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What is the difference between soy and paraffin wax?

  • Updated

Here are the major differences between the two types of wax:

Paraffin Wax

  • Discovered in 1850
  • A natural product derived from the components of decayed animal and plant material
  • Made by removing the waxy substance from crude oil
  • Most popular kind of wax used in candle making
  • Easy to use
  • Non-toxic, colorless, clean-burning fuel
  • Has a clearly defined large crystal structure and a melting point usually between 120-160°F
  • Tends to be hard and brittle

Soy Wax

  • Discovered in 1991 as an alternative to paraffin wax
  • Natural, renewable, non-toxic and biodegradable 
  • Hydrogenated form of soybean oil
  • Available in flake form and has an off-white appearance
  • Has a lower melting point than paraffin
  • Commercial soy wax blends tend to be softer than paraffin and will melt in warm weather
  • Burns longer and at a cooler temperature than paraffin wax
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