Ben Carter
Vegan candles are made from pure plant-based ingredients, including wax, fragrance/essential oils, and any other raw materials used within the candle. Common wax derived from plants include soy wax, coconut wax, and rapeseed wax. However, some candles may contain non-vegan ingredients like beeswax, tallow (animal fat), paraffin wax, and palm oil. Paraffin wax, in particular, has been linked to negative health effects when burned. With growing concerns about the suitability and safety of conventional candles, consumers are increasingly seeking vegan alternatives that align with their ethical and environmental values. As a result, the demand for vegan candles made from sustainable and cruelty-free ingredients is on the rise.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Vegan candle ingredients | pure plant-based ingredients, including wax, fragrance/essential oils, and any other raw material |
| Non-vegan candle ingredients | stearic acid, beeswax, paraffin wax, tallow (animal fat), palm oil |
| Vegan wax types | soy wax, coconut wax, rapeseed wax, palm wax |
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What You'll Learn
- Paraffin wax is toxic and carcinogenic when burnt
- Soy wax is vegan, burns slowly and cleanly, and comes in many scents
- Coconut wax is vegan, burns well and evenly, and holds scents and colours
- Beeswax candles are not vegan but are renewable and sustainable
- Stearic acid is common in candles but is derived from animal sources
Paraffin wax is toxic and carcinogenic when burnt
Vegan candles are made from pure plant-based ingredients, including wax, fragrance/essential oils, and any other raw materials used within the candle. Paraffin wax, beeswax, soy wax, and coconut wax are a few examples of the Vegan candles are made from pure plant-based ingredients, including wax, fragrance/essential oils, and other raw materials. Paraffin wax, beeswax, and gel wax are not derived from plants and are therefore not considered vegan.
Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil, and it has been found to contain known carcinogens such as benzene. When burned, paraffin wax emits toxic fumes and contributes to indoor air pollution. This means that you may be inhaling small doses of benzene and toluene, which are known carcinogens found in diesel engines. Researchers at South Carolina State University found that melting paraffin wax-based candles released toluene and benzene, which are linked to asthma, the exacerbation of respiratory conditions, and allergy-like reactions. Acute exposure to toluene vapour can irritate the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, and repeated exposure can lead to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs and respiratory arrest.
In addition to the health risks associated with burning paraffin wax, there are also environmental concerns. Paraffin wax is a byproduct of gas and oil refineries, and it is not a renewable resource. This makes it less environmentally friendly than plant-based waxes such as soy wax, coconut wax, and palm wax.
Soy wax, for example, burns slowly and cleanly, and it is renewable and environmentally sound when sourced from organic and sustainable suppliers. Coconut wax is another option that burns well and evenly and can hold added scents and colours well. Palm wax is derived from palm oil and is a rapidly renewable resource that is non-GMO. These plant-based waxes are sustainable, naturally sourced options that are considered safe for your health.
While some sources claim that paraffin wax is highly purified and does not contain carcinogenic compounds, the weight of evidence suggests that burning paraffin wax can release toxic chemicals and contribute to negative health outcomes. It is important to consider the concentration of these chemicals in the air and the amount that could be ingested, as this determines the level of safety.
Overall, paraffin wax is a non-vegan, toxic, and potentially carcinogenic substance when burned, and it is advisable to opt for plant-based, vegan alternatives for candles and wax melts.
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Soy wax is vegan, burns slowly and cleanly, and comes in many scents
A vegan candle is made from pure plant-based ingredients, including wax, fragrance/essential oils, and any other raw materials used within the candle. Anything not derived from plants would make the candle non-vegan. For example, candles that contain stearic acid, which is derived from animal sources, or beeswax, are not vegan.
Soy wax is vegan, as it is derived from soybeans, not a living insect or animal. It is also biodegradable, eco-friendly, and plant-based. Soy wax is a great alternative to paraffin wax, which is derived from the oil industry and emits chemicals linked to cancer, respiratory diseases, and allergies when burned. Soy wax burns slowly and cleanly, producing 90% less soot than paraffin wax. It also does not emit chemicals like toluene, benzene, methyl ethyl ketone, or naphthalene.
Soy wax is a popular choice for candle makers as it is affordable, beginner-friendly, and soft when set. It is also renewable and environmentally sound when bought from an organic and sustainable supplier. Soy wax lasts 10%-15% longer than paraffin wax and has a high fragrance load capability. It is also safe for the skin, as it is made from soybean oil, and can be used as a skin lotion.
Soy wax comes in many scents, as it can be infused with natural fragrances. Popular scents include patchouli, amber, tobacco leaf, vanilla bean, sandalwood, and Egyptian musk. Soy wax also holds scent well and produces less soot than other wax types. However, due to its higher melting point, it takes longer to release fragrance than some other wax types.
When shopping for soy wax candles, it is important to look for brands committed to transparency and cruelty-free practices. It is also important to ensure that the candle is made from organic and sustainable sources and that the fragrance is derived from natural plant-based sources.
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Coconut wax is vegan, burns well and evenly, and holds scents and colours
When it comes to vegan candles, it is important to consider both the wax and the fragrance oil. Vegan candles are made from pure plant-based ingredients, including wax, fragrance/essential oils, and any other raw materials used in the candle.
Coconut wax is one such vegan wax option. It is derived from the meat of coconuts, making it a sustainable and renewable alternative to paraffin and beeswax. Coconut wax candles have a higher melting point, allowing them to hold more fragrance and emit less soot. They burn cleanly and slowly, lasting much longer than traditional candles. The wax is also suitable for use with most common wicks.
In addition to its sustainability and long-lasting burn, coconut wax is well-suited for holding added scents and colours. The wax gives a beautiful white colour that can be enhanced with various fragrances and dyes. This makes coconut wax a versatile option for those seeking customisation in their candles.
When choosing vegan candles, it is important to consider not only the wax but also the fragrance oil used. Fragrance oils are synthetic materials created in labs, while essential oils are derived from natural plant-based sources. By understanding the types of plant-based waxes and ensuring fragrance oils are derived from vegan sources, consumers can make informed choices about the candles they purchase.
Overall, coconut wax ticks all the boxes for a vegan candle option. It is sustainable, burns well and evenly, and holds scents and colours effectively. With its versatility and eco-friendly properties, coconut wax is an excellent choice for those seeking vegan alternatives to traditional candles.
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Beeswax candles are not vegan but are renewable and sustainable
Vegan candles are made from pure plant-based ingredients, including wax, fragrance/essential oils, and any other raw materials used within the candle. Paraffin wax, beeswax, soy wax, and coconut wax are some of the many different types of waxes used to make candles. However, only waxes derived from plants can be considered vegan.
Beeswax is a natural wax secreted by bees to build their honeycombs. It is used to make beeswax candles, which are not vegan but offer several benefits. Firstly, beeswax candles are renewable and sustainable. They are made from a natural, biodegradable, and renewable resource that burns cleanly and brightly. Beeswax candles have a longer burn time compared to paraffin or soy candles, and they burn with little smoke when properly maintained.
Additionally, beeswax candles are non-toxic and safe for pets, making them ideal for households with animals. They emit negative ions when burned, helping to purify the air and reduce pollutants, allergens, dust, mold, and other airborne contaminants. Beeswax candles also have a high melting point, making them more resistant to melting in warm conditions. They produce a subtle, warm, and natural honey aroma without the need for synthetic fragrances.
While beeswax candles offer these advantages, it is important to note that they are not vegan due to the use of beeswax, which is an animal-based product. However, some candle manufacturers may use ethically sourced beeswax, ensuring the well-being of bees and sustainable beekeeping practices.
When choosing candles, consumers can opt for vegan candles made from plant-based waxes like soy wax, coconut wax, or rapeseed wax. These vegan alternatives offer clean and slow-burning properties, delightful scents, and environmentally friendly options.
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Stearic acid is common in candles but is derived from animal sources
Vegan candles are made from pure plant-based ingredients, including wax, fragrance/essential oils, and any other raw materials used within the candle. Candles that contain beeswax, tallow (animal fat), paraffin (toxic when burnt), and palm oil are non-vegan.
Stearic acid is a common ingredient in candle-making. It is derived from animal or vegetable fats and oils. It is formed by the hydrolysis of conventional animal or vegetable fats and oils. Using pressing processes, liquid unsaturated fatty acids are separated from solid saturated fatty acids. Chemically, stearic acid is a component of stearin, which was invented by a chemist named Michel-Eugène Chevreul in the 19th century. He discovered that animal tallow, which was used to make candles, was a compound of two fatty acids: stearic acid and oleic acid, combined with glycerin. By removing the glycerin from the tallow compound, Chevreul created stearin.
Stearic acid is used in candle-making for several reasons. Firstly, it acts as a stabiliser and softener. It also functions as a surface lubricant, helping to extract successful products from moulds. When combined with softer waxes like paraffin, stearic acid acts as a hardening agent, improving the overall burning quality of the candle and making it more long-lasting. It also helps to reduce drips and smoking, as candles made with stearic acid burn with smaller, neater flames.
Stearic acid is available in powder or pellet form and has a whitish colour and greasy texture. It is less expensive than synthetic waxes and oils. When added to the wax, it shrinks in size as it cools, making it easier to remove the finished candle from the mould. It also improves the appearance of the candle, giving it a brilliant colour.
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Frequently asked questions
A vegan candle is made from pure plant-based ingredients, including wax, fragrance/essential oils, and any other raw materials used within the candle.
Soy wax, coconut wax, rapeseed wax, and palm wax are all derived from plants and are therefore considered vegan.
No, gel wax is not derived from plants and is therefore not considered vegan.
