Soy wax is a natural wonder, crafted from the oil of soybeans, offering a clean, eco-friendly burn that’s as gentle on the planet as it is on your senses. Here, we’ll explore the essence of soy wax, unveiling what makes it such a great choice for our high-quality candles.
What Are Soy Wax Candles?
Soy wax candles are crafted from soybeans, a natural and eco-friendly resource. Unlike paraffin wax candles, which are derived from petroleum by-products and can contain harmful toxins, soy wax candles are free from these chemicals. Additionally, soy wax is biodegradable and boasts a lower carbon footprint compared to paraffin, making it a more sustainable and environmentally conscious choice for your home.
Here’s how it comes to life:
From The Fields
Soy wax begins in America’s soybean fields. After harvest, soybeans are cleaned, cracked, and de-hulled. The flakes are pressed to extract oil, which is then hydrogenated to become solid at room temperature. The remaining husks are recycled as animal feed, promoting sustainability.
Hydrogenation Process
Hydrogenation turns soybean oil into soy wax by converting unsaturated fatty acids to saturated ones. This process lowers the melting point, resulting in a wax that melts evenly, burns cleanly, and holds fragrance well.
Soybean Origins
Grown mainly in Illinois, Iowa, and Indiana, soybeans are a local, renewable resource. This ensures a reliable supply for our candles, supporting both high quality and environmental sustainability.
Versatile Uses of Soy Wax
Soy wax is incredibly versatile in candle making. Here’s how it’s used:
You can use soy wax on its own, such as Golden Brands 415, which offers excellent performance and a smooth finish.
For enhanced properties, soy wax can be blended with other natural oils, to achieve specific effects and performance characteristics.
Combining soy wax with paraffin creates a parasoy blend, which merges the benefits of both materials for a balanced performance.
Benefits of Soy Wax
Now that we know what soy wax is, lets find out about the range of advantages that make it a standout choice:
Non-Toxic and Cleaner Burning:
- Safe for Your Space: Soy wax is free from toxins, carcinogens, and pollutants, making it a healthier choice for your home. Unlike some other waxes, soy wax doesn’t produce harmful byproducts or black soot that can discolor walls and curtains.
- Allergy-Friendly: Its clean-burning nature reduces the risk of triggering allergies, creating a safer and more comfortable environment.
Longer, More Even Burn:
- Extended Burn Time: With a lower melting point compared to paraffin wax, soy candles burn slower and last longer. This means you get more enjoyment from each candle.
- Enhanced Scent Throw: The lower heat and larger melt pool of soy wax allow for a better evaporation of fragrance oils, resulting in a stronger and more pleasant scent that fills your space.
Easy Cleanup:
- Biodegradable and Simple to Clean: Soy wax is biodegradable, so cleaning up spills is straightforward. Just use soap and water for a hassle-free cleanup process.
Natural, Renewable, and Vegan:
- Eco-Friendly and Ethical: Derived from soybeans, soy wax is a natural and renewable resource. It’s also vegan-friendly, supporting a cruelty-free lifestyle.
- DIY Potential: For the crafty at heart, you can even make your own soy wax at home from soybeans, adding a personal touch to your candle-making journey.
Is Soy Wax Better Than Candle Wax?
Yes, soy wax is indeed the superior choice. Made from hydrogenated soybean oil, it’s all-natural and burns cleaner than paraffin wax. Soy wax candles produce less soot and fewer toxins, making them a healthier option for both your home and the environment.
What Is Special About Soy Wax?
Soy wax is unique for several reasons. It’s a natural, renewable resource that’s both biodegradable and easy to clean with just soap and water. With a lower melting point than paraffin, soy candles burn slower and longer. Plus, they produce no petro soot, offering a cleaner burn and a more eco-friendly choice.
What's the Difference Between Soy Wax and Regular Wax?
Soy wax is all-natural and free from artificial additives, making it a healthier choice compared to traditional paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum and releases harmful by-products when burned. Soy wax is non-toxic, benefiting both your health and the environment.
Is Soy Wax 100% Natural?
Yes, soy wax is 100% natural, derived from vegetable soybeans, a major crop in the U.S., especially in the Midwest. This makes it a sustainable and eco-friendly option, with most soybeans being grown and harvested locally.
Is Soy Wax OK for Skin?
Soy wax can be used as a skin lotion, ideal for areas like cuticles, hands, heels, and elbows. It’s best avoided on the face or sensitive areas. Soy wax also works well as a massage oil, offering soothing benefits.
At Seventh Avenue Apothecary, we’re passionate about the benefits of soy wax. This natural, plant-based wax delivers a cleaner burn, longer-lasting candles, and a stronger scent throw compared to traditional paraffin. With its biodegradable nature and eco-friendly origins, soy wax is also better for your home whilst also being better for our planet! So, illuminate your space with the pure, natural glow of soy wax and explore our soy wax candles and soy wax melts.