Natural Candles: How to Choose One?
Lighting a scented candle in a bedroom or living room is a delightful treat for the nose and the mind. Who doesn’t enjoy dining by candlelight? A decorative item that sets the mood, a candle consists of two parts: a fatty substance—usually wax—and a wick that runs through it from one end to the other.
However, these two components are often synthetically produced, and several acids and other chemicals are added to them. So, why is it better to choose a natural candle? What criteria should you use when choosing one?
Why should you choose a natural candle over a paraffin candle?
Most candles sold in stores are made from paraffin. Derived from petroleum, this inexpensive wax remains a source of pollution when it melts. In fact, the candle releases toxic volatile organic compounds (benzene, acetone, toluene) as soon as it is lit. Furthermore, products from the petrochemical industry require significant amounts of embodied energy and water during oil extraction and subsequent processing. In addition, these types of candles typically use synthetic fragrances, which can be potentially harmful to human health.
Palm wax candles: natural, but harmful to biodiversity
Other candles are made from palm wax. Although it is a plant-based and 100% natural wax, palm wax is derived from palm oil. However, the cultivation of oil palms leads to the deforestation of entire regions. This is a true catastrophe for global biodiversity. It is therefore best to avoid candles made from palm wax.
On the contrary, the ingredients in other natural candles are beneficial to both human health and the planet. Natural waxes are renewable or easily biodegradable, posing no danger to the environment.
Choosing a Natural Candle: The Quality of the Wax
Above all, a natural candle stands out for the quality of its wax. While synthetic candles are made from hydrocarbon-based wax, natural candles are made from plant- or animal-based waxes.
Plant-based waxes
Plant-based wax comes from natural, renewable sources. It is completely eco-friendly and contains no harmful substances. Natural and organic candles, meanwhile, contain no pesticide or herbicide residues. High-quality plant-based wax has a low melting point, which extends its burn time. Here are some examples of high-quality plant-based waxes.
- Soy wax candles. These are among the most common natural candles available on the market. Soy wax is white in color and is derived from hydrogenated soybean oil. However, it’s best to choose organic soy wax to avoid GMOs. Soybeans, which are primarily grown in China, Brazil, and the United States, have a poor carbon footprint. It’s best to opt for soy wax grown in France.
- Candles made from rapeseed wax. Although rapeseed wax is more difficult to produce—and therefore more expensive—it has the advantage of being sourced from Europe.
Animal waxes
In the past, nearly all candles were made from animal sources. The wax came mainly from whale or sperm whale blubber. Fortunately, these magnificent animals are now protected species. As a result, candles made from animal wax have almost completely disappeared, with the exception of those made from beeswax. Beeswax candles are dark yellow in color and tend to be quite expensive. Be sure to choose a handmade, locally produced beeswax candle. Many of them come from China. You should also make sure the candle is made from 100% beeswax. Some are mixed with paraffin.
Natural Candles: Choosing the Wick
Just like wax, a candle wick can be synthetic or natural. There are two types of natural wicks: cotton wicks and wooden wicks.
The label on a natural candle must clearly state that the wick is made of 100% cotton. This ensures that the candle burns without emitting toxic fumes and is lead-free. Generally, the cotton wick is saturated with wax, which makes it easy to light and ensures a long-lasting burn. Similarly, there are wicks made of linen or hemp, although these are rather rare.
Nevertheless, the dominant trend remains candles with wooden wicks. This material is particularly well-suited to plant-based waxes. A wooden wick crackles, adding extra charm and a “campfire” feel to the candle. Furthermore, wood is easier to source from France than cotton.
Choosing a Natural Candle: Scent and Color
Natural candles are often chosen for their scent. The choice of fragrance—that is, the pleasant scent—that emanates from the candle depends on each person’s tastes and preferences. In a natural scented candle, the fragrance is mixed directly into the wax during the manufacturing process. However, it’s important to note that the scents of a candle often come from synthetic fragrances. Some manufacturers use essential oils, most of which release CMRs (chemicals with carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reprotoxic effects). Ideally, a natural candle should be unscented. Otherwise, candles with a fragrance guaranteed to be CMR-free are still acceptable.
Are candle displays colorful and visually appealing? Above all, they indicate that these candles contain dyes—whether powdered or liquid—that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other additives. Some artisans make their candles using plant-based dyes. Beeswax candles, on the other hand, have a natural orange-yellow color. The best choice? Opt for a white candle that’s eco-friendly and healthy.
To fully embrace an ecological and ethical approach, choosing a natural, handcrafted, and 100% locally made candle is the best solution. This avoids using a candle made from wax sourced from a distant country, whose quality is uncertain and which poses a risk of polluting the indoor air in the room where the candle is lit.
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