Types of Waxes that we deal with
At Crafts by Sujatha, we work with a variety of waxes each with its own advantages, limitations, and suitability depending on climate, usage, and customer preference. While there are plenty of articles online discussing candle waxes, most are written from a Western perspective. India’s unique environment open ventilation, high temperatures in summer, and diverse cultural practices changes how these waxes perform and how customers experience them.
Let’s take a closer look:
1. Fully Refined Paraffin Wax
Global Perception:
In the West, paraffin wax often gets labeled as harmful, especially when used with fragrance oils in air-conditioned or tightly closed rooms. This is because ventilation is minimal in colder climates.
Indian Context:
In India, our lifestyle naturally encourages open doors and windows, which allows for far better air circulation. With proper ventilation, paraffin wax candles are not as concerning, especially when used occasionally.
Advantages:
- Holds fragrance very well, making it suitable for scented candles.
- Cost-effective compared to natural waxes.
- Provides a clean, smooth finish.
Considerations:
- Still petroleum-derived, so not considered eco-friendly.
- Works best in well-ventilated spaces (which is common in India).
2. Soy Wax
Indian Context:
Soy wax is popular worldwide for being natural and renewable. However, in India, shipping and storage during summers (with temperatures crossing 45°C) can cause issues—pure soy wax softens and may turn semi-solid in transit.
Advantages:
- Natural and biodegradable.
- Burns slower, giving longer candle life.
- Works beautifully with essential oils for gentle, natural aromas.
Considerations:
- Very soft in texture, not ideal for intricate designs or tall pillars in hot weather.
- Higher cost than paraffin.
- Shipping in peak summer needs extra care.
3. Soy Wax Blends
Why Blends Work in India:
By mixing soy with harder waxes (like paraffin or coconut), we get candles that balance the eco-friendly appeal of soy with the stability needed for India’s climate.
Advantages:
- Better structure than pure soy.
- Reduced risk of melting during transit.
- Longer burn time than paraffin alone.
Considerations:
- Slightly higher in cost than paraffin, but more affordable than pure soy.
4. Coconut Wax
Indian Context:
Made from coconut oil, this wax is becoming increasingly popular in premium candles. It is soft, creamy, and blends well with other waxes.
Advantages:
- Excellent for luxury candles.
- Burns cleanly with great fragrance throw.
- Pairs beautifully with natural essential oils.
Considerations:
- Very soft in hot climates—rarely used alone.
- Relatively expensive.
5. Beeswax
Traditional & Premium Choice:
Beeswax has been used in India for centuries in lamps and rituals. It is naturally aromatic (with a honey-like scent) and highly sustainable.
Advantages:
- 100% natural and eco-friendly.
- Long burn time with minimal smoke.
- Naturally releases negative ions that help neutralize indoor pollutants.
Considerations:
- Higher cost compared to soy or paraffin.
- Limited availability in large volumes in India.
6. Palm Wax
Indian Context:
Palm wax gives a beautiful crystalline or feathered finish, making it popular for decorative candles. However, sourcing sustainable palm wax is important to avoid environmental concerns.
Advantages:
- Hard wax, ideal for tropical climates.
- Holds shape well, even in hot weather.
- Creates unique textures naturally.
Considerations:
- Must be sourced responsibly (RSPO certified preferred).
- Moderate cost, higher than paraffin but lower than beeswax.
7. Gel Wax
Indian Context:
Gel candles are loved for their transparent, glass-like look—often decorated with shells, glitter, or colored embeds. In India, they’re mainly used for décor and gifting rather than daily burning.
Advantages:
- Unique aesthetic appeal (see-through effect).
- Burns longer than paraffin when used correctly.
- Great for creative, customized designs.
Considerations:
- Not suitable for very hot climates if left outside (can soften).
- Needs to be container-based, as gel does not hold shape alone.
- Moderate cost, depending on purity and fragrance load.
We’ve prepared a detailed candle wax guide (with pros, cons, and Indian context for each type) that we share with our customers to help them make the best choice.
👉 Reach out to us and we’ll be happy to share it with you!
