Why Soy Wax Candle Is Different From Other Candles

Posted on Sep 2 2023 - 2:48pm by tweenselmom

Have you received soy wax candles as gifts? I’ve received many soy wax candles as gifts from friends and brands and I love all them. You should love them too and appreciate if you are given one because these candles are special. These soy candles are so calming for me whenever I smell them even if I don’t light them up. Ang bango talaga!

Calm and serene hand poured soy wax candle from Cosette & Simone
all thanks to ComCo SEA as part of AXA Philippines Make Time for Me-Time campaign that encourages everyone to put more time for personal wellness

Here are some key differences that set soy wax candles apart:

  1. Wax Source:
    • Soy Wax: Soy wax is derived from soybean oil, which is a renewable and natural resource. It is a vegetable-based wax that is biodegradable and eco-friendly.
    • Paraffin Wax: Paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum refining. It is a synthetic wax and is not considered as environmentally friendly as soy wax due to its fossil fuel origin.
    • Beeswax: Beeswax is produced by honeybees and is a natural wax. It has a sweet honey-like scent and is also considered eco-friendly.
  2. Environmental Impact:
    • Soy Wax: Soy wax is considered more environmentally friendly because it is made from a renewable resource (soybeans) and has a lower carbon footprint compared to paraffin wax.
    • Paraffin Wax: Paraffin wax is derived from non-renewable petroleum sources, contributing to carbon emissions and environmental concerns.
    • Beeswax: Beeswax is also considered eco-friendly as it is naturally produced by bees and does not involve the extraction of non-renewable resources.
  3. Burning Characteristics:
    • Soy Wax: Soy wax burns more cleanly and evenly compared to paraffin wax. It typically has a longer burn time and doesn’t produce as much soot or smoke.
    • Paraffin Wax: Paraffin wax candles can produce more soot and smoke when burned, which can contribute to indoor air pollution and may lead to blackened walls and ceilings.
    • Beeswax: Beeswax candles also burn cleanly and emit a subtle honey fragrance. They have a slower burn rate compared to paraffin candles.
  4. Scent and Color Absorption:
    • Soy Wax: Soy wax has the ability to hold and release fragrances effectively, resulting in strong and long-lasting scents. It can also hold color well and create vibrant, evenly colored candles.
    • Paraffin Wax: Paraffin wax can hold fragrances and colors, but soy wax is often considered better at retaining scents.
    • Beeswax: Beeswax candles have a natural honey scent and color. While they can hold some fragrances, the scent throw may not be as strong as with soy or paraffin candles.
  5. Health Considerations:
    • Soy Wax: Soy wax is generally considered safe and does not release harmful chemicals or toxins when burned.
    • Paraffin Wax: Burning paraffin wax candles can release potentially harmful chemicals into the air, though the levels are usually within safe limits for occasional use.
    • Beeswax: Beeswax is also safe to burn and does not produce harmful emissions.

Soy wax candles have gained popularity due to their eco-friendly nature, clean burn, and strong scent retention. So if you get one as gift this year, appreciate it as it means that the person who gave it to you simply likes you to be happy, calm and rested and one with nature.