Beeswax, one of the natural miracles produced by bees, has found its place in many areas of human life for thousands of years. This valuable natural material stands out not only for lighting purposes but also for its protective and healing properties. This substance, the building block of hives, is processed and used in a wide range from cosmetics to wood care. However, it is often confused with paraffin, a common synthetic alternative. The structures, origins, and behaviors during use of these two substances are fundamentally different. Distinguishing the natural from the synthetic is important for both health and quality of use.
What is Beeswax?
Beeswax is a natural substance produced by honey bees (specifically the Apis mellifera species) to build their honeycombs. They use it to structure their hives. It is secreted from special glands on the bees’ abdomens. This natural polymer protects the hive’s internal structure, stores honey, and provides a safe environment for larvae to grow.
The beeswax production process (wax glands)
The production of this natural product is part of the complex division of labor within the bee colony. This task is usually undertaken by young worker bees. Between approximately the 12th and 18th days of their lives, the four pairs of special wax glands located on the underside of these bees’ abdomens reach their peak development. To produce wax, bees need a high amount of energy, namely honey. The sugar in the honey they consume is transported to the wax glands through a metabolic process. Here, it is converted into complex fatty acids and esters.
These glands secrete the substance in liquid form. The secretion quickly solidifies upon contact with air, turning into small, translucent flakes. These flakes emerge from between the bee’s abdominal segments. The bee catches these wax flakes using its hind legs and carries them to its mandibles. Here, it chews the flakes, mixing them with jaw secretions to soften them and make them workable. This process gives the material its flexibility and stickiness. This prepared substance is then used in the construction of honeycomb cells. This process is a very costly investment for the colony. It is estimated that bees must consume 6 to 8 kg of honey to produce approximately 1 kg of beeswax.
Properties of Beeswax
This natural substance has its own unique physical and chemical properties. These qualities distinguish it from other types of wax. Its melting point, hardness, and specific gravity are within certain standards. Chemically, it has a complex structure. It consists mostly of esters, hydrocarbons, and free fatty acids. This composition gives it a protective and flexible structure.
Physical parameters: melting point, hardness, specific gravity
The physical properties of pure beeswax determine its purity and quality, offering important clues. One of its most distinctive features is its melting point. The natural product has a higher melting temperature than other waxes like paraffin. It generally melts within a narrow range between 62 °C and 65 °C. This high melting point allows these candles to burn more slowly.
In terms of hardness, beeswax is solid and firm at room temperature, but it is not brittle. Unlike paraffin, it is considered a more flexible material. It softens easily with body heat (e.g., when kneaded in the hand) and takes on a sticky consistency. When it cools, it hardens again. Its specific gravity is lower than water, with a density of approximately 0.95 to 0.97. This causes the product to float in water. Its color varies depending on the pollen and propolis collected by the bees, ranging from light yellow to dark brown. It has a characteristic honey aroma.
Chemical composition: esters, hydrocarbons, acids/alcohols
This natural substance is not a chemically simple product. It is a complex mixture of hundreds of different compounds. This composition can show slight variations depending on the bee’s genetics, the flora it feeds on, and the geographical region. Its main components are fatty acid esters. This group makes up about 70% to 75% of the total mass. These esters are formed by the combination of long-chain alcohols and long-chain fatty acids.
The second largest group is hydrocarbons (approximately 10-15%). These compounds are largely responsible for the material’s water-repellent (hydrophobic) property, protecting the hive against moisture. The remaining portion consists of free fatty acids (approximately 10-15%), free alcohols, and other minor compounds. The free acids help the product function as an emulsifier (mixing agent), especially in cosmetic formulations. This complex chemical structure gives this natural wax its unique protective, moisturizing, and flexible properties.
Uses of Beeswax
This bee product is valued in a wide variety of industries thanks to its unique structure. It has water-repellent, protective, and flexible properties. This makes it a sought-after ingredient in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products (creams, ointments). It is also used for the care of natural materials such as wood and leather. It is used as a traditional and effective surface coating material for their protection.
Cosmetic–pharmaceutical and surface/wood coating applications
One of the most common areas where this substance is used is the cosmetics industry. Its ability to form a protective barrier on the skin makes it an ideal ingredient for lip balms, lotions, and cold creams. This barrier helps to lock in the skin’s moisture (humectant) while also providing protection against external factors. It is preferred because it does not clog pores (non-comedogenic). It is also used as a natural stabilizer to add consistency and solidity to products.
In the pharmaceutical field, it is found in some drug coatings. It is a basic component of ointments. Its healing properties and stable structure make it suitable for dermatological preparations. In the food industry, it is approved as a food additive with the code E901. It is used especially for polishing the surface of candies or fruits. It is used as a coating agent to extend shelf life.
Natural beeswax is also a traditional solution for wood care and preservation. When applied to wooden surfaces, it allows the wood to breathe. It forms a natural polish layer that protects it against moisture and dirt. It is particularly used in the care of cutting boards, wooden furniture, and leather goods (shoes, bags). It is preferred for providing water resistance and shine.
Making candles with beeswax
Making candles at home with natural beeswax is an enjoyable and healthy alternative. Unlike paraffin, these candles burn cleaner. They do not produce soot. They release a light honey scent into the air. The process requires melting the bee product at the correct temperature, preparing the wick, and a careful pouring process. The ratio of materials and heat control directly affect the candle’s quality.
Required materials and ratios
The basic materials for making natural candles are; pure beeswax (in block, granule, or pellet form), a cotton wick of appropriate thickness for the candle’s diameter, a wick holder (metal tab or wooden stick) to keep the wick centered, and a heat-resistant pouring container (glass jar or mold). A double boiler system (bain-marie method) is essential for the melting process.
The ratios are determined by the volume of the container. For example, about 0.25 kg of solid beeswax, when melted, can fill a medium-sized jar. The most critical choice is the wick thickness. The diameter of the candle determines how thick the wick needs to be. For instance, a jar with a 5-6 cm diameter may require a medium-thickness (approx. 12-15 ply) cotton wick. A wick that is too thin causes tunneling, where only the center melts. A wick that is too thick leads to an excessively large flame and smoke.
Heating, pouring, and wick placement
The process begins with preparing the wick. The wick must be secured to the bottom of the pouring container or mold (e.g., with a metal holder). It should be held taut exactly in the center from the top using a stick or clothespin. Beeswax should never be placed directly over a flame. This ruins its structure and poses a fire risk. Instead, the beeswax is placed in a container. This container is placed inside a larger pot containing hot water (bain-marie method). As the water boils, the beeswax slowly melts.
This natural product begins to melt around 62-65 °C. After it becomes completely liquid, the temperature can be allowed to reach the 70 °C to 75 °C range for pouring. This temperature ensures a smoother pour. The liquid material is slowly poured around the wick. Natural wax is a material that shrinks as it cools. Therefore, it is normal for a depression or cavity to form in the center of the candle. To fix this depression, a second thin layer is usually poured just before the candle fully sets (or after it has set, by poking a few holes).
Paraffin: definition and production
Unlike the natural origin of beeswax, paraffin is a byproduct of petroleum refining processes. This substance, derived from crude oil, is a mixture of hydrocarbons. It is typically a white, odorless, and tasteless solid. There are various types with different melting points and crystal structures, which can be solid, liquid, or microcrystalline.
Sources/history and types (solid, liquid, microcrystalline)
Paraffin is a byproduct obtained during the distillation of crude oil. Historically, it became widespread with the rise of the petroleum industry in the 19th century. It replaced animal fats (tallow) in candle production. Paraffin primarily consists of saturated hydrocarbon molecules (alkanes). Various types are available depending on different processing methods.
Solid Paraffin (Paraffin Wax): This is the most common type. It has a distinct crystal structure. It is hard and brittle. It is used in standard candle making, coatings, and packaging. Liquid Paraffin (Mineral Oil): This is the form that is liquid at room temperature. It is known as “mineral oil” in cosmetics. It is used in baby oils and moisturizers. Microcrystalline Paraffin: It has more complex, branched hydrocarbon chains. It has smaller crystals. This structure gives it more flexibility, adhesiveness, and a higher melting point (usually over 70 °C). It is used in food coatings and cosmetics.
Refining–purification; crystallization and molding
The production process for paraffin begins with the distillation of crude oil in refineries. In this process, petroleum is separated into its components (fractions) with different boiling points. Paraffin is found within the lubricating oil (lube oil) fraction. A process called “dewaxing” is applied to separate the paraffin from this fraction. In this process, the oily mixture is cooled. At low temperatures, the paraffin crystals solidify, while the oil remains liquid.
These crystals are then separated using solvents (such as Methyl Ethyl Keton – MEK). Mechanical separation from the liquid oil is also performed (solvent dewaxing). The resulting crude paraffin (slack wax) still contains some oil and is colored. To increase the purity of this crude paraffin, advanced purification methods like “hydrotreating” are used. In this stage, hydrogen is used under high pressure. Sulfur, nitrogen, and potentially harmful aromatic compounds (like benzene) are removed. Highly purified (“food grade” or “cosmetic grade”) paraffin is obtained. Finally, the liquid paraffin is poured into molds and solidified into blocks or pellets.
Beeswax vs. paraffin differences
The fundamental differences between the two waxes stem from their origin, burning behavior, and potential health effects. Natural beeswax burns slower, cleaner, and without producing soot. Petroleum-derived paraffin can burn faster and may release volatile organic compounds during combustion. Their melting points are also an important physical property that distinguishes these two substances.
Burn time, soot/odor behavior
The most obvious difference is the burning behavior. The natural product has a higher melting point compared to paraffin (Beeswax 62-65 °C; Paraffin 50-60 °C). This means the natural product is denser and harder. As a result, beeswax candles burn much slower. The burn time of a natural candle of the same size can be 1.5 to 2 times longer than a paraffin candle.
When beeswax burns, it produces almost no soot (carbon). Its flame is bright and calm. It releases a light, natural honey scent into the air. Paraffin candles, especially low-quality ones, can produce visible soot while burning, including those with synthetic fragrances. Due to paraffin’s petroleum origin, there are concerns that it carries the potential to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as benzene and toluene, into enclosed spaces during combustion.
Melting point and potential health effects
As previously mentioned, their melting point ranges are different. Beeswax melts between 62 °C and 65 °C. Standard candle paraffin generally melts between 50 °C and 60 °C. This difference directly affects the durability and burning speed of the candles.
In terms of health effects, beeswax is generally considered hypoallergenic because it is a natural product. It is often seen as a safer option for people with asthma or chemical sensitivities. Paraffin, when highly purified (food or cosmetic grade), is considered safe for use. However, the VOC emissions during combustion are noted by some experts as a concern for indoor air quality. Low-quality or insufficiently purified paraffin may contain chemicals of concern.
Distinguishing beeswax–paraffin at home
There are simple tests for consumers to distinguish pure beeswax from petroleum-derived paraffin. These two substances show distinct differences in smell, texture, and consistency. Additionally, cutting, burning (soot), and flexibility tests are also helpful. They offer practical tips for understanding whether the material is natural or synthetic.
Smell, consistency, and touch tests
The easiest way to differentiate is by smell. Pure beeswax has a distinct, sweet honey and propolis scent, even when cold. When heated or burned, this scent becomes even richer. Paraffin is generally odorless. Sometimes, a faint petroleum or chemical smell can be detected. Paraffin candles sold on the market usually smell of added synthetic fragrances used to mask any odor.
The touch test is also important. Natural beeswax is hard at room temperature, but it leaves a sticky feeling when scratched with a fingernail. It is difficult to clean the material from under the nail. When rubbed in the palm, it softens slightly with body heat. Paraffin, on the other hand, is more glassy, oily, and brittle. When scratched with a fingernail, it easily crumbles or flakes off like powder. It does not feel sticky.
Cutting/shavings and soot test
Trying to cut the two materials with a knife clearly reveals the difference. Beeswax, due to its flexible nature, curls into a roll when cut or shaved. It produces flexible shavings. It does not break or shatter. Paraffin, however, is hard and brittle. When one tries to cut it, it cracks, breaks, or crumbles like powder.
Finally, burning a small piece (soot test) is a good indicator. When a piece of beeswax is burned, it burns with a clean flame. It does not leave significant soot (carbon). When extinguished, its smoke is white. When paraffin is burned, black soot accumulation is much more likely on the tip of the flame and in the smoke produced, especially when extinguished. This soot consists of carbon particles resulting from the incomplete combustion of paraffin.
Warning/Note: This text is for general informational purposes; it is not medical advice for personal health conditions, expert opinion is required.
