Candle Wax Types Compared:
Soy, Paraffin, Beeswax & Coconut
Published on March 29, 2026 • By the MakerRatio Candle Artisan Team
Interactive Wax & Fragrance Calculator
Select container presets, choose your wax type, and calculate dry wax flakes and fragrance oil ratios with exact metrics.
Choosing the right wax formulation dictates the safety, scent dispersion (throw), and aesthetic appeal of your container candles. Different waxes melt and set at distinct temperatures, hold fragrance oils differently, and have varying volumetric densities.
1. Soy Wax (Golden Wax 464, EcoSoya)
Soy wax is made from hydrogenated soybean oil. It is highly popular among craft businesses due to its natural, eco-friendly marketing appeal, clean burn, and slow burn rate.
- Pros: Slow burning, eco-friendly, biodegradable, water-soluble cleanup.
- Cons: Frosting (white crystallization), shrinkage lines, weaker cold scent throw than paraffin.
- Density: ~0.86 g/ml. Requires specific wick calibration to prevent tunneling.
2. Paraffin Wax (IGI 6006)
Paraffin is a byproduct of petroleum refining. It is the industry standard for commercial candles because it has a high fragrance oil capacity and releases scent exceptionally well.
- Pros: High hot-scent throw, smooth tops, vibrant dye absorption.
- Cons: Non-renewable resource, soot release if the wick is not trimmed.
- Density: ~0.90 g/ml. Cures faster than soy.
3. Beeswax (Yellow & White)
Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees. It has a high melting point (144-147°F) and burns extremely clean while emitting a light, honey-like aroma.
- Pros: Long burn time, natural air purifier, honey scent.
- Cons: Expensive, holds fragrance poorly, requires very thick wicks due to high viscosity.
- Density: ~0.96 g/ml.