Gel wax is one of the most attractive and popular types of wax for candle makers looking to add a transparent and innovative touch to their products. This wax is unique in its ability to remain transparent while burning, allowing you to see any embellishments inside the candle, such as shells, flowers, or small stones, creating a stunning artistic effect.

What is gel wax?

Gel wax is a jelly-like wax made from a mixture of mineral oils and resinous ingredients. Its transparency allows for the creation of unique and attractive designs when decorative elements are added inside the candle.

Advantages of gel wax

1. High transparency : The main feature of gel wax is its superior transparency, which allows decorative elements placed inside it to be highlighted, such as dried flowers, seashells, or colored stones.
2. Longer burning time : Due to its high density, gel wax burns more slowly than other types of candles, making it economical and ideal for long-term use.
3. Limitless creativity : Gel wax allows for the creation of creative and unique designs, where a variety of colors and decorative elements can be added.

Uses of gel wax in candle making

• Decorative candles : Gel wax is mainly used in decorative candles thanks to its transparency, which allows the decorations submerged inside the candle to be highlighted.
• Scented candles : Essential oils can be added to gel wax to create scented candles that combine beauty and fragrance.
• Container candles : Gel wax is usually used in candles that are poured into clear glass containers, where users can see the beautiful designs inside the candle.

Steps for making candles using gel wax

1. Melting the wax : The gel wax is melted at a low temperature (around 90-95 degrees Celsius) to ensure that it does not burn or change color.
2. Adding color and fragrance : Colors or essential oils can be added as desired. Oil-based paints are preferred to avoid separating the colors from the wax.
3. Wax pouring : The melted gel wax is poured into clear glass containers, and decorations such as shells or flowers can be placed before or during the pouring.
4. Allow the wax to cool : The wax should be left to cool slowly until it hardens evenly.

Tips for using gel wax

• Wick selection : Due to the density of the gel wax, it is preferable to use wicks with a larger diameter to ensure even and good burning.
• Adding essential oils : Avoid adding too much essential oil, as excessive use may affect the transparency of the wax.
• Interior decoration : Elements such as stones, shells, or plastic ornaments can be added to create unique designs, but you must ensure that no flammable materials are used inside the candle.

Comparing gel wax to other candles

• Transparency : Unlike soy wax or palm wax, gel wax has the ability to remain transparent even after the addition of colors or decorative elements.
• Burning time : Gel candles burn more slowly than most other types of candles due to their high density, which makes them last longer.
• Visual appeal : Gel candles are considered among the most aesthetically appealing candles, due to the great potential for decoration and creative design.