Soy Wax Candles vs Paraffin: What's the Right Option for You?
Most candles are made from two types of waxes; soy wax and paraffin. In a world where consumers are starting to pay attention to what we put into our bodies and skin, we should know what we allow into the air around us.
Paraffin wax candles are a popular choice for many major candle retailers. It is the more cost-efficient option, but is paraffin the best option for you and your home? There are some significant differences between paraffin and wax candles and how they affect your health and the environment's health.
Soy Wax Candles vs. Paraffin Wax Candles
Paraffin wax is made from crude oil, which is sent to refineries to be made into lubricating oil. That lubricating oil is what paraffin wax is derived from. On the other hand, Soy wax candles are made from natural soybeans that are expressed to release the oils, and those oils are turned into wax for candles (and, of course, for other products).
When you just consider how the wax for these candles is made, the thought of paraffin wax seems a little rough, and they have a bit of a bad rep. It's clear that if you are burning candles, you will want to choose the natural option, right? Absolutely, but let's dive in and examine why soy wax candles are the superior options.
Soy Wax is Renewable
Soy wax is made from soybeans, which can be regrown in crops. Paraffin wax is collected from fossil fuels, which are nonrenewable substances. To top it off, it is terrible for the environment to extract and is not biodegradable.
Soy Wax Releases Less Soot and Toxins
Paraffin wax releases soot because it contains hydrocarbons. Some studies have shown that these can release toxic carcinogens, such as toluene and benzene, into the air while burning. Parrafin has been known to aggregate people's respiratory issues. Soy wax doesn't remove any harmful chemicals and burns clean.
Soy Wax Can Burn Longer
Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin wax, making it burn at a cooler temperature and not burn as fast. Sox wax candles have been proven to burn at least 30 to 50 percent longer than paraffin wax candles.
Soy wax candles have a more potent cleaner fragrance
With less soot and toxins released from soy candles, they tend to have a more pungent scent than paraffin wax candles. Typically, it would be the chemicals released by the candles interfering with the scent, making it not as strong. Having a clean burn that highlights the intended fragrance is crucial since you're likely not burning it for the light. The sustainably produced and natural Fresh Apple Soy Candle by Hudson Valley Skin Care is handmade and poured into a recyclable tin. You'll feel like you're strolling through an apple orchard.
Soy wax is the clear choice for burning candles in your home. It's a much better option for the environment, your health, and your pockets. You'll be spending less money on replacing your candles! You can't go wrong with soy wax candles.
