Is the ever-popular soy wax really the best? For us, it is the most well-rounded and the most cost-effective. Why? Read on! Its many strengths make it a valuable ally for making quality scented container and moulded candles. We will explore the benefits, uses and properties of soy wax, along with the precautions to take to get the very best out of it.
Where soy comes from and how it is produced
Soy wax is a plant-based wax made from soybean oil, soy being a protein-rich plant that is good for your health. It contains polyunsaturated fatty acids. The soybeans themselves are grown in South America, notably in Argentina and Brazil; for our waxes, they are processed into wax in the United States or in Europe.
The wax grew in popularity in the 1990s as an alternative to beeswax that was more stable and affordable, and kinder to the environment than paraffin. It is made through a hydrogenation process that gives it a firm consistency.
The strengths of soy wax
Soy wax is widely recognised as one of the best options for candle making, and for many reasons. It stands out for its great versatility, adapting to a wide range of uses, whether moulded candles, container candles or even scented wax melts.
What's more, its exceptional ability to hold and release fragrance makes it a favourite for anyone looking for quality scented creations that respect the environment.
Soy wax has many advantages. It burns more slowly, and it is also easy to clean up with hot water and kitchen paper.
Remember, too, that soy wax gives off very little soot and very few toxins as it burns.
The different uses of soy wax
Soy wax is a responsible alternative to any type of wax. It is often produced without pesticides, and some waxes, such as C3, are guaranteed free from any trace of GMOs.
It is ideal for every kind of creation! Depending on the wax, you can make container candles, moulded candles or massage candles, as well as wax melts and some cosmetics. It comes in flakes or pellets.
We strongly recommend storing it at room temperature, away from heat, moisture and light.
Here are the renowned soy waxes in our range:
Cargill C3 wax: pros and cons
Here is what this C3 wax brings to your creations:
- It is ideal for making scented container candles, as it offers many benefits. It is the most versatile wax, letting you make almost every kind of wax creation.
- This soy wax is pure, for a flawless surface finish.
- Saves time, as only one pour is needed.
- Its melting point of 51°C makes it quick and easy to work with.
- Excellent scent throw that does not alter the fragrance, as the wax itself is odourless.
- Ensures a bright, lively flame throughout the candle's burn time.
- Works with any type of container, whether glass, ceramic or metal.
- Guarantees a flawless hold with very good adhesion.
- Biodegradable and not tested on animals.
However, it also has some drawbacks:
- It is recommended to blend this wax with 10% stearin and to pour it with the fragrance at 75°C. This makes it a little less straightforward to use.
- It is not suitable for making moulded candles. For scented wax melts, it needs to be combined with 5% beeswax.
Kerax 4130 wax: pros and cons
Discover the benefits of this ready-to-use wax, perfect for beginners:
- It is ideal for making scented container candles. It is ready to use straight out of the bag.
- 100% plant-based and not tested on animals. It is biodegradable and vegan: no animal products were used and no animal testing was carried out during its manufacture.
- Easy to handle and pour. Suitable for beginners.
- Fragrances come through perfectly.
- Long-lasting.
- Excellent adhesion to glass.
- Does not alter the candle's fragrance.
- Odourless.
- Melts completely.
- Containers are easy to clean.
- Eco-friendly.
- It is made in Europe
A few drawbacks:
- It is best to use a quality fragrance so as not to affect how the candle burns. Our fragrances are a perfect match.
- This wax is not suitable for making scented wax melts or moulded candles.
Kerax 4120 wax: pros and cons
The benefits of this wax designed for moulded candles and wax melts:
- It is easy to use for making moulded candles and wax melts in silicone, latex, polycarbonate and metal moulds.
- It does not release toxic substances and gives off no smoke or odour.
- It offers excellent scent throw for making moulded candles or scented wax melts.
- It is biodegradable and vegan: no animal products were used and no animal testing was carried out during its manufacture.
- It is suitable for making moulded candles and wax melts.
- It is made in Europe.
Just one drawback:
- You need to stick to a melting temperature of 75 to 77°C to add the fragrance, and a pouring temperature of 55 to 65°C, for the best results.
What is the melting point of soy wax?
The melting point varies depending on the wax you use!
- C3: 51°C.
- 4130 Kerax (container candle): 42–48°C.
- 4120 Kerax (moulded candle): 57–63°C.
Can you colour soy wax?
Yes. In most cases, you can absolutely colour your soy wax candles. The dye should be added while the wax is heating, at 70°C or above, and stirred well for an even spread of colour. This step must come before you add the fragrance.
- For solid dye chips, the recommended dosage is around 5 g per kg of wax (0.5%).
- For liquid dyes, the recommended dosage is 15 mL per kg of wax.
A soy wax candle will take on a more pastel shade than a paraffin one. For an even colour, we recommend adding 5% stearin.
Conclusion
In short, soy wax is a plant-based, sustainable alternative. It comes from the oil of soybeans grown in South America, and the waxes in our range are made in the United States or in Europe. It is used in a range of applications, notably candle and wax melt making. Our soy waxes are also eco-friendly and not tested on animals.
It is important to take a few precautions when using it, such as storing it away from heat, moisture and light, otherwise you may run into quality problems. Finally, if you would like another plant-based, sustainable alternative, you can opt for rapeseed wax, which has many benefits. It is, however, slightly more technical to work with than soy wax.
