From Beeswax to Paraffin: Different Candle Wax Types

 

Beeswax Candles

Candles have illuminated our spaces for centuries, evolving from mere sources of light to essential elements in home decor, aromatherapy, and personal well-being. Today, the variety of candles on the market is vast, with differences in scents, colors, shapes, and, notably, the types of wax used. Each wax type has its unique characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks. Let's explore the most common types of candle waxes, including beeswax, 100% soy, soy blends, paraffin, and others, to understand which might suit your preferences and lifestyle.

Characteristics & Benefits:

• Natural & Pure: Beeswax is one of the oldest materials used for making candles. It is completely natural, produced by bees, and known for its golden color and subtle honey scent.
• Non-Toxic: Beeswax candles burn cleanly, with little to no smoke or soot, making them ideal for those with allergies or sensitivities.
• Air Purifying: They emit negative ions when burned, which can help purify the air in your home.

Pros & Cons:

• Pros: Eco-friendly, long-burning, and hypoallergenic.
• Cons: Tends to be more expensive than other types of candles.

Ideal For: Environmentally conscious individuals and those who prefer a natural, subtle scent without added fragrances.

 

100% Soy Candles

 

Characteristics & Benefits:

• Vegetable-Based: Made from soybeans, these candles are a renewable resource and a great choice for those seeking eco-friendly options.
• Clean Burning: Soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin, with less soot and toxins released into the air.
• Long-Lasting: Soy candles generally burn longer than paraffin candles.

Pros & Cons:

• Pros: Renewable, biodegradable, and supports agriculture.
• Cons: Can be softer and may not hold shape well in warmer climates, and can not be free standing candles. They also tend to have a more subtle scent. 

Ideal For: Those looking for a sustainable option that’s better for the environment and indoor air quality.

 

Soy Blends

Characteristics & Benefits:

• Blend of Soy and Other Waxes: These candles combine soy wax with other types, often paraffin, to enhance performance.
• Versatile: The blend allows for a stronger scent throw and better performance in terms of shape and burn quality.

Pros & Cons:

• Pros: Combines the benefits of soy wax with the structural integrity of other waxes.
• Cons: Not 100% natural, which might be a drawback for purists.

Ideal For: Individuals seeking a balance between natural ingredients and performance, especially in terms of scent strength and candle appearance.

Paraffin Candles

Characteristics & Benefits:

• Widely Used & Versatile: Paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum refining. It’s the most common candle wax, known for its excellent scent throw and versatility in shaping and coloring.
• Affordable: Generally cheaper than natural wax options.

Pros & Cons:

• Pros: Cost-effective, strong scent throw, and versatile.
• Cons: Releases toxins and soot when burned, which can be harmful to indoor air quality.

Ideal For: Those who prioritize cost and a strong scent throw over natural ingredients.

 

Other Types of Waxes

• Coconut Wax: A relatively new addition to the candle market, coconut wax is praised for its clean burn and sustainability. It's often blended with other waxes to enhance its scent throw.
• Palm Wax: Made from palm oil, this wax is known for its unique crystalline appearance. However, concerns over deforestation associated with palm oil production have made it less popular among eco-conscious consumers.
• Rapeseed Wax: Common in Europe, rapeseed wax is another eco-friendly option. It burns clean and supports local agriculture but is less common in other parts of the world.