Candle Wax...why I use soy

When I decided I wanted to make candles, it was for the sole purpose to use at home. But when I started doing my research, I learned way more than I bargained for. The majority of the candles that are sold at retail stores are made with chemicals (wax) that can be harmful or simply irritating, I knew I wanted to make candles that smelled good and would keep their scent throughout the burn process but I also wanted something that would be safe. Now there are three primary waxes to make candles with: beeswax, paraffin and soy. I selected soy because it didn't produce soot, doesn't irritate an individuals allergies and has the ability to absorb pure fragrance oils. 

Beeswax

Pros: 

• Non-hazardous
• Dyes are not tested on animals
• Solvent free
• Does not contain hazardous additives such as naphtha or naphthalene
• We use a minute amount of dye in our candles, less than 0.0125%
• None of the components in the dye is required to be listed in the California Proposition 65 list of cancer causing agents
• Can be shipped in all weather conditions because of its high melt point

Cons:

• Considered pricier than other waxes
• Beeswax can be combined with other waxes to reduce manufacturing costs so it can be difficult to find 100% beeswax

Paraffin

Pros:

• Inexpensive (about 9 times less than beeswax)

Cons:

• Non-Renewable
• It's a by-product of fossil fuels
• It's equivalent to inhaling exhaust fumes
• Creates a large amount of black sticky soot
• Polymers are added to raise the melting point and improve burning qualities
• Known to drip
• Inability to use authentic scents

Soy

Pros:

• Renewable resource
• No known toxins in the raw wax
• Biodegradable
• Low melt temperature
• Non-carcinogenic

Cons:

• Soy products are commonly Genetically Modified, bleached and hydrogenated
• Aesthetically, soy wax is not pretty and candles often develop bumps and lesions while burning
• Soy wax goes rancid without preservatives
• Limited type of candle can be made because the wax is so soft. Unable to make pillars, tapers or ornamentals
• Soy wax is difficult to ship during hot weather because it will melt

I highly suggest anyone interested in making candles, do your research. I'm still learning everyday. 

Hope this article helped to explain why I selected soy and if any products are made with anything other, it will be listed.