Dispelling the Myth: Does Soy Wax Really Burn Cleaner Than Paraffin Wax? - Souvant Fragrance Co

Dispelling the Myth: Does Soy Wax Really Burn Cleaner Than Paraffin Wax?

Introduction

The debate surrounding soy and paraffin wax often hinges on claims that soy wax burns cleaner and is healthier for indoor air quality. However, a detailed look at scientific studies, including landmark research conducted in 2006 and 2021, challenges these assumptions. This article analyzes these findings to uncover the truth about wax emissions, examining the similarities between wax types and debunking myths surrounding their use.

Scientific Insights into Candle Emissions

Key Findings from the 2006 Study on Unscented Candles

In 2006, the most comprehensive study to date on unscented candles was commissioned by major candle federations, including the AECM, ALAFAVE, EWF, and NCA. An independent lab analyzed the emissions of the five most commonly used candle fuels:

  • Beeswax
  • Palm wax
  • Paraffin wax
  • Soy wax
  • Stearin

The study evaluated the emission levels of relevant pollutants and compared them to the strictest health protection guidelines. Key findings include:

  1. Emissions Similarity Across Fuels: All five fuels showed very similar emission profiles in terms of both composition and concentration.
  2. Low Consumer Exposure Risks: The emissions from all candle types were significantly below levels of concern for health, demonstrating that properly used candles are safe, regardless of wax type.

These findings underscore that no individual wax exhibited a consistently better emission profile than the others. This challenges the notion that soy wax inherently burns cleaner than paraffin or other waxes.

Expanding the Research: The 2021 Study on Scented Candles

Following the 2006 study, candle federations aimed to expand their understanding by investigating scented candles. This new study, conducted by Fraunhofer WKI, was a joint effort involving representatives from the NCA, ECA, and seven fragrance houses. The goal was to create a representative assessment of scented candles rather than testing a limited sample set.

The study tested emissions from:

  • Four unscented candle fuels (used as controls): paraffin, soy, palm, and stearin.
  • 20 scented candle types: Combining the four fuels with five fragrance mixtures considered representative of all fragrances used in candles.
Methodology
  • Candles were burned in controlled conditions within an 8 m³ stainless steel chamber.
  • Emissions measured included common combustion gases (e.g., CO, CO₂, NOₓ), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, benzene, and particulate matter (PM2.5 and ultrafine particles).
  • Consumer exposure was evaluated against stringent health guidelines from both the EU and USA.

Key Findings from the 2021 Study

  1. Consistency Across Fuels
    Similar to the 2006 study, the emissions from the unscented fuels—paraffin, soy, palm, and stearin—were remarkably similar in both composition and concentration. No single fuel was shown to outperform the others consistently in terms of reduced emissions.

  2. Influence of Fragrances
    The addition of fragrance mixtures impacted emissions more significantly than the type of wax. Fragrances contributed evaporated compounds to the overall emissions, highlighting that additives play a larger role in emissions than the base wax itself.

  3. Consumer Exposure Below Harmful Levels
    For most measured emissions, including VOCs and particulate matter, consumer exposure levels were well below established safety thresholds. However, certain exceptions (e.g., nitrogen dioxide and benzo[a]pyrene) approached or exceeded limits in specific scenarios, underscoring the importance of proper ventilation when burning candles.

  4. Validation of Results
    To ensure transparency and credibility, the study’s findings underwent peer review and were published in the open-source journal Environment International in May 2021. This allowed stakeholders, including regulatory bodies and NGOs, to independently verify the results.

Implications of These Findings

The combined results of the 2006 and 2021 studies provide several critical insights:

  1. Wax Type is Not a Major Determinant of Emissions
    Both studies demonstrate that the type of wax—whether soy, paraffin, palm, or stearin—has minimal impact on emission profiles when candles are burned under controlled conditions. Claims that soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin are therefore not substantiated by the data.

  2. Additives Matter More Than Wax Type
    Fragrance mixtures and other additives contribute significantly to the emissions produced during combustion. This highlights the need to evaluate candles holistically, rather than focusing solely on the base wax.

  3. Health Risks Are Minimal When Candles Are Used Properly
    Both studies confirm that emissions from candles are well below harmful levels in typical indoor environments. This finding reinforces the safety of using candles made from any of the tested wax types when proper burning practices are followed.

Debunking Myths About Soy and Paraffin Wax

Myth 1: Soy Wax Burns Cleaner

The scientific evidence shows that soy wax does not consistently outperform other waxes in terms of emissions. While it is marketed as a natural and cleaner alternative, the data suggest that all waxes behave similarly under normal conditions.

Myth 2: Paraffin Wax Emits Harmful Toxins

Paraffin wax has often been criticized for its petroleum origins, but the studies demonstrate that its emissions are comparable to those of plant-based waxes like soy or palm. When burned properly, paraffin wax poses no significant health risks.

Conclusion

The 2006 and 2021 studies collectively dismantle the myth that soy wax is a cleaner-burning alternative to paraffin wax. Both waxes, along with palm and stearin, produce emissions that are nearly identical in composition and concentration. Additives, such as fragrances, play a more substantial role in influencing emissions. Ultimately, the choice of wax should be guided by personal preference and intended use rather than misconceptions about air quality or health risks.

By understanding the science behind candle emissions, consumers can make informed decisions and enjoy their candles safely and confidently.

You can find the links to the study article and PDF of the study below:
Article overview
PDF link 

FAQs

  1. Are soy candles better for air quality than paraffin candles?
    No, scientific studies show that emissions from soy and paraffin wax candles are very similar.

  2. Do scented candles produce more emissions than unscented ones?
    Yes, fragrances can increase emissions, but they remain below harmful levels in most cases.

  3. How can I reduce emissions from my candles?
    Trim the wick, avoid burning candles in drafty areas, and ensure proper ventilation.

  4. Are paraffin candles safe to use?
    Yes, paraffin candles are safe when used as directed, with emissions far below harmful levels.

  5. What should I look for in an eco-friendly candle?
    Choose candles made from sustainable materials with minimal additives and eco-friendly packaging.

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