There are a lot of questions out there about the difference between paraffin candles and soy candles. The intent of this article is to briefly share some general facts. However, when it comes down to it, it’s just a personal choice.
Paraffin Wax Candles
Paraffin candles are the most commonly sold candles on the market. Paraffin is a petroleum by-product. Wax is extracted from crude oil and then it goes through a purifying process to create paraffin wax.
Paraffin candles have, what we call in the industry, great scent throw. This simply means the smell is strong and the aroma fills the given space very well. If you have walked into a room with a burning candle and the smell was super strong, it may likely be a paraffin candle.
Paraffin wax is not renewable and burns more quickly than soy candles.
Soy Wax Candles
Soy wax is derived from soybeans grown by farmers. It is a natural, biodegradable wax. While you may pay more for a soy candle, soy candles tend to last longer than a comparably sized paraffin candle. Soy candles offer a cleaner burn meaning there is little soot released.
Soy candles may not offer as strong a scent as paraffin, but soy wax does offer good scent throw. Unlike paraffin wax candles, soy candles may have frosting, which is a natural occurrence in soy wax. According to Candle Science, frosting is discoloring on the top and sides of soy candles caused by tiny crystal growths. This frosting does not at all affect the performance of the candle.
Again, just like candle scents, the type of candle is a personal choice. There is a lot of information out there on paraffin, soy, and other candle wax options. Candle Studio 1422 offers soy wax candles and products.