While most of us are conscious of the desire for a healthier lifestyle through organic foods, natural skin and body products, and even healthier air through smoking bans, not everyone is aware of the possible harmful effects of burning traditional paraffin wax candles in their homes.  Luckily, new soy-based candles are allowing families to burn virtually soot-free candles and still enjoy the lovely light and fragrances that we love in our homes.

Do you know where paraffin wax comes from?

Paraffin is actually a derivative of kerosene.  It is a byproduct of oil production, a sort of "bottom of the barrel" scraping of the oil barrel.  It's not surprising then, that one of the biggest complaints about traditional paraffin candles is the black residue or "soot" left on the containers, nearby walls, and fingers of those who are trying to clean their candles.  Is it any great surprise then, that this same soot would be released into the air that you breathe while enjoying the smell of your candle?  And that that same soot is going to coat any interior surfaces and be possibly absorbed by skin contact?