4 Reasons to Choose Soy Wax Over Paraffin Wax

If you haven’t had the chance to try burning soy wax instead of traditional paraffin, you could be missing out on a host of benefits for your nose, your wallet, and your health. In fact, burning soy wax in a wax melt or candle form is a much better option than traditional paraffin for many reasons. Find out why below!

#1. Soy Wax is Natural

Derived from the soybean, soy wax is a hydrogenated vegetable oil that turns to a solid at room temperature. After they are harvested, the beans are cleaned, cracked, dehulled, and rolled into flakes. Soy wax contains nothing artificial, which makes it a better alternative to old-fashioned paraffin wax, which is made from petroleum oil and produces harmful by-products when burned or melted. Soy wax is non-toxic making it better both for the environment and your health! 

#2. Paraffin Wax May Contain Benzene 

Many mainstream candle brands make their candles with paraffin wax. Paraffin wax is derived from derived from petroleum. It has been claimed that paraffin wax releases harmful substances when burnt, which has contributed to its fall out of favor. In 2009, a study by South Carolina State University found that burning paraffin wax candles give off benzene. The American Cancer Society classifies benzene as a carcinogen, a substance that promotes the growth of cancer. In the same 2009 study performed by South Carolina State University, they found that soy wax did not give off benzene, unlike paraffin wax. 

A 2009 Study Found Paraffin Wax Gave Off Benzene  

#3. Soy Wax is Environmentally Friendly

Since soy wax is made from soybeans, it is friendly to the environment because soybeans are a renewable resource. Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, which is not a renewable resource. This is especially important if you are pregnant, have kids, or have pets, because it’s the safest option health-wise. You want to avoid wax blends or candles that don’t state the exact breakdown of ingredients.

#4. Soy Wax Burns Cleaner 
Because soy wax is made of all natural materials, it is thought that it delivers a cleaner burn that petroleum derived paraffin wax. It’s common to hear people complain of headaches when paraffin candles burn, but in general, this isn’t due to the scent of the wax but rather the chemicals it releases into the air.

From delivering stronger scents to being healthier to burn, there are many reasons to use soy wax melts and candles instead of paraffin ones. If you would like to experience the benefits of soy wax yourself, be sure to visit the Happy Wax® Shop, where you’ll find soy wax melts available in a variety of delightful scents.