Soy Vs Paraffin Wax
Why you should make the switch to Soy and get rid of the toxic Paraffins!
For years Paraffin has been used as a cheaper alternative to soy wax when it comes to candle making.
Whilst soy may not be as cheap and easily accessible, it is vegan friendly, animal friendly and safe for you and the environment!
Why shouldn't I use paraffin wax/products made with paraffin?
Paraffin wax is obtained from petroleum by dewaxing light lubricating oil stocks. It is as easily obtained as petrol and there is certainly no shortage in it! It's used in everything from candles, wax paper, polishes, cosmetics and electrical insulators. However there are a few reasons why you SHOULDN'T be using anything with paraffins!
Paraffin candles creates a highly toxic carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) such as benzene and toluene when burned. In fact, the toxins released from paraffin candles are the same as those found in diesel fuel fumes and are linked to both asthma and lung cancer.
It is terrible for you, but it is even WORSE for your little furry friends! Imagine if our big, strong lungs cant process the toxins from paraffins... our furry friends have even smaller lungs that can actually collapse and become really damaged if they inhale paraffin fumes!
The toxins from Paraffin wax can cause headaches and even migraines! This is due to the toluene in the candle and when burned can effect the central nervous system in the brain. Toluene enters your body when it evaporates into the air that you breathe. According to reports from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), toluene can cause damage to the nervous system resulting in headaches, migraines, nausea, insomnia and dizziness. Frequent exposure to toluene can cause frequent headaches, nausea and fatigue.
Who uses paraffin in their candles?
Unfortunately the majority of big companies like Kmart are known to use paraffin wax. Other popular candles that use paraffin wax can come from the following places:
Some TK Maxx candles
Some Big W candles
Some Target Candles
Most grocery store candles
Most bargain store candles
Some Yankee Candles
Even some Dusk candles!
Where can I buy Soy candles instead?
Small businesses that handmake candles are generally always the safest way to go when purchasing candles. Whilst it can sometimes be more expensive, it is generally going to be safer for you, your family and your pets to have non toxic wax and ingredients used to make candles.