Paraffin wax, colorless or white, somewhat translucent, hard wax composed of saturated hydrocarbons ,with a melting point in the range of about 48 to 66C (120 to 150F). Paraffin wax is obtained from petroleum by dewaxing light lubricating oil. Paraffin wax is a petroleum by-product created when crude oil is refined into gasoline. Paraffin is the most commonly used wax for candle making. Paraffin wax has many other uses, too. It is often used as lubrication, electrical insulation, and to make candles and crayons. It is used in candles, wax paper, polishes, cosmetics and electrical insulators. It helps extract perfume from flowers, forms a base for medical ointments, and provides waterproof coatings for wood