The short answer: Paraffin wax candles release potentially harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene, which have been linked to lung health issues and skin irritation after prolonged exposure.
Let’s talk about the elephant in the candle-lit room: paraffin wax. It’s the most common wax used in candles, but when it comes to burning it in your home, things get a little, well, smoky.
If you’re suspicious about paraffin wax, you’re not alone. It’s natural to want to ensure that the products we bring into our homes aren’t just beautiful but safe for our families and visitors.
So, is paraffin wax toxic? In this guide, we’ll explore the potential problems with paraffin wax, and highlight some healthier alternatives to help you keep your space feeling good and smelling great—without any hidden nasties.
What Is Paraffin Wax?
Paraffin wax is a solid, white substance made from petroleum. It’s created by refining the sludge left over from crude oil, which is then processed and bleached to form smooth, waxy blocks.
Paraffic is popular in candle-making since it’s cheap, holds fragrance well, and burns with a bright flame. But since it’s essentially a byproduct of fossil fuels, it’s not exactly the cleanest or most natural option out there. So while it may light up your room, it’s not winning any points in the health or sustainability departments.
Is Paraffin Wax Toxic?
When you burn a paraffin wax candle, it releases potentially harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene, which have been linked to some less-than-ideal health effects. For instance, inhaling paraffin fumes from candles can irritate the lining of your lungs. In fact, a 2016 study noted that a case of pneumonia was caused by inhaling vaporized paraffin from burning candles. Paraffin fumes can also irritate your skin if you spend too much time around them.
Picture this: you light a candle expecting a serene, calming moment, but instead, you’re getting an invisible puff of petrochemical fumes. Sound dramatic? Maybe. But think about how often you burn candles—those toxins can add up over time, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. While it’s true that the levels released aren’t exactly toxic waste levels, your home’s air deserves better.
Bottom line: If you're looking to create a cleaner, healthier home, consider alternatives like coconut wax or soy wax blends, which come without that side order of questionable chemicals. After all, a candle's job is to set the mood, not cloud it.
5 Safer Alternative Waxes for Candles
These alternative waxes are healthier because they’re derived from natural, renewable sources, which means they don’t contain the toxic chemicals that come from burning fossil fuels like paraffin. They produce less soot and fewer airborne particles, helping to keep the air in your home cleaner. Plus, since they burn at lower temperatures, they often last longer, giving you more candle-lit nights without the health risks.
1. Coconut Wax
Coconut wax is made from—you guessed it—coconuts! It’s all-natural, renewable, and burns like a dream. It’s super clean with hardly any soot, so you’re not filling your air with sketchy chemicals. Plus, the scent throw is *chef's kiss*, giving you all the aroma with none of the guilt.
At Havilah & Co., we source our coconut wax from family-run farms in the Philippines. Once the coconut meat is dried, it’s turned into oil at a local mill before being blended with our perfume quality fragrances and essential oils.
Farm-to-table candles might seem like a stretch, but we’re willing to go the extra thousands of miles across the globe.
2. Soy Wax
Made from soybean oil, soy wax is like the chill, eco-friendly friend of the candle world. It’s plant-based, burns way slower than paraffin, and doesn’t spew out any of those nasty pollutants. Bonus: if you ever spill it, a little soap and water will clean it up—no stress.
3. Beeswax
Beeswax is the OG of candle waxes. It’s made by honeybees and has been around forever. Not only does it burn super clean, but it also releases negative ions that can actually help clear the air. And that natural, sweet honey scent? Total win.
4. Rapeseed Wax
This one’s made from the oil of the rapeseed plant and is all about sustainability. It’s grown locally in places like Europe and North America, so its eco-footprint is nice and small. Like its plant-based buddies, it burns clean and even, so you can focus on the good vibes.
5. Palm Wax
Palm wax is a solid option—literally—but only if it’s sourced responsibly. Look for labels like RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil) to make sure your candle isn’t linked to deforestation. When sourced right, palm wax burns clean and has a killer scent throw.
Havilah & Co. Is Proudly Paraffin-Free
Cozy vibes shouldn’t come with a side of worries. That’s why our non-toxic candles are always 100% paraffin-free. You won’t find any petroleum problems here—just pure, natural goodness that you can feel great about lighting in your home.
Whether you prefer the bright vibes of Citrus Sunrise & Lemon or something more mysterious like Desert Bloom & Saffron, you’re doing a favor for your place, the planet, and the people who receive 50% of our profits to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
