What's in Your Candle? The Ultimate Guide to Candle Wax Types
When it comes to picking the perfect candle, most people focus on fragrance or design. But there’s something else that matters just as much—the wax. Not all candle waxes are created equal, and the type of wax used can affect everything from burn time and scent throw to air quality.
At Eugenie & Wells, we hand-pour every candle using 100% soy wax. Why? Because it’s cleaner, longer-lasting, and better for you and the planet. In this guide, we’re breaking down the most common types of candle wax, so you can shop smarter and breathe easier.
The Most Common Types of Candle Wax
Paraffin Wax
Overview: Paraffin is the most widely used candle wax because it’s inexpensive and widely available. It’s a byproduct of petroleum, which means it’s not renewable or eco-friendly.
Pros: Strong scent throw, widely available
Cons: Can release toxins and soot, shorter burn time, not biodegradable
Bottom line: If you’ve ever bought a candle that burned super fast or left black residue on your wall—chances are, it was paraffin.
Beeswax
Overview: Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees. It burns cleanly and has a faint, honey-like aroma even when unscented.
Pros: Natural, long-burning, drip-resistant
Cons: Expensive, limited scent throw, not vegan
Bottom line: Beeswax is a beautiful option if you want a completely natural candle, but it’s not ideal for those seeking strong fragrance or vegan-friendly options.
Coconut Wax
Overview: Made from cold-pressed coconut meat, coconut wax is creamy and luxurious. It has a slow, clean burn but is often blended with soy or paraffin to hold its shape.
Pros: Clean burn, excellent scent throw, sustainable
Cons: Expensive, usually mixed with other waxes
Bottom line: Lovely and sustainable, but rarely used on its own.
Soy Wax (Our Favorite)
Overview: Soy wax is made from soybeans, a renewable, plant-based resource. It’s the wax of choice here at Eugenie & Wells for a reason—or several.
Pros:
Clean-burning: Less soot, fewer toxins
Longer burn time: Burns up to 50% longer than paraffin
Better scent balance: Holds fragrance beautifully without being overpowering
Eco-friendly: Renewable, biodegradable, and cruelty-free
Cons: Slightly softer wax, can sometimes frost (a natural visual effect that doesn’t impact performance)
Bottom line: Soy wax offers the best of all worlds—cleaner air, longer candle life, and a gentle, consistent scent experience.
Why We Use 100% Soy Wax at Eugenie & Wells
We’re passionate about crafting candles that feel good and do good. Our soy wax is:
Non-toxic and vegan-friendly
Sourced from American-grown soybeans
Blended with high-quality fragrance oils for a beautiful scent that fills your space without overpowering it
Free of paraffin, dyes, and phthalates
We don’t just want our candles to be beautiful. We want them to be safe, thoughtful, and aligned with our values—and yours.
Choose Better Wax, Breathe Better Air
The next time you shop for a candle, check the label. Whether you’re after a clean burn, a longer-lasting glow, or something kinder to the environment, soy wax candles are a smart, sustainable choice.
At Eugenie & Wells, we’re proud to offer candles that smell incredible, burn beautifully, and bring a little luxury into your every day—without compromising your health or your values.
Ready to make the switch? Explore our soy wax candle collection here.
