The Magical Liquid Behind Liquid Candles

Candles are a leading cause of residential fires, with almost 10% of civilian injuries and 6% of fire-related deaths attributed to them. Liquid candles, on the other hand, are made from liquid paraffin, a byproduct of petroleum refining. They are also known as oil candles and are made of tough plastic with a metal wick holder. The fuel is combustible and contained, so it never comes into contact with the skin. Liquid candles can be refillable, and they burn with or without fragrance.

Liquid paraffin

In addition to its medicinal applications, liquid paraffin serves as a release agent, binder, or lubricant for capsules and tablets. It is a hydrating and cleansing agent, making it a popular ingredient in cosmetics, skincare, and hair products. It is also found in after-wax wipes and can be used as a candle lamp oil.

When purchasing liquid paraffin, it is available at various price points, with packs of six ranging from $16.99 to $20.99 on Amazon. It is important to note that if liquid paraffin is ingested and enters the lungs, it can cause lipoid pneumonia.

Vegetable wax

Palm wax is a type of vegetable wax that can be used to make candles. It is a sustainable and eco-friendly option, and it develops an interesting crystalline structure as it burns, adding to the beauty of the candle. To make palm wax candles, you will need essential oils for scent, eco-friendly dye for colour, a container to melt the wax, a pot, a candy thermometer, prepared wicks, small sticks or skewers to hold the wicks in place, and empty candle containers.

First, poke holes around the wick with a skewer. Then, pour the scented, dyed wax into your containers, leaving about half an inch of room at the top. Let the candles cool completely for at least four to six hours, then cut the wicks to about a quarter of an inch before lighting.

Synthetic wax

The development of synthetic waxes has allowed for the creation of specialty candles. These waxes are usually chemically synthesized and include gels. They were first developed in the latter half of the 20th century. Synthetic waxes are made from a variety of raw materials, including skin fat, bone fat, fish oil, and industrial greases. They can also be derived from petroleum, as is the case with paraffin wax, which is the most commonly used candle wax today.

When choosing a candle, it is important to consider the type of wax used. Those who prioritize eco-friendliness may opt for vegetable-based waxes or natural alternatives like beeswax, which has been used for centuries. However, synthetic waxes still dominate the market, with paraffin wax being the most prevalent, and stearin wax, derived from animal fatty acids, being widely used in Europe.

Traditional materials

Traditional candles are made from wax and a wick. The wax is typically derived from petroleum, in the form of paraffin wax, or from bees, in the form of beeswax. Other traditional wax sources include plants, such as palm, carnauba, bayberry, soybean, and, in the Far East, stillingia and Japan wax from plants, as well as Chinese wax produced from insects. Animal fats, such as skin fat, bone fat, and fish oil, have also been used as candle wax, as have industrial greases.

The wick is typically made from braided cotton, though it can also be made from other materials, such as string or cord. The wick is crucial to the candle's burning process, drawing up ("wicking") the melted wax or fuel to the flame through capillary action. Important characteristics of the wick include diameter, stiffness, fire resistance, and tethering.

The size of the flame and the corresponding rate of burning are largely controlled by the candle wick. The type of wax also affects the burn rate, with beeswax and coconut wax burning more slowly than paraffin or soy wax. Traditional methods of candle production involve melting the solid fuel by applying controlled heat. The liquid is then poured into a mould, or a wick is repeatedly immersed in the liquid to create a dipped tapered candle.

Candles made with synthetic waxes tend to contain more chemical ingredients, resulting in increased soot production and potentially toxic emissions. Vegetable wax is an alternative to animal wax and can be made from plant-based oils. Some vegetable waxes contain stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid found in some plants and animals. However, the stearic acid in vegetable wax does not come from animals.

Safety considerations

Candles are a leading cause of residential fires, with almost 10% of civilian injuries and 6% of fire-related fatalities attributed to candles, according to the National Fire Protection Association. As such, there are several safety considerations to keep in mind when using liquid candles.

Firstly, liquid wax candles are made of tough plastic with a metal wick holder, and the fuel is combustible. It is important to ensure that the wick is properly trimmed, as a longer flame can emit soot and increase the risk of fire. Proper wick trimming will reduce soot emissions and improve the burning characteristics of the candle. Additionally, the wick should be made of fire-resistant material, such as cotton, to prevent it from burning too quickly or dripping.

Secondly, liquid wax candles should be handled with care to avoid spills. While liquid paraffin spills from candles like Lucid Candles will not stain or damage textiles or furnishings and can be easily cleaned up, the liquid wax from traditional candles can be hot and cause skin burns. It is important to use a candle snuffer, typically a small metal cup on a long handle, to extinguish the flame instead of blowing on it directly. This prevents splashed wax and potential burns.

Furthermore, the ingredients of the candle wax should be considered. Candles made with synthetic waxes often contain more chemicals, leading to increased soot production and potentially toxic emissions. It is recommended to opt for clean-burning candles made from toxin-free ingredients, such as soy wax or vegetable wax, which produce minimal soot and are non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free. Checking the ingredient lists on products can help ensure they align with your priorities and safety concerns.

Lastly, it is important to keep candles away from flammable materials and surfaces. Using a candleholder or shade, such as those made of borosilicate or soda glass, can protect the flame and prevent accidental fires. Proper ventilation should also be maintained when burning liquid candles to avoid a buildup of combustible gases or excessive soot.

Frequently asked questions