Soy Wax Blends vs. Pure Soy: What You Need to Know

Does Wax Choice Matter?

Traditional paraffin wax candles have lost their popularity because of the chemicals they release, which impact your health and the environment. Currently, soy-based candles - pure or blended - have taken over the market because they are organic and have emerged as a cleaner option. However, a little-known fact is that not all soy candles can claim these benefits because not all soy candles are created equal. Some "soy candles" contain a significant amount of paraffin, which negates these benefits. Understanding this difference can help you make better choices for your home and the environment.

The Science Behind Waxes

Soy wax is a natural product made from soybean oil. The hydrogenation process, which involves adding hydrogen atoms to the oil, stabilizes the oil and transforms it into a solid, smooth wax.

A distinctive feature of soy wax is its lower melting point (around 77.3°C), which gives it a longer burn time than traditional paraffin wax. However, additives are often included in commercial soy wax to improve scent throw, hardness, or appearance.

What you need to know:

• Pure soy candles: These are made with 100% soybean oil. They are organic, biodegradable and eco-friendly.
• Soy wax blend candles: While these do technically contain soy wax, they are mixed with other waxes, such as paraffin, coconut wax, or palm oil, to enhance texture and scent throw. This compromises their environmental benefits.

From Soybean to Candle: The Art of Crafting

Transforming soybeans into candles is an intricate process requiring precision and patience. Here’s how it is done:

• Step: 1
  Soy wax must be melted in a double boiler at a constant temperature of around 185°F (85°C). Overheating - anything above 200°F (93°C) - can damage and discolour the wax.

• Step: 2
  Adding the fragrance is a delicate step. This is usually done at between 120-140°F (48-60°C). Any temperature above 165°F (74 °C) risks breaking down the top notes and thus altering the scent profile.

• Step: 3
  The wax now needs to cool down to about 135°F (57°C) before being poured. After pouring, soy candles need at least 3-4 days to cure. The ideal cure time is two weeks. This yields the best results and the richest scent. During this time, you should maintain a stable room temperature of around 70°F (21°C) to prevent issues like frosting or wet spots.

Performance Insights

• Burn Time: Soy wax candles are scientifically proven to burn longer than paraffin wax candles due to their lower melting point. This is an obvious value-add for consumers.
• Scent throw: Again, soy wax has the advantage because its porous structure helps absorb, retain, and release fragrance better than most other waxes.
• Emissions: Soy-based candles produce 90% less soot than other wax candles, making them almost emission-free. Paraffin candles release harmful compounds like toluene and benzene, which negatively impact indoor air quality.
• Aesthetics: Pure soy candles tend to frost, a completely natural phenomenon that does not affect performance. In contrast, candles made of soy blends and paraffin wax have a smoother, glossier finish.
• Shelf Life: Soy candles can last up to two years when stored away from heat and direct light.

Wrap Up

By now, it should be evident that soy-based candles surpass traditional paraffin candles in numerous ways. They burn longer, give off a beautiful fragrance (even when they are not burning) and produce minimal soot. To top it off they are also biodegradable, eco-friendly and gentler on your health. Understanding the differences between pure soy and soy blends allows you to choose candles that align with your preferences and environmental values.

Next time you’re shopping for candles, remember—what’s in the wax matters more than you might think!