South African Candle Wax – A Comprehensive Guide

Candles have been a source of light and warmth  for centuries. But beyond their aesthetic appeal, the material they are made from plays a crucial role in their burn time, scent throw, and overall performance. Candle wax is the primary ingredient in candles. With so many options available, it’s essential to understand the different types of wax available in South Africa. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various types of candle wax, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

1. Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax is one of the most common types of wax used in candles worldwide, and South Africa is no exception. Produced as a byproduct of crude oil refining, paraffin wax is a cost-effective and versatile wax.   There are two types of paraffin wax:  semi-refined and fully refined.

Semi-refined paraffin wax has a higher oil content, a lower melting point and sometimes yellows.  It is not the best choice for making quality candles.

Fully refined paraffin wax on the other hand, has a relatively low oil content, melting point is typically 58/60 ⁰C and it does not yellow.  This candle wax is the best choice for making quality moulded candles.

Pros:

• Affordable and readily available
• Provides an excellent scent throw, making it ideal for scented candles
• Clean burn when used properly
• Odourless
• Excellent scent throw

Cons:

• Non-renewable and a byproduct of crude oil refining
• Emits a small amount of soot when burned

Paraffin wax remains a popular choice in South Africa for making candles due to its affordability and outstanding performance.

2. Locally Produced Fischer-Tropsch Waxes

IW3F and M3B

Sasol produces Fischer-Tropsch waxes, including IW3F and M3B, in South Africa. These synthetic waxes are derived through the Fischer-Tropsch process, which converts natural gas into liquid hydrocarbons. They are highly regarded in candle making for their exceptional quality and unique properties.

IW3F is a versatile Fischer-Tropsch wax known for its solid, milk-white colour and high gloss finish. It provides excellent rigidity and is our top recommendation for making moulded candles in silicone candle moulds.

M3B is another Fischer-Tropsch wax with a solid milky white colour.  We at Candle Deli do not rate this candle wax highly as it shrinks more than any other wax we’ve tested. M3B, like IW3F,  produces candles that burn cleanly and with minimal soot, while also delivering a smooth, glossy finish.

Pros:

• Produced by Sasol, proudly South African
• High purity and good performance in candle-making
• Low soot emissions and clean burn
• Solid milk-white colour
• Good scent throw

Cons:

• Can be more expensive than fully refined paraffin wax

Fischer-Tropsch waxes like IW3F and M3B are an excellent choice for those using silicone moulds.  They are ideal for making white and pastel coloured candles.

3. Soy Wax

Soy wax is a plant-based alternative to paraffin wax and has gained popularity globally, including in South Africa, due to highly effective marketing campaigns. Made from hydrogenated soybean oil, soy wax is biodegradable.

This wax burns at a considerably lower temperature than paraffin wax, making it the best choice for massage candles.  Soy wax has a high oil content and a low melt point which means it can’t be moulded.  Use this wax in containers only.

Pros:

• Renewable resource
• Easy to fragrance
• Low melting point
• Can be blended with other cosmetic butters, e.g. cocoa butter or shea butter

Cons:

• Considerably more expensive than paraffin wax and Sasol Fischer-Tropsch waxes
• Softer texture and high content, so cannot be moulded

Soy wax is often favoured by those who like its creamy colour and soft, lotion-like quality.  It’s commonly used in massage candles, wax melts and wax tarts.

4. Beeswax

Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees, and it has been used for centuries in candle-making. It is a premium option that burns longer and cleaner than both paraffin wax and soy wax.

Pros:

• 100% natural
• Long burn time
• Pleasant, natural honey scent

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other candle waxes
• Seasonal availability

For those seeking high quality, natural candles, beeswax is an excellent option.

5. Palm Wax

Palm wax is another plant-based alternative to paraffin and is made from the oil of palm fruits. In South Africa, palm wax is often used for making textured and decorative candles due to its ability to crystallize when cooled.

Pros:

• Harder wax, ideal for pillar candles
• Unique crystalline texture that adds visual appeal

Cons:

• Controversial due to deforestation concerns and environmental impact
• More expensive than paraffin wax

Candle Deli does not supply palm wax as the environmental impact in its production is inexcusable (in our opinion).

6. Coconut Wax

Coconut wax is made from the meat of coconuts and has recently emerged as a luxury option for candle makers. Though less common in South Africa, coconut wax is gaining traction.

Pros:

• Biodegradable and sustainable
• Burns slowly and cleanly
• Excellent scent throw

Cons:

• Expensive
• Soft wax, making it a less practical choice

Coconut wax is perfect for those who are willing to pay a premium for a soft wax.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Wax for Your Candles

When selecting a candle wax, it’s important to consider your priorities—whether that’s cost, scent throw, melt point, or the aesthetics of the candle. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• For a budget-friendly option: Paraffin wax is the most affordable and readily available.
• For a natural, eco-friendly candle: Beeswax is the best choice.
• For massage candles: Soy wax is ideal.
• For decorative moulded candles: IW3F is the best choice for silicone candle moulds;  paraffin wax is the best choice for textured candles.
• For high-performance, high gloss white candles: Fischer-Tropsch waxes, particularly IW3F, is an excellent choice.

In South Africa, the market for candles is expanding, and with it, the variety of waxes available. Whether you’re making your own candles or simply looking for the perfect candle to burn in your home, understanding the different types of wax can help you make an informed decision. Choose a wax that suits your needs, and enjoy the warm glow and soothing atmosphere that candles bring to any space.