If you love candles, you’ve probably enjoyed the warm, calming glow they bring to any room. But have you ever wondered what’s actually in the candles you’re burning? Not all candles are created equal, and the wax you choose can make a big difference in terms of health, sustainability, and overall experience. One of the biggest choices candle lovers face is between natural candles and paraffin candles.
So, what’s the deal? Why should you choose natural candles over paraffin? Let’s break it down.
What Are Paraffin Candles?
Paraffin is one of the most common types of wax used in candles today, largely because it’s inexpensive and easy to produce. But here’s the kicker: paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum, the same crude oil used to make gasoline and other industrial products.
When paraffin candles burn, they can release toxins like benzene and toluene, which are both known carcinogens. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to these chemicals can lead to respiratory issues and other health concerns (EPA, 2021). While this doesn’t mean every paraffin candle is immediately harmful, if you’re burning candles regularly in a closed space, it’s something to consider.
What Makes Natural Candles Different?
Natural candles, on the other hand, are made from plant-based waxes like soy, coconut, or beeswax. These ingredients are not only renewable but also burn much cleaner than paraffin, without releasing harmful toxins into the air.
Here’s why natural candles are worth the switch:
1. Better for Indoor Air Quality
One of the major benefits of natural candles is that they’re much healthier for the air in your home. Since paraffin is derived from petroleum, burning it can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can linger in your space. These VOCs can irritate the lungs, trigger allergies, and even worsen asthma symptoms, especially if you’re burning candles frequently (EPA, 2021).
Natural waxes like soy, coconut, or beeswax burn much cleaner and don’t produce these harmful chemicals. Instead, you’re left with a candle that creates a warm ambiance without polluting your indoor air.
2. Longer, Cleaner Burns
Natural candles typically burn longer than paraffin candles. For example, soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin, which means it burns slower and can give you hours of extra burn time (National Candle Association, 2022). That makes your candle investment go further while still providing a high-quality experience.
Another bonus? Coconut wax is also known for its slow, even burn. It helps the candle maintain its scent longer without the excessive smoke or soot that paraffin candles often leave behind. That means no more dealing with black soot stains on your walls, furniture, or candle jars.
3. Reduced Environmental Impact
If you’re trying to make more eco-friendly choices, choosing a natural candle over paraffin is a small but impactful step. Since paraffin comes from petroleum, it’s tied to the environmental damage caused by oil drilling and refining. The production of paraffin contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, making it a less sustainable option.
On the other hand, natural waxes like soy and coconut are renewable resources. Beeswax, while not plant-based, is a byproduct of honey production and is considered one of the most environmentally friendly waxes available. Plus, many natural candle brands, including BeeQuench’d®, prioritize sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly packaging, which reduces the overall carbon footprint.
4. Enhanced Scent Throw with Natural Ingredients
Another key difference between paraffin and natural candles is how they handle scent. Because paraffin burns quickly and at a higher temperature, it tends to produce an overpowering or even artificial smell. This isn’t ideal if you prefer a more subtle, balanced fragrance in your space.
With natural waxes, you’re getting a slower burn, which allows the fragrance to disperse gradually, creating a more balanced and natural scent experience. Coconut wax in particular is known for its excellent scent throw, helping your favorite candle fragrances linger without overwhelming the room.
5. Safer for People with Allergies or Sensitivities
If you or someone in your home has allergies, asthma, or chemical sensitivities, switching to natural candles can make a noticeable difference. Paraffin candles, especially those with synthetic fragrances, can exacerbate respiratory issues or cause headaches in people who are sensitive to air quality.
Natural candles, made from plant-based waxes and essential oils, are typically much gentler on the respiratory system. They’re a great option if you want to enjoy the soothing atmosphere of candles without the risk of irritating your lungs or skin.
6. Supporting Ethical, Sustainable Brands
Many natural candle companies are committed to sustainability, eco-friendly packaging, and ethical practices. By choosing natural candles, you’re often supporting small businesses or brands that take the environment and health seriously—brands like BeeQuench’d®, which focuses on creating candles made from coconut apricot crème wax and beeswax, using sustainable materials.
Paraffin, on the other hand, is often mass-produced by large corporations, with less focus on sustainability. Opting for natural candles means voting with your dollar for products that are healthier, more eco-friendly, and produced with care.
Ready to Make the Switch?
In the end, the choice between natural candles and paraffin candles is about more than just fragrance or price. It’s about making a healthier choice for yourself, your home, and the environment. With natural candles, you get a clean burn, a longer-lasting experience, and the peace of mind that you’re breathing in something safe and sustainable.
At BeeQuench’d®, we believe in the power of natural ingredients—not just in skincare, but in every part of your wellness routine. Our natural candles, made from clean-burning coconut apricot crème wax and beeswax, give you the perfect balance of soothing scents and a healthier home environment.
So the next time you’re ready to light a candle, choose one that’s as good for your space as it is for your soul.
Sources:
- EPA. (2021). “Volatile Organic Compounds and Indoor Air Quality.”
- National Candle Association. (2022). "Choosing the Right Candle Wax."
- Darbre, P. D., et al.. (2021). "Parabens and Health Concerns." Endocrine Reviews.
