What Are Paraffin-Free Candles (and Why You Should Never Go Back)
- Dave Shillingford
- Jan 15
- 3 min read
If you're someone who values clean living, mindfulness, or simply wants a healthier home environment, there's one ingredient you might not have questioned enough: paraffin wax.
Found in the majority of mainstream candles, paraffin is inexpensive and widely used, but at what cost?
At Lily-Rose Candles Co., we believe you deserve better. Here's why paraffin-free candles aren't just a trend, they’re a wellness choice you’ll never regret.
What Is Paraffin Wax?
Paraffin wax is a by-product of petroleum refinement. It’s colourless, odourless, and inexpensive, making it a popular base for mass-produced candles.
But while it holds scent well and looks appealing, paraffin comes with serious concerns:
It’s a fossil fuel derivative, making it unsustainable.
When burned, it can release toxins like toluene and benzene, known respiratory irritants and potential carcinogens.
It may leave soot and residue on your walls and indoor air.
In short? It looks pretty, but it might be polluting your space.
The Health and Environmental Impact of Paraffin Candles.
Several studies have raised questions about the indoor air quality risks of paraffin wax candles. Prolonged use in poorly ventilated spaces may contribute to respiratory issues, allergies, or simply an unpleasant post-burn smell.
On top of that, paraffin isn’t biodegradable and contributes to fossil fuel dependency, meaning it’s just as bad for the planet as it may be for your lungs.
What Makes a Candle Paraffin-Free?
A paraffin-free more natural candle uses natural waxes like:
Beeswax - our wax of choice for its clean burn, natural aroma, and spiritual symbolism.
Coconut wax - slow-burning and sustainable.
Soy wax - plant-based, though often genetically modified and less clean-burning than beeswax.
To learn more and see how these waxes compare and which one is the right one for you, visit our beeswax candles page.
At Lily-Rose, we use only 100% BP-grade beeswax, blended with therapeutic-grade essential oils and infused with healing crystals. No paraffin. No synthetic fragrance. Ever.
Benefits of Paraffin-Free Candles.
1. Cleaner Burn.
Natural waxes burn more cleanly, producing minimal soot and no harsh chemical by-products.
2. Better for Sensitive Lungs.
Especially important for those with asthma, allergies, or pets in the home.
3. Eco-Friendly.
Beeswax is a renewable resource and biodegradable. We package our candles in recyclable tins and jars.
4. Longer Burn Time.
Beeswax burns slower than paraffin, giving you more candlelit moments per gram.
5. Naturally Beautiful Scent.
We use only essential oils for fragrance, so your candle smells like nature, not a perfume counter.
Common Myths About Paraffin Candles.
“But I’ve used paraffin candles for years, they’re fine!”
Just because something is common doesn’t mean it’s safe or optimal. The long-term exposure to indoor toxins from paraffin can accumulate, especially in smaller or poorly ventilated spaces.
“Soy is just as good as beeswax, right?”
Soy is better than paraffin, but most soy waxes are hydrogenated and can include additives. Beeswax is natural, non-GMO, and produces negative ions that help purify the air.
“Paraffin candles smell stronger, is that better?”
Paraffin may amplify synthetic fragrances, but that’s not a good thing. These artificial scents often contain phthalates, which are linked to hormonal disruption
Paraffin vs Natural Wax: Quick Comparison.
Feature | Paraffin Wax | Beeswax (Lily-Rose) |
Source | Petroleum by-product | Natural beeswax |
Burn Cleanliness | Produces soot | Clean, minimal soot |
Scent Type | Synthetic fragrance | Essential oils only |
Environmental Impact | Non-renewable | Renewable, biodegradable |
Air Quality | Releases toxins | Purifies air (negative ions) |
Burn Time | Faster burn | Longer-lasting flame |
Why Lily-Rose Candles Are Always Paraffin-Free.
We started Lily-Rose Candles Co. with a mission: to create candles that support emotional healing, spiritual rituals, and holistic wellbeing, without compromising your health or the planet.
That’s why every candle is:
Made with 100% pure beeswax
Scented only with essential oils
Crystal-infused for energetic and emotional support
Hand-poured in small UK batches
Beautifully gift-ready and eco-conscious
Whether you're lighting a candle for love, calm, clarity or intention, know it’s clean, conscious, and crafted with care.
FAQ: Paraffin-Free Candle Questions.
Is soy wax better than paraffin?
Yes, soy is plant-based and cleaner than paraffin, but still not as clean-burning or natural as beeswax.
What’s the healthiest candle wax?
Beeswax is widely regarded as the cleanest and healthiest option. It burns without toxins and even helps purify the air.
Do paraffin-free candles still smell strong enough?
Yes, just in a more natural way. Our candles are scented with pure essential oils, which offer a beautiful, subtle aroma that supports wellbeing without overwhelming the senses. Unlike synthetic fragrance candles, the scent won’t linger harshly or cause headaches, just gentle, therapeutic scent throw.
Ready to make the switch?
Ditch the paraffin. Choose candles that support your wellness as much as your aesthetic.
Because when it comes to your space and your energy, only the purest light will do.
