Gel Candle Wax Is Different Than Hard Wax

A majority of candles today are made out of a petroleum-based wax called paraffin because it is inexpensive and easy to get. This wax is generally off-white in color and can be dyed fairly easily, but the colors generally end up being dull and opaque. Gel candles, on the other hand, are made of a mixture of processed mineral oils and a gelling agent, which together create a wax that is completely clear and rubbery and can easily be dyed to any color you wish.

Gel wax can be difficult to work with because it has a higher melting point than most waxes and the temperature must be watched very carefully as the wax is heated.

Gel wax can be explosive if it reaches its flash point, which means making gel candles can be dangerous if you are not careful.

The best way to make gel candles is to heat the wax slowly, raising the temperature only very gradually. This way, you will not reach the flashpoint too quickly and you will also have fewer bubbles in your wax.