Hello beautiful people,
We all love the ritual of lighting a candle. It sets the mood, calms the mind, and makes a house feel like a home. But have you ever looked closely at what you are actually breathing in?
For years, the candle industry has relied on paraffin wax because it is cheap and readily available. But as we learn more about indoor air quality, many candle lovers are asking the same question: Is there a safer, healthier alternative?
The answer is yes. At Lory Lace, we exclusively use 100% natural soy wax. Here is the breakdown of the “Soy vs. Paraffin” debate and why making the switch is the best decision for your health and your wallet.
What Exactly is Soy Wax?
Before we compare the two, it helps to understand what you are burning.
Soy Wax is a vegetable wax derived from the oil of soybeans. It is a completely renewable resource grown by farmers. After the beans are harvested, they are cleaned, cracked, de-hulled, and rolled into flakes. The oil is then extracted and hydrogenated, turning it into the creamy, solid wax we pour into our jars.
Paraffin Wax, on the other hand, is a byproduct of the oil purification process. It is derived from petroleum, coal, or oil shale. Essentially, it is the sludge left over from refining gasoline.
The Showdown: Soy Wax vs. Paraffin Wax
If you are looking for a quicker answer on which is better, here is how they stack up side by side.
| Feature | Soy Wax Candles | Paraffin Wax Candles |
| Source | 100% Natural Soybeans (Vegetable) | Petroleum (Fossil Fuel Byproduct) |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic & Clean Burning | Can release benzene & toluene |
| Soot | Minimal to Zero Soot | Often produces black “petro-soot” |
| Burn Time | Burns 30-50% slower (Longer lasting) | Burns quickly |
| Biodegradable | Yes (Eco-friendly) | No (Not biodegra |
1. A Healthier Home: The “No Soot” Promise
Have you ever noticed black marks on your walls or the rim of your candle jar? That is soot.
Because paraffin is petroleum-based, burning it can release petro-carbon soot into your home. This is the same black exhaust produced by diesel engines, which can contain carcinogens like benzene and toluene.
Soy wax is clean-burning. It creates zero petro-soot. While all candles produce a small amount of carbon if the wick isn’t trimmed, soy wax creates no toxic black smoke, keeping your walls clean and your indoor air quality safe for you, your children, and your pets.
2. Value for Money: Soy Burns Longer
One of the biggest myths is that soy candles are “too expensive.” While they might cost a dollar or two more upfront, they are actually cheaper in the long run.
Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin. This means it burns cooler and slower. A 10oz soy candle will often burn 30% to 50% longer than a paraffin candle of the same size. You are literally getting more hours of relaxation for your money
3. A Better Scent Experience (“Scent Throw”)
Have you ever lit a candle that smelled like burning chemicals? That’s often the result of chemical boosters added to paraffin to make the scent “pop.”
Soy wax burns cleaner and cooler, which allows the fragrance oils to vaporize gently rather than burning off instantly. This creates a more pleasant, gradual scent throw that fills the room without being overpowering or inducing headaches. It’s a true-to-scent experience that lets the delicate notes of our Aromatherapy Collection shine.
4. Eco-Friendly & Sustainable
For the eco-conscious shopper, this is the easiest choice you’ll make all year.
- Renewable: Soybeans are a crop that can be grown again and again.
- Biodegradable: Since it is a vegetable oil, soy wax breaks down naturally.
- Easy Cleanup: Spilled some wax? You don’t need harsh chemicals to remove it. A little soap and warm water cleans soy wax right up from carpets or tablecloths.
The Verdict?
The winner is clear. Soy wax candles are safer for your family, better for the planet, and give you a longer-lasting fragrance experience.
We believe you shouldn’t have to choose between a beautiful scent and a healthy home. That is why every candle we pour at Lory Lace is made with 100% soy wax and premium, non-toxic fragrance oils.
Ready to smell the difference? Shop our best-selling Soy Wax Candles here.
Soy lonWith warmth and light,
Lory
Founder at Lory Lace LLC
