Perfectly Imperfect Wax

Soy is what I call my perfectly imperfect wax for reasons explained in my previous post. It is safe from allergens, doesn't give off soot and burns slower and cleaner than other waxes. However, there are some cosmetic issues when using soy. These issues do not change the burn of the candle but can sometimes be an eye sore compared to what you would see in a department store candle. 

Majority of the candles that are purchased at retail stores or chains are made using beeswax or paraffin wax. These waxes do give the candle a smoother finish and cosmetically look great. But they do give off allergens. 

My jar candles are 100% pure soy wax which means you may see air bubbles/lumpy tops, frosting and maybe a cake-like look. 

Air Bubbles/Lumpy Tops

Air may get trapped into the wax during the mix and pour process. It is not something I try to let stay and there are times I can catch and prevent it but I want my customers to know what this is if you see it. If air gets trapped, it could be the temperature that I poured the wax. This is science so air can create a cosmetic error but doesn't affect the scent or burn of the candle. Here are images of what air can look like. 

Frosting

Frosting is very common when using soy wax. Frosting looks like snowflakes or crystals and it's definitely caused by the temperature that the soy is poured at. I try my best to catch it by not pouring the wax too hot or too cold but there are circumstances that also play a factor into this. The room temperature, the fragrance and the dye can all assist with frosting. Again, this is science and frosting will not affect how the candle burns or smell. Here's an image of what frosting looks like.

Cake-Like Look

I call this the cake like look because that is how soy can look after being burned and then cooling off to solidify. It's a common trait of soy wax that's caused by the wax pool (melted wax) cooling unevenly when the flame is blown out. It does not affect the performance of the candle but it does prove you have a true 100% soy wax candle. Here's an image of this cake-like appearance. 

If you see any of these imperfect appearances, then you know you are getting a pure soy candle. I do not use additives so I can't 100% prevent some of these "issue" from happening. What I can promise is a allergen free soy candle.