Here are the major differences between the two types of wax:
Paraffin Wax
- Discovered in 1850
- A natural product derived from the components of decayed animal and plant material
- Made by removing the waxy substance from crude oil
- Most popular kind of wax used in candle making
- Easy to use
- Non-toxic, colorless, clean-burning fuel
- Has a clearly defined large crystal structure and a melting point usually between 120-160°F
- Tends to be hard and brittle
Soy Wax
- Discovered in 1991 as an alternative to paraffin wax
- Natural, renewable, non-toxic and biodegradable
- Hydrogenated form of soybean oil
- Available in flake form and has an off-white appearance
- Has a lower melting point than paraffin
- Commercial soy wax blends tend to be softer than paraffin and will melt in warm weather
- Burns longer and at a cooler temperature than paraffin wax