Soy wax and paraffin are the two most common candle waxes. In short: soy is a natural wax that burns slower and cleaner, while paraffin is a petroleum-based wax that’s cheaper but burns faster and can release more soot. Here’s how they compare.
What is soy wax?
Soy wax is made from soybean oil — a natural, renewable, biodegradable material. It burns at a lower temperature, so it lasts longer and releases fragrance gently and evenly. Every AromaceLuxe candle is hand-poured with natural soy wax.
What is paraffin wax?
Paraffin is a by-product of petroleum refining. It’s inexpensive and holds a strong scent, which is why it’s common in mass-produced candles — but it burns hotter and faster and can produce more soot.
Soy vs paraffin: the key differences
- Burn time: soy burns slower, so it typically lasts longer than paraffin of the same size.
- Cleanliness: soy burns cleaner with less soot.
- Fragrance: soy releases scent gently and evenly; paraffin can throw a stronger initial scent but burns off faster.
- Sustainability: soy is natural, renewable and biodegradable.
- Price: paraffin is cheaper to produce; soy is a premium choice.
Which should you choose?
If you want a candle that burns longer, cleaner and more gently — and a more natural, sustainable choice — soy is the better pick. For most people who value a clean, long-lasting, premium candle, soy wins.
Frequently asked questions
Are soy candles healthier or safer?
Soy candles burn cleaner with less soot, which many people prefer. As with any candle, burn in a ventilated space and follow basic candle safety.
Do soy candles smell as strong as paraffin?
Soy releases fragrance more gently and evenly over a longer burn, rather than a strong quick burst — many find this more pleasant for living spaces.
Do soy candles last longer?
Yes — because soy burns at a lower temperature, a soy candle generally lasts longer than a paraffin candle of the same size.
Explore our hand-poured soy jar candles or the full collection.
