SOY CANDLES VS PARAFFIN CANDLES

If you love decorative candles or are looking to create a cozy atmosphere in your home, you'll love discovering natural candles.

Traditional candles are often made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct that can pollute your space when lit, releasing toxic substances that are harmful to your health and the environment.

Next, we invite you to explore the world of natural candles and their advantages compared to paraffin candles.

Paraffin Candles: A Double Problem for the Environment and Health

Conventional candles found in general stores are usually made from paraffin, a residual byproduct of refined petroleum.

Paraffin is a non-renewable fossil fuel, which means its production is directly dependent on the oil industry, a major source of pollution at all stages of its life cycle, from extraction and transportation to utilization and design.

Paraffin candles, in addition to their connection to petroleum, emit dangerous chemical compounds into your home's air. Tests conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have shown that the smoke from these candles contains substances such as acetone, benzene, toluene, and carbon tetrachloride.

The American Lung Association has also warned that paraffin candles can release significant amounts of toxins into a home's indoor air, which can negatively affect people with respiratory problems, children, and pets.

In addition to these concerns, paraffin candles have other disadvantages:

1. They generate black soot that, in addition to being toxic, can dirty the walls and furniture in your home.
2. They have a higher melting point (around 70-80 degrees Celsius), which can cause burns.
3. The wicks used in these candles may also contain toxic chemicals, contributing to air pollution.
4. Do not consume completely, leaving toxic and non-biodegradable residues.
5. They burn faster than natural candles, which reduces their durability.
6. They are difficult to clean or remove from fabrics and other materials.
7. They often contain chemical fragrances that can be problematic for people with allergies or respiratory problems.

So why are paraffin candles so popular? The answer lies in their profitability for the industry, as paraffin production is economical as it is a byproduct of oil refineries.

Opting for Soy Candles

If you're concerned about your health and environmental impact, it's advisable to avoid paraffin and scented candles. Instead, consider using natural candles, such as soy candles.

Beeswax candles are widely recognized and get their characteristic dark yellow color from honeycombs. However, for those who prefer to keep the bees at peace, natural, plant-based candles, such as soy candles, are an excellent alternative.

The advantages of soy candles over paraffin candles include:

1. They are 100% natural and do not emit toxic substances into the air, making them healthier and more environmentally friendly.
2. Soy wax is a renewable resource, unlike paraffin, which is derived from petroleum.
3. They last longer, up to two or three times longer than conventional paraffin candles.
4. They have a lower melting point, which reduces the risk of burns and preserves the benefits of any natural essential oils they may contain.
5. It is completely consumed, minimizing waste.
6. They are easy to clean, as soy wax is water-soluble, making it easy to remove wax residue from fabrics and other materials.

Natural candles, such as soy candles, offer a healthier and more sustainable alternative to conventional paraffin candles. Choosing them not only benefits your well-being but also contributes to environmental protection.