What is Candelilla wax?
Candelilla wax is a vegan product derived from the Candelilla plant. The wax is produced by boiling the leaves of the plant in an acidic solution, which causes the leaves to secrete the wax, which can then be collected once it floats to the top. The Candelilla plant is native to Northern Mexico and Southwestern parts of the United States. This plant was initially used to produce the first candles, hence the name Candela which means “little candle.” Exploiting the candelilla plant for wax has been going on since the start of the 20th century, becoming an important economic activity in the Mexican region of the Chihuahuan desert.
Candelilla wax has similar properties to beeswax, with some important differences. While beeswax is secreted by honeybees, Candelelia is vegan. In addition, Candelelia is harder, unscented and faster to melt at high temperatures. It is a good option for those wanting to create an unscented DIY product or mix in a fragrance of their choice.