Introduction
One might be surprised to learn that the global candle market size was valued at USD 8.4 billion in 2024[1]. Since its earliest use by the ancient Egyptians by soaking the core of reeds in melted animal fats, the use of candles has evolved immensely to the present day. Palm oil too, has been contributing to the booming use of candles that are currently associated with celebrations, love, harmony and self-care.
North America is the largest consumer of candles worldwide, with as much as 40% of the global market share. This is also associated with the holidays such as Christmas, in which the candles are heavily used not only at home as home decor, but also as gifts.
The European follows with 30% of the global market share. This region was also found to have a high demand for eco-friendly candles, particularly in Germany, the UK and France. The European Candle Manufacturers Association published in a report that each citizen of the European Union consumed an average of 1.69 kg of candles in 2023 alone. According to a survey by the Association of European Candle Makers, it was found that half of the people in the surveyed European markets use candles at least once a week, with women using them more frequently than men (52% vs. 43%)[2].
Asia is also earmarked as the fastest-growing region for candles with rising disposable income in China, India and Japan.
Global Growth Driver of Candle Use
The global candle market is experiencing robust growth, propelled by growing consumer interest in home fragrances, aromatherapy, and decorative lighting. As a key candle ingredient, palm oil is favoured for its cost efficiency, superior burning properties, and versatility.
i. Rising consumer interest in home fragrances
The growing trend of home decoration and the desire for pleasant living environments drive the demand for scented and decorative candles. As consumers have been focusing on elevating their home ambience, the popularity of candles, particularly those infused with therapeutic essential oils, has significantly increased.
ii. Seasonal and festive demand
Candle sales peak during winter months and festive seasons like Christmas and Diwali, as they are popular gifts and decorative items. About 35% of candle sales happen during the holiday season, emphasizing the role of ambience in consumer choices[3].
iii. The Rise in Self-Care Routines
This is also associated with the boom of the wellness industry. Over 60% of consumers associate scented candles with mental well-being and stress reduction, according to a survey by the American Psychological Association[4]. The use of essential oils in scented candles provides the same therapeutic benefits as traditional aromatherapy methods. The soothing glow and pleasant fragrances of candles enhance relaxation and create a calming environment, and very valuable among consumers who want to seek refuge from their hectic and stressful lifestyles.
iv. Sustainability preference
Consumers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly products, leading to a higher demand for candles made from natural waxes like palm, soy, and beeswax. Palm oil sourced from Malaysia is certified to be sustainably sourced, with the assurance by the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO). Consumers can enjoy their candles with confidence that their ingredients have not been tainted by deforestation and forced labour. The quality of the palm oil ingredients is also high and the candles are therefore safe for use at home.
v. Premium candle
Luxurious and premium candles have also been an increasingly popular option for consumers. Artisan and luxury perfumes constantly extend their product range, and it is no longer limited to lotions and creams. Scented candles, inspired by classic and luxurious perfumes are getting increasingly popular and there is a niche market for these premium candles.
Palm Oil as a Key Ingredient Candle-Making
Several key ingredients of candles are derived from palm oil. Each ingredient contributes to a unique feature that adds value to the candle processing. Palm oil is a preferred ingredient as it is natural, and plant-based. Palm oil properties help to solidify candle wax, making it firmer and less prone to deformation, particularly in warmer climates.
Palm Stearin
Palm stearin is the solid fraction of palm oil. It is often used as a primary hard in making candles. This is due to its stable properties in high temperatures, with a melting point of 55 to 65°C. The crystalline structure of palm stearin is also an additional property that is valuable in candles by providing firmness and rigidity to the candle.
Palm Kernel Stearin
Palm kernel stearin is also a common ingredient for candles as it is even firmer than palm stearin. Its firmness and stability are very suitable for candles, and it is also often blended with other waxes to adjust the melting properties.
Fatty Alcohols And Acids
Fatty alcohols and acids derived from palm oil such as stearic acid and cetyl alcohol are also common ingredients in candles. Stearic acids harden the wax, making the candle more durable and less prone to deformations. Fatty acid is also a stabiliser for the wax mixture, improving its overall performance and quality of the candle.
Glycerine
Glycerine from palm oil is also sometimes used as a humectant in blended waxes. Its moisturizing properties help to retain moisture and are valuable in preventing cracking and drying out of the candles. It also acts as a carrier for fragrances, helping to distribute the scent evenly throughout the candle, both when lit and unlit.
Comparison of palm oil-based waxes and other waxes
Below is the summary of technical comparisons of palm oil and other wax types
|
Wax Type |
Melting Point |
Key Features |
Candle Suitability |
|
Palm |
57–6 °C |
Slow burn, high contraction, opaque |
Ideal for long-lasting, sculpted candles |
|
Paraffin |
45–65 °C |
Cheap, versatile, macro-crystalline |
Common but less eco-friendly |
|
Beeswax |
62–65 °C |
Natural, honey-scented, hard |
Luxury candles, but expensive |
|
Carnauba |
82–88 °C |
Very hard, high melting point |
Used in blends for cosmetics |
|
Soy |
51–55 °C |
Soft, eco-friendly |
Blends well but less durability than palm |
Natural Waxes (2010)
Palm wax excels in candle making due to its durability, burn time, and aesthetic versatility. Alternatives like soy or beeswax offer similar eco-friendly benefits but lack palm’s functional advantages.
Palm oil-based candles burn cleaner and longer than paraffin wax alternatives, with minimal soot production. Its high melting point ensures a slow, even burn, making it ideal for container candles and pillars.
In the aspect of sustainability and biodegradability palm oil is a renewable resource, unlike petroleum-based paraffin. This makes the palm-based an attractive option for eco-conscious consumers. The consumers can also be assured that their candles have been sourced sustainably, given that most of the palm oil produced in Malaysia is certified to be sustainable and traceable with the MSPO.
Palm oil blends well with fragrance oils, enhancing its scent diffusing power in the scented candles. It also provides a smooth, creamy texture, allowing for easy moulding and aesthetic finishes.
In the aspect of safety and health benefits, palm wax candles are free from harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene, which are sometimes found in paraffin-based candles. This makes the candles made with palm oil ingredients to be safer for indoor use.
Conclusions
Palm oil plays a crucial role in the candle industry, offering superior burning performance and eco-friendly advantages over paraffin. With the global candle market expanding, the demand for palm oil will rise—making sustainable sourcing essential. By choosing MSPO-certified palm oil candles, consumers can enjoy high-quality products while supporting ethical and environmentally responsible practices.
With Malaysia’s position as the second largest producer of palm oil in the world, you can be assured that there is a high probability that your candles have been made with sustainably sourced Malaysian palm oil as their key ingredients.
Prepared by:
Hajar Shamsudin
[1] Market Data Forecast (2024)
[2] Association of European Candle Makers (2015)
[3] Market Data Forecast (2024)
[4] Market Data Forecast (2024)
