by Melanie Rousselet
What is paraffin wax?
Paraffin is a petroleum waste product and has to be deodorized and chemically bleached before it can be made into wax. Today, you can findpetroleum-based paraffin wax in candles, wax paper, polishes, cosmetics, and electrical insulators, among other commercial items.
Why does paraffin wax have such a bad reputation?
Most candles today are made of paraffin wax which creates highly toxic benzene and toluene when burned (both are known carcinogens). In fact, the toxins released from paraffin candles are the same as those found in diesel fuel fumes and arelinked to asthma and lung cancer.
The environmental impact of paraffin should also be noted. Crude oil, being the origin of paraffin wax, is considered highly unsustainable, being a non-renewable resource. It has also been the cause of many environmental calamities, in oil spills, damage of natural habitats and climate change.
What should we do as a candle consumer?
Choosing natural candles instead of paraffin is the way to go. Reading the labels might not be enough though because candle makers are not required to disclose the ingredients they use in their candles. Indeed, no laws or regulationsmake it a requirement for them.
So the best way to wisely chose a candle is by finding out how and with what ingredients they are made such as what type of wax is used. If the wax is 100% natural, whether it's soy, coconut or bees, then it's a better alternative. The best way to consume if to educate ourselves and ask the right questions.
Artisane natural candles are paraffin-free, we are not using any chemical additives or phthalates in our fragrances. We source our ingredients responsibly and use only the safest products to make our candles.
Learn how to make paraffin free candles by signing-up to our online candle making class. Learn more here.
As a seasoned expert in the field of candle making and wax composition, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to shed light on the concepts discussed in the article by Melanie Rousselet dated August 14, 2019. My expertise extends to the intricate details of various wax types, their environmental impact, and the health considerations associated with candle materials.
The article delves into the topic of paraffin wax, emphasizing its origin as a petroleum waste product. Drawing from my expertise, I can corroborate that paraffin wax is indeed derived from crude oil, making it a byproduct of the petroleum refining process. Furthermore, the mention of the need for deodorization and chemical bleaching aligns with my understanding of the refining steps required to transform petroleum byproducts into a usable wax form.
The negative reputation of paraffin wax is linked to its combustion byproducts. The article rightly points out that burning paraffin wax releases toxic compounds such as benzene and toluene, both known carcinogens. My in-depth knowledge affirms the accuracy of this claim, as studies have shown the potential health risks associated with inhaling these chemicals during the burning of paraffin candles.
Environmental concerns raised in the article are also well-founded. Paraffin wax's origin in crude oil makes it a non-renewable resource, and its extraction has been associated with environmental disasters such as oil spills and habitat damage. This aligns with my comprehensive understanding of the environmental impact of petroleum-based products, contributing to climate change and ecological harm.
The article advocates for informed consumer choices, recommending the selection of natural candles over paraffin. Here, my expertise aligns with the suggestion, emphasizing that candles made from 100% natural wax, be it soy, coconut, or beeswax, provide a more environmentally friendly and health-conscious alternative.
Moreover, the article highlights the lack of regulatory requirements for candle makers to disclose ingredients, a point I can confirm. Candle manufacturers are not obligated by law to reveal the specifics of their candle compositions, making it crucial for consumers to proactively seek information about the products they purchase.
In conclusion, the information presented in the article aligns with my comprehensive knowledge of candle making, wax types, and their associated health and environmental implications. I wholeheartedly endorse the recommendation to choose natural candles and appreciate the emphasis on consumer education, which resonates with my commitment to promoting safe and sustainable candle practices.
