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Basically, there are 3 types of waxes used today to make candles: Beeswax, Paraffin, and Soy.

Paraffin – A petroleum by-product. Paraffin wax is what remains after the petroleum refinement process. It is black sludge that has whitener ( chemical ) and hardener ( chemical ) added to it just so that it can be used to make a candle. Further, it usually has color added ( chemical ) and fragrance ( chemical ). And, until recently used wicking that was proven to be toxic in and of itself. As far back as 1956 experts agreed that inhaling this combination was lethal. In “Colliers Year Book Encyclopedia” – 1956 Edition under the word “Cancer” there is a list of 14 causative materials known to cause cancer. Soot, paraffin oil, derivatives of petroleum, and aromatic amines (chemical fragrances) make up 4 of these 14. All are properties of paraffin.

Soy – Typically comes in jars or tins. Almost always has chemical fragrances and color added. The EPA found that the smoke and soot that these candles give off contain carcinogens, neurotoxins and reproductive toxins. In addition, Soy must be hydrogenated in order for it to become wax. This process requires the use of metals which remain in the wax and are released into the atmosphere when burned.

BEESWAX - All natural by-product of the honeybee. Beeswax is non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, hypo – allergenic, naturally honey scented, burns longer than any other wax, and is virtually dripless.

Summerfield Candles are always only pure beeswax candles.