Natural Candles vs. Chemical Candles
To create a warm atmosphere, make your home smell wonderful, escape through scent, or simply enjoy soft lighting, we all love lighting a candle—especially during autumn and winter for that cozy, cocooning feeling.
But beware: not all candles are created equal. Some can even be harmful to your health.
So what are the real differences between natural and chemical candles?
And how can you choose a candle that is safe for you and your home?
We explain everything below.
1. Natural Candles respect your Health
Always choose candles made from natural waxes, such as beeswax or soy wax. Beeswax is a natural substance produced by bees, while soy wax is derived from soybeans. Candles made from natural waxes produce very little smoke and release fewer harmful substances when burned.
In contrast, many conventional candles are made from paraffin, a byproduct of crude oil refining. Paraffin is cheaper to produce, which explains its widespread use—but it comes at a cost.
When paraffin burns, it can release potentially toxic chemicals into the air, including benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, acrolein, and other indoor air pollutants. Inhaling these substances may lead to respiratory irritation, allergies, headaches, dizziness, and skin irritation. Poor indoor air quality is directly linked to numerous health issues.
Additionally, paraffin is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource, and its widespread use contributes to our ongoing dependence on fossil fuels.
Our advice: always check the composition of a candle before buying it.
2. Natural Candles burn Longer
Natural candles tend to burn more slowly and evenly than chemical candles, which means they last longer. While they may seem like a higher investment at first, they are actually more cost-effective over time.
3. Natural Candles smell Better
Natural candles offer a soft, authentic fragrance, thanks to the use of essential oils, high-quality perfumes (often made in France), or the natural scent of the wax itself.
Chemical candles, on the other hand, are often scented with synthetic fragrances, which can trigger allergic reactions or discomfort for sensitive individuals
4. Natural Candles are more Eco-Friendly
Natural candles are a more environmentally responsible choice. Soy wax comes from a renewable plant source, and beeswax production supports bees—essential pollinators that play a crucial role in biodiversity.
Paraffin candles are non-renewable and contribute to the carbon footprint of the oil industry, making them far less sustainable.
5. Natural Candles are made Ethically
The production of natural candles is often linked to more ethical practices. Beekeepers who produce beeswax are generally committed to protecting bees and their habitats. Likewise, natural candle makers tend to be more transparent about the origin of their raw materials and their manufacturing processes.