Are soy wax candles with essential oils safe?

Soy wax candles with essential oils can be safe if made and used correctly, but there are important factors to consider regarding wax quality, essential oil selection, and proper usage. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Safety of Soy Wax

Non-toxic and clean-burning: Soy wax is derived from soybeans, making it a natural, renewable, and biodegradable option. Unlike paraffin wax (a petroleum byproduct), soy wax doesn’t release harmful chemicals like benzene or toluene when burned.

Low soot production: High-quality soy wax burns cleanly with minimal soot, reducing indoor air pollution.

Check for additives: Some "soy wax blend" candles may contain paraffin. Opt for 100% pure soy wax (like BOYUJK’s organic soy wax) to avoid hidden toxins .

Essential Oils in Candles: Risks and Guidelines

Heat Sensitivity:

Essential oils degrade at high temperatures, losing fragrance and potentially releasing irritants. Add oils when wax cools to 135–140°F (57–60°C) to preserve scent and safety .

Citrus oils (e.g., orange, lemon) can become phototoxic when burned, increasing skin sensitivity to sunlight .