Candles have long been a symbol of warmth, ambiance, and relaxation. After having a discussion with a friend this weekend, it dawned on me that there is still a real sense of confusion around the materials used in candles. When someone see's a candle over £30 they question it. They ask, "why is it so expensive, I can get a candle for £5, why would I waste £30?" Well, the scary fact is that the ingredients being used (wax, oils & wicks) differ hugely in quality and environmental impact. We think ooh, I have a head ache so i'm going to light my £5 candle and relax, little do we actually know that there are cheap waxes used will actually make your headache 10x worse. And it doesn't end there, some of the biggest names in the luxury industry use these cheap and nasty materials and hike the prices, making you think your getting good quality, but in reality, it's just as bad as a £5 candle manufactured with cheap materials in an unethical factory! We have a responsibility, to not only educate our customers, but advocate for better quality candles and raw materials all round. For the planets good, and equally as important, our health!
Not all candles are created equal. The type of wax used plays a significant role in both the candle's performance and its impact on the environment. In this educational blog post, we'll explore the different types of waxes commonly used in candles, shed light on the issues associated with certain waxes, and delve into the main concerns surrounding paraffin wax. We'll also uncover how luxury brands often opt for toxic paraffin wax and why it's crucial to promote responsible choices. Finally, we'll highlight the advantages of coconut wax as a sustainable and biodegradable alternative.
-
Paraffin Wax: The Mainstream Culprit Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, has been the traditional choice for candle making due to its affordability and ease of use. However, it has come under scrutiny for various reasons. Firstly, its production involves non-renewable resources, contributing to environmental degradation. Secondly, paraffin wax can release harmful toxins, such as benzene and toluene, when burned. Prolonged exposure to these emissions may negatively affect indoor air quality and human health. Consequently, the use of paraffin wax raises concerns about sustainability and potential health risks.
-
Vegetable Waxes: A Mixed Bag While vegetable waxes may seem like a greener alternative, it's important to recognise that not all vegetable waxes are equal in terms of environmental impact and performance. Soy wax, for instance, is a common vegetable wax derived from soybeans. While soy is a renewable resource, its cultivation can contribute to deforestation and pesticide use, particularly in large-scale monoculture farming. Similarly, palm wax, derived from palm oil, has been linked to deforestation and habitat destruction, raising ethical concerns. But there are many ethically sourced soy wax and vegetable wax blends, you just need to really do your homework to know where the raw materials are being harvested.
-
The Rise of Coconut Wax: Sustainable and Biodegradable Coconut wax has gained popularity as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional waxes. It is made from the meat of coconuts and is both renewable and biodegradable. Unlike paraffin wax, coconut wax burns cleanly, with minimal soot and no harmful emissions. This makes it a healthier choice for both indoor air quality and personal well-being. Additionally, coconut wax has excellent scent retention properties, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting fragrance experience.
Advantages of Coconut Wax:
- Sustainability: Coconut wax is derived from a renewable resource and doesn't contribute to deforestation.
- Biodegradability: Coconut wax naturally breaks down, minimising its impact on the environment.
- Clean Burning: Coconut wax produces minimal soot and doesn't release harmful toxins when burned.
- Excellent Scent Throw: Candles made with coconut wax have a strong and long-lasting fragrance experience.
- Versatility: Coconut wax can be blended with essential oils to create unique and customised scents.
- Artisanal Craftsmanship: Luxury brands often choose coconut wax for its premium quality, enabling them to showcase their craftsmanship and creativity.
Promoting Responsible Choices: Luxury brands have a responsibility to prioritise consumer health and environmental sustainability. By moving away from toxic paraffin wax and adopting alternatives like coconut wax, they can contribute to a cleaner and more responsible candle industry. It is essential for consumers to support brands that prioritise natural, sustainable, and non-toxic ingredients, encouraging a positive shift in the market and promoting the well-being of both individuals and the planet.
Choosing the right wax for candles goes beyond aesthetics and fragrance. The type of wax used significantly impacts both our health and the environment. Paraffin wax, often favoured by luxury brands, raises concerns about sustainability and toxic emissions. Vegetable waxes vary in their environmental impact. However, the rise of coconut wax provides a sustainable and biodegradable option, offering clean burning and enhanced fragrance experiences. It's essential for consumers and brands alike to prioritise responsible choices and embrace the many benefits of coconut wax. By making informed decisions, we can create a more sustainable and enjoyable candle experience for all.
Remember, it's good to ask questions,