Why 100% Soy Wax May Not Be The Best For Candles

The Cons of 100% Soy Wax Candles: What You Need to Know

In recent years, soy wax candles have gained popularity for their eco-friendly reputation and clean burn. Made from the oil of soybeans, these candles are often touted as a sustainable and healthier alternative to traditional paraffin candles. However, as with any product, there are both pros and cons to consider. In this post, we'll delve into some of the downsides of 100% soy wax candles that you might want to keep in mind when making your next candle purchase.

1. Lower Scent Throw

One of the most common drawbacks of 100% soy wax candles is their lower scent throw. Scent throw refers to how well a candle disperses its fragrance throughout a room. While soy wax does a good job of holding fragrance, it often releases it more subtly compared to other waxes, such as paraffin. This can be a downside if you enjoy a strong, noticeable scent from your candles.

2. Frosting and Surface Imperfections

Soy wax candles are prone to a phenomenon called "frosting," where the wax develops a frosty, white appearance on the surface. This is a natural occurrence due to the crystallization of the wax and does not affect the candle's performance. However, some people find it aesthetically displeasing. Additionally, 100% soy wax candles may sometimes have uneven surfaces or small cracks, which can detract from their visual appeal.

3. Shorter Burn Time

While soy wax candles are known for their clean burn, they tend to have a shorter burn time compared to other waxes. This is because soy wax has a lower melting point, causing it to burn at a faster rate. As a result, you may find yourself replacing soy candles more frequently than candles made from other types of wax.

4. Higher Cost

Soy wax is generally more expensive to produce than paraffin wax, which is a byproduct of petroleum. This higher production cost is often reflected in the price of 100% soy wax candles. While many people are willing to pay a premium for the eco-friendly and health benefits, the higher cost can be a downside for budget-conscious consumers.

5. Vegan Concerns

While soy wax itself is plant-based, the production process and additives used in some soy candles may not always align with strict vegan principles. For instance, some soy wax blends contain small amounts of beeswax or other animal-derived ingredients to improve texture and burn quality. If you're committed to using purely vegan products, it's essential to check the ingredients and ensure that the candle is certified vegan.

6. Limited Availability of Colors

Soy wax does not hold color as well as other waxes, which can limit the range of vibrant, bold colors available. For those who enjoy candles as a decorative element and prefer bright or specific colors, this can be a drawback. Soy wax candles often have a more muted, pastel appearance.

Conclusion

While 100% soy wax candles offer many benefits, including a cleaner burn and a renewable source, they also come with some drawbacks. From a lower scent throw to a shorter burn time and higher cost, it's essential to weigh these cons when deciding if soy wax candles are the right choice for you. As with any product, personal preference plays a significant role, and what's most important is finding candles that align with your values and meet your specific needs.

Our experience after switching to Para-Soy Wax Blend Candles

When it comes to choosing the right candle, the type of wax used can make a significant difference in the candle's performance and experience. One popular option is a para-soy wax blend, which combines paraffin wax and soy wax. In this post, we'll explore the pros and cons of para-soy wax blend candles to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Para-Soy Wax Blend Candles

1. Enhanced Scent Throw One of the major advantages of a para-soy wax blend is its enhanced scent throw. Paraffin wax, known for its strong scent throw, helps to amplify the fragrance dispersion of the candle. This means that the aroma can fill a room more effectively, providing a more immersive sensory experience. In our experience the scent throw increased by over 70% on all of our candles.

2. Smooth and Attractive Finish The combination of paraffin and soy wax often results in a smooth, glossy finish. This blend minimizes common aesthetic issues like frosting and surface imperfections, which are more prevalent in pure soy wax candles. The attractive appearance can make para-soy blend candles a great choice for decorative purposes. All of our frosting issues disappeared completely after switching to a para-soy wax blend.

3. Longer Burn Time Para-soy wax blends tend to have a longer burn time compared to 100% paraffin candles. The addition of soy wax, which burns slower, helps to extend the overall lifespan of the candle. This means you can enjoy your favorite scents for a longer period.

4. Cost-Effective Paraffin wax is generally less expensive than soy wax, making para-soy blends a cost-effective option. The blend provides some of the benefits of soy wax, like a cleaner burn, while keeping the price point more accessible compared to pure soy wax candles. With this change we were able to lower the price of our candles and extend the discount out to our customers.

5. Versatile and Customizable Para-soy wax blends offer versatility in terms of color and fragrance options. The paraffin component holds color and fragrance well, allowing for a wide range of vibrant colors and strong scents. This makes it easier for candle makers to create unique and customizable products.

Cons of Para-Soy Wax Blend Candles

1. Less Eco-Friendly While soy wax is derived from a renewable source, paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum, a non-renewable resource. This means that para-soy wax blends are not as environmentally friendly as 100% soy wax candles. For consumers prioritizing sustainability, this can be a significant drawback.

2. Potential for Soot Paraffin wax, even when blended with soy wax, can produce soot when burned. Although the soot production is generally less than that of pure paraffin candles, it can still be a concern for those with sensitivities or for those who want to maintain indoor air quality.

3. Not Always Vegan Like pure soy wax candles, para-soy blends may not always be vegan. Some blends may include additives derived from animal products to improve texture and burn quality. It's essential for vegan consumers to check product labels and ensure that the candles align with their values.

4. Limited Soy Wax Benefits While para-soy blends do offer some benefits of soy wax, such as a cleaner burn and longer burn time, these benefits are not as pronounced as in 100% soy wax candles. The presence of paraffin wax means that the blend may not burn as cleanly or have as extended a burn time as pure soy wax options.

Conclusion

Para-soy wax blend candles strike a balance between the affordability and strong scent throw of paraffin and the cleaner burn and longer burn time of soy wax. They offer a versatile and cost-effective option for candle enthusiasts, but they come with trade-offs in terms of environmental impact and soot production. As with any candle choice, it's important to consider your priorities and preferences when selecting the right wax blend for your home.

In the end it all comes to personal preference and who your target customers will be. 

Aside from soy wax, there are several other natural candle waxes available. Some popular alternatives include:

1. Beeswax:

• Source: Beeswax is produced by honeybees and is a natural by-product of honey production.
• Characteristics: Beeswax candles burn cleanly and have a natural, sweet honey scent. They have a long burn time and produce minimal soot.
• Sustainability: It is a renewable resource, but since it is an animal product, it is not suitable for vegans.

1. Coconut Wax:

   • Source: Coconut wax is made from the oil of coconuts.
   • Characteristics: It has a smooth, creamy texture and excellent scent throw. Coconut wax also burns slowly and cleanly.
   • Sustainability: Coconut oil is a renewable and sustainable resource.

2. Palm Wax:

   • Source: Derived from the oil of palm trees.
   • Characteristics: Palm wax creates a crystalline or feathered effect on the surface of the candle. It has a good scent throw and burn time.
   • Sustainability: There are concerns about the sustainability of palm oil production, so it’s essential to ensure the wax is sourced from certified sustainable plantations.

3. Rapeseed Wax (Canola Wax):

   • Source: Made from the oil of rapeseed plants.
   • Characteristics: It has a smooth texture and burns cleanly. Rapeseed wax also holds fragrance well and is known for its slow burn time.
   • Sustainability: Rapeseed is widely grown and considered a sustainable crop, particularly when sourced locally.

4. Carnauba Wax:

   • Source: Obtained from the leaves of the carnauba palm in Brazil.
   • Characteristics: It is one of the hardest natural waxes and is often used in blends to increase the hardness and durability of candles.
   • Sustainability: Harvested sustainably, but typically used in combination with other waxes.

5. Bayberry Wax:

   • Source: Made from the berries of the bayberry shrub.
   • Characteristics: Bayberry wax has a natural, earthy scent and is typically used in smaller amounts due to its cost and limited availability.
   • Sustainability: It is considered a sustainable but more niche and expensive option.

Each type of natural wax has its unique properties and benefits, making them suitable for different candle-making applications and preferences.

In the candle-making world, wax blends are commonly used to combine the benefits of different types of waxes. Blends can enhance various qualities like scent throw, burn time, appearance, and cost-effectiveness. Here are some popular types of wax blends:

1. Soy-ParaWax Blends

• Composition: A mixture of soy wax and paraffin wax.
• Benefits: This blend combines the clean-burning properties of soy with the strong scent throw and affordability of paraffin. It often results in a smooth, glossy finish and extended burn time compared to pure paraffin.

2. Soy-Beeswax Blends

• Composition: A blend of soy wax and beeswax.
• Benefits: This blend offers a cleaner burn with less soot, a longer burn time, and the natural, subtle honey scent of beeswax. It is popular for creating eco-friendly candles but is not vegan.

3. Coconut-Soy Blends

• Composition: A combination of coconut wax and soy wax.
• Benefits: Known for a smooth, creamy texture and excellent scent throw, this blend is eco-friendly and burns cleanly. It offers a slow burn and can enhance the overall fragrance experience.

4. Coconut-Paraffin Blends

• Composition: A mix of coconut wax and paraffin wax.
• Benefits: This blend often results in a strong scent throw and vibrant colors, combining the clean burn of coconut wax with the vibrant appearance and cost-effectiveness of paraffin.

5. Soy-Palm Blends

• Composition: A blend of soy wax and palm wax.
• Benefits: The blend can provide a longer burn time and a unique crystalline or feathered appearance, characteristic of palm wax. It offers good scent throw and a cleaner burn.

6. Palm-Paraffin Blends

• Composition: A mix of palm wax and paraffin wax.
• Benefits: This blend enhances the structure and aesthetic of candles, providing a crystalline finish. It also offers good scent throw and a smooth surface.

7. Beeswax-Coconut Blends

• Composition: A blend of beeswax and coconut wax.
• Benefits: This combination offers a naturally aromatic, clean-burning candle with a long burn time. The beeswax provides structure and a pleasant honey scent, while coconut wax enhances fragrance release.

8. Rapeseed-Coconut Blends

• Composition: A blend of rapeseed wax and coconut wax.
• Benefits: This blend is often used to create a biodegradable and sustainable candle with a smooth finish and good scent throw. It also tends to have a slow burn time.

9. Carnauba-Soy Blends

• Composition: A combination of carnauba wax and soy wax.
• Benefits: Carnauba wax is used in small quantities to harden the candle and provide a glossy finish. This blend offers a clean burn and good scent throw.

10. Bayberry-Soy Blends

• Composition: A mix of bayberry wax and soy wax.
• Benefits: This blend provides a natural, earthy scent with a slow burn time. Bayberry wax is usually used in small amounts due to its cost and limited availability.

These blends allow candle makers to tailor their products to specific performance and aesthetic characteristics, catering to different customer preferences and market niches.