Paraffin Wax is mostly found as a white, odorless, tasteless, waxy solid, with a typical melting point between about 47 °C and 64 °C ( 117°F to 147°F), and having a density of around 0.9 g/cm3. It is insoluble in water, but soluble in ether, benzene, and certain esters. Paraffin is unaffected by most common chemical reagents, but burns readily.

In industrial applications, it is often useful to modify the crystal properties of the Paraffin Wax, typically by adding branching to the existing carbon backbone chain. The modification is usually done with additives, such as EVA copolymers, microcrystalline wax, or forms of polyethylene. The branched properties result in a modified paraffin with a higher viscosity, smaller crystalline structure, and modified functional properties. Pure Paraffin Wax is rarely used for carving original models for casting metal and other materials in the lost wax process, as it is relatively brittle at room temperature and presents the risks of chipping and breakage when worked. Soft and pliable waxes, like beeswax, may be preferred for such sculpture, but "investment casting waxes," often paraffin-based, are expressly formulated for the purpose.

Parafin Wax is used as follows;

• Candle-making
• Coatings for waxed paper or cloth
• Anti-caking agent, moisture repellent, and dustbinding coatings for fertilizers
• Agent for preparation of specimens for histology
• Bullet lubricant – with other ingredients, such as olive oil and beeswax
• Crayons
• Solid propellant for hybrid rocket motors
• Component of surfwax, used for grip on surfboards in surfing
• Component of glide wax, used on skis and snowboards
• Friction-reducer, for use on handrails and cement ledges, commonly used in skateboarding
• Ink. Used as the basis for solid ink different color blocks of wax for thermal printers. The wax is melted and then sprayed on the paper producing images with a shiny surface
• Forensics aid: the nitrate test uses paraffin wax to detect nitrates and nitrites on the hand of a shooting suspect
• Antiozonant agents: blends of paraffin and micro waxes are used in rubber compounds to prevent cracking of the rubber