Hand-poured in the Mediterranean seaside city of Sliema

Many have asked us this question, so we've put together some info (backed up by science, of course!). Traditionally, most candles are made from paraffin wax. This is a cheaper material than soy wax, but there are many reasons why we've chosen to craft our candles from pure 100% soy wax.

Paraffin wax derives from petroleum, and it is made by separating the waxy substance from crude oil. Soy wax, on the other hand, derives from soybeans, and it is a hydrogenated form of soybean oil which hardens at room temperature. Since soybeans can be grown, soy wax is a sustainable wax. Conversely, fossil fuels cannot be renewed, making paraffin wax unsustainable..

Studies have shown that while all candles emit some soot, given the same conditions (length of the wick, presence of a draft, etc.), a paraffin candle will emit more soot than a soy candle. This dark soot can sometimes find its way onto walls, furniture, and curtains. This will not happen with soy candles, as they have a much cleaner burn. Paraffin wax has also been found to contain various toxins, which are not found in soy wax.

All things being equal, a soy candle will burn anywhere between 30 - 50 % longer than a paraffin candle. Again, this depends on the height and width of the candle, the length of the wick, air circulation, and other factors.

Paraffin wax melts somewhere between 49-71°C. Soy wax has a lower melting point than that, making it easier to burn in cooler environments or during colder seasons. It can even melt on its own on a hot Maltese summer day. This lower melting point also means there's a decreased risk of burning oneself if the candle gets knocked over.

Because of its low melting point and natural origins, soy wax can be rubbed into the skin leaving it smooth and supple. Next time you burn one of our scented candles, try saving some of the melted wax to rub onto your skin!

Although it is slightly pricier than paraffin wax, soy wax offers so many benefits, not only for our health but also for the environment. So now that you know some of the many reasons why soy wax is better, next time you spot wax products that are labelled as having "100% soy wax" you'll know exactly why that matters!