Paraffin Wax for Candles: Which Type to Choose and How to Use It
Paraffin is a refined mineral wax that melts, moulds and takes fragrance easily, which is why it remains the base of most candles. What changes between grades is the melting point: it sets the hardness of the candle, its finish and the technique it suits best.
Which melting point do you need?
| Paraffin | Melting point | Main use |
|---|---|---|
| Paraffin 48-50 | 48-50 °C | 5 kg slabs; melts at low temperature. Blends and uses where hardness is not needed. |
| Paraffin 56-58 | 56-58 °C | General-purpose grade: container, carved candles and blends. |
| Paraffin powder 56-58 | 56-58 °C | Same base as powder: easier to weigh and melt. |
| Paraffin 62-64 | 62-64 °C | Moulded decorative candles: hard, smooth, opaque finish. |
| Paraffin 64-66 | 64-66 °C | Highest melting point in the range; suited to lantern candles made by the pour-out technique. |
| Paraffin pearls | 60-63 °C | Pearl format: dose it without breaking slabs. |
What is paraffin wax used for?
In candle making: container, moulded and carved candles, lantern candles, birthday and church candles. Outside candles, low-melting grades (48-50 °C) are also used in thermotherapy and hand treatments; Naturcera offers dedicated rehabilitation paraffin and hand paraffin.
Choosing by candle type
Container candle
A mid melting point such as 56-58 usually adheres well to the jar. Set the wick through burn tests, not only the manufacturer's chart.
Moulded or decorative candle
A high melting point (62-64 or 64-66) gives a harder candle that releases better from the mould, with a smoother surface.
Lantern candle
Lanterns are made by the pour-out technique and call for the highest melting point, 64-66.
How to work with it
- Melt in a double boiler or a melter with temperature control, never over direct heat.
- Add fragrance and dye once the wax is melted and a little below its maximum temperature. Check the fragrance sheet for load and addition temperature.
- Pour slowly and let it cool away from drafts to avoid cracks and marks.
- Always make a test candle before producing in series.
If you manufacture in volume
Grades are sold by the kilo, in formats from 5 kg up to 100 kg or more depending on the type. If you produce for a brand or for resale, get in touch and we will help you pick the paraffin and format.
FAQ
What is the difference between paraffin 56-58 and 62-64?
The melting point. 62-64 gives a harder, more opaque candle meant for moulded work; 56-58 is more versatile and used for container and carved candles.
Can I blend paraffin with soy wax?
Yes, it is common practice, but it changes burn and scent behaviour, so test the ratio.
Is powdered paraffin different from slabs?
Powdered paraffin 56-58 has the same melting point; only the format changes, making it easier to weigh and melt.
Can candle paraffin be used for hand treatments?
Do not mix uses: for cosmetic and thermotherapy applications, use the dedicated grades.
