11/25/2023
Soy v. Paraffin: Which Reigns Supreme?
Often, candle or wax melt labels tout their soy content, whether it be a soy blend or made with '100% soy wax.' Subconsciously, you probably assumed soy wax is better, right? No one brags about their candle being 100% paraffin wax, right? Soy wax seems to be synonymous clean burning, non-toxic, natural and eco-friendly; but is it actually?
Let's explore the unvarnished truth.
Neither soy nor paraffin wax is entirely natural or sustainable.
Both are biodegradable and non-toxic.
Surprisingly, soy wax isn't water-soluble, isn't eco-friendly due to pesticide and GMO concerns, and isn't purely natural despite its soybean origins.
Paraffin wax, a byproduct of crude oil refinement, is similarly not natural but does originate from a natural source. Some might argue it's greener given its status as a byproduct.
Both waxes when used alone can cause a candle to soot while burning.
Paraffin wax throws better hot scent, and soy wax does great with scent retention.
Mix these two together and you get: a wax melt that has great cold throw and hot throw!
But, if you vehemently oppose crude oil-derived products, it's important to note that candles labeled as soy may not solely contain 100% soy wax. For a candle to be labeled "Soy Candle," it needs only 52% soy wax. Verifying with the manufacturer becomes crucial to ensure authenticity. And even a 100% soy wax candle likely contains small amounts of additives to make it more resistant to frosting, shrinking and temperature sensitivity.
The bottom line is: paraffin vs soy, neither is inferior. Both have strengths and weaknesses on their own, and they do great blended together! :)