Best Wax for Beginners: Soy vs Paraffin

Choosing the right wax is one of the most important steps for beginners in candle making. The type of wax you choose affects your candle’s burn time, fragrance throw, appearance, and even safety. For hobbyists and small business candle makers, the two most common options are soy wax and paraffin wax. This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and technical details of each wax, helping you decide which is best for your candles.

What Is Soy Wax?

Soy wax is a natural, vegetable-based wax made from soybean oil. It has become a favorite among beginner candle makers due to its clean burn, low soot production, and ease of handling. Soy wax typically has a melt point between 120°F and 180°F, depending on the blend, and requires careful attention to pour temperature and cure time to maximize hot throw.

Benefits of Soy Wax

• Eco-friendly: Renewable plant-based source
  
• Cleaner burn: Produces less soot than paraffin
  
• Longer burn time: Lower melting point helps candles burn slowly
  
• Beginner-friendly: Less likely to overheat or burn unevenly
  
• Works well in containers: Ideal for jar candles and tins
  

Potential Drawbacks

• Frosting / texture issues: Soy candles sometimes develop a frosted surface or rough tops
  
• Cure time required: Typically needs 1–2 weeks to fully cure for optimal fragrance throw
  
• Weaker hot throw without additives: Some makers add vybar or a small amount of paraffin to improve scent release
  

What Is Paraffin Wax?

Paraffin wax is a petroleum-derived wax that has been used in candle making for decades. It is known for strong scent throw, smooth appearance, and reliable performance. Paraffin wax typically has a melt point between 125°F and 150°F and is easy to use for a variety of candle types, including pillars and votives.

Benefits of Paraffin Wax

• Strong scent throw: Both hot and cold throw perform well
  
• Smooth finish: Easier to achieve flat tops and clean edges
  
• Consistent performance: Reliable melt pool and burn behavior
  
• Affordable: Often lower cost per pound than soy
  

Potential Drawbacks

• Non-renewable: Made from petroleum
  
• Soot production: May produce more smoke if wick size or type is not matched properly
  
• Environmental and health considerations: Some users avoid paraffin due to VOC concerns
  

Soy vs Paraffin: Comparison Table

Blending Soy and Paraffin

Some beginners find that a blend of soy and paraffin offers the best of both worlds. A common mix is 75% paraffin, 25% soy, which can improve surface finish while maintaining a cleaner burn. Adding wax additives like vybar can further reduce frosting or shrinkage and improve fragrance throw.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

• Weak hot throw (soy): Ensure proper cure time, maintain pour temperature, and use the right wick type for your container.
  
• Surface frosting (soy): Consider using additives like vybar, or try blending with paraffin.
  
• Soot or smoke (paraffin): Check wick size and vessel type; ensure proper melt pool development.
  
• Uneven burn pool: Match wick type to wax and candle diameter for even melting.
  

Which Wax Is Best for Beginners?

• Choose Soy Wax if: You value eco-friendliness, clean burning, and ease of use. Ideal for container candles and beginners experimenting at home.
  
• Choose Paraffin Wax if: You want strong scent throw and smooth finish with more control over the candle’s burn behavior. Best for decorative pillars and highly scented candles.
  
• Try a blend if: You want a balance of both properties, especially if you’re learning the ropes or selling small batches.

FAQs

Q: Can I mix soy and paraffin?
A: Yes, blending is common. A typical beginner ratio is 75% paraffin and 25% soy, which improves burn performance and surface finish.

Q: How long should soy candles cure?
A: Typically 1–2 weeks for optimal hot throw. Cure time can vary based on wax type and fragrance load.

Q: Why do soy candles develop frosting?
A: Frosting occurs naturally due to the crystallization of soy wax. Adding vybar or a small percentage of paraffin can reduce frosting.

Q: Which wax produces the strongest fragrance throw?
A: Paraffin generally provides a stronger hot and cold scent throw, but soy can match performance with the right fragrance oil load and cure time.

Choose the Right Wax for Your Next Candle

Choosing between soy wax and paraffin wax doesn’t have to be complicated. For beginners, soy offers a clean, eco-friendly option, while paraffin delivers strong scent throw and smooth finishes. You can even experiment with blends to get the best of both worlds.

At Candlewic, we offer a wide selection of high-quality soy and paraffin waxes, along with wicks, fragrance oils, and candle-making supplies to help you create beautiful candles every time.

Start experimenting today and discover which wax works best for your style and candles!