Natural candles have become a popular alternative to conventional home fragrance, but not all candles labeled “natural” are created with the same care. So what is a ‘natural candle?’

We’re pulling back the curtain on this buzzword to bring you…honesty. The answer goes beyond aesthetics or scent and into how ingredients interact with people, air quality, and the planet. 

And a hint for what’s ahead: Choosing C.L.E.A.N. candles over conventional puts you ahead of the game.

In our view, the “natural” of “natural candles” means kind: kind to the body, kind to the air we breathe, and kind to the systems that produce it. This guide breaks down what actually matters when evaluating candle ingredients — so you can glow with intention, not confusion.

 

The 3 Pillars of a “True” Natural Candle

When assessing the components of candles, the most trustworthy natural candle ingredients fall into three core categories: wax, wick, and scent. Each plays a direct role in how cleanly a candle burns and how it impacts your space.

For a helpful perspective, we deconstructed the popular Lemon Verbena candle – diving into each component and the care of its crafting.

Let’s take them one by one.

 

The Wax: Why “Plant-Based” Is the Gold Standard

Plant based candles rely on waxes derived from renewable botanical sources, unlike conventional candles made with petroleum-derived paraffin. The vegetable wax vs paraffin debate is central to understanding what makes a candle truly natural.

Yes, we’re preachy about paraffin…but disrupting the industry-wide  use of this toxic compound is the founding basis of our mission. Why? Paraffin wax is a byproduct of oil refining. When burned, it can release soot and volatile byproducts into indoor air. Plant-based waxes (such as palm wax or soy wax) burn more cleanly, produce less soot, and come from renewable resources.

That said, not all plant waxes are equal. Palm wax, for example, offers a naturally firm structure, long burn times, and excellent scent throw. However, its association with the controversial palm oil industry may give some of our well-informed readers pause – as it should! 

The basis: Cultivation of oil palm trees across Southeast Asia has become synonymous with deforestation and habitat destruction. And so, we have opted to be a part of the solution, by actively engaging with interventionist programs like Wild Asia’s BIO Farm Initiative, the Round Table on Sustainable Palm Oil, and the Orangutan Land Trust – partners that are helping secure a stable future for all stakeholders of the regenerative oil palm industry. 

We could talk about this topic at length, so we recommend curling up with this article to learn more. And – as always – please reach out with any questions!

 

The Wick: Cotton vs. Metal Core

Lead free wicks are non-negotiable in a truly natural candle, yet they’re still worth calling out. Historically, some candles used metal-core wicks to keep flames upright, which is an outdated practice with real health implications.

Thankfully, the modern standard is cotton. Among the key cotton wick benefits are a steadier flame, lower soot production, and compatibility with plant-based waxes. Learn all about what’s in a wick (and why we should trim it). 

 

The Scent: Essential Oils vs. Synthetics

Essential oil candles rely on botanical extracts rather than lab-created aroma compounds, making them a cornerstone of natural fragrance. By contrast, many conventional candles use synthetic fragrance oils designed to mimic natural scents at scale.

While “nature-identical” fragrances may sound harmless, they’re still synthetics (and often undisclosed as such). Natural fragrance sourced from essential oils tends to create a softer, more balanced scent throw and avoids the mystery ingredients common in mass-market candles.

Ready to explore the scents of actually natural essences? Our beautiful and diverse Scented Collection thought you’d never ask. 

 

What Is Greenwashing: “Natural” vs. “Nature-Identical”

Greenwashing in candles happens when brands use vague language, like “eco-friendly,” “clean,” or “natural,” without full transparency. Its intention is to appeal to “green-grabbers,” shoppers who are eager to feel good about their “green” choices, unfortunately under rather false pretenses.

This marketing practice has made it harder to distinguish truly natural candle brands from those borrowing the language without the substance.

One common tactic is replacing the word “synthetic” with “nature-identical.” While these ingredients may be chemically similar to compounds found in nature, they’re still manufactured in a lab.

How to Read a Candle Label Like a Pro

Understanding candle label ingredients starts with knowing what isn’t listed. Candles aren’t regulated like food or cosmetics, which means ingredient disclosures can be minimal. Look for:

➔ Clear identification of wax type

➔ Explicit mention of lead-free cotton wicks

➔ Transparency around fragrance sources

 The “Blend” Loophole 

The soy wax blend definition is one of the most misunderstood terms in candle labeling. A “blend” can legally include paraffin alongside soy or other plant waxes — sometimes in significant amounts!

And, of course, for an unmistakably clean, crafted option that is actually plant-based, sans-paraffin? You can always count on our best-selling basics in the Unscented Collection. 

 

 

 

 

Why Plant-Based Wax Is the Kindest Choice

The benefits of natural wax extend beyond cleaner air (although that’s certainly a plus). Plant-based waxes support renewable agriculture, biodegradability, and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

When sourced responsibly, palm wax sustainability offers additional advantages: higher melting points, longer burn times, and excellent performance without chemical additives.

Palm Wax vs. Soy Wax: A Quick Comparison

The palm wax vs soy wax conversation often comes down to sourcing and performance. Soy wax is widely available and familiar, but often softer and more prone to tunneling. And if you’re a soy candle consumer, you’ve already come pretty close to committing to “plant-based…” so why not go all the way? Especially to avoid the “Blend” Loophole.

Palm wax, when ethically produced, creates a naturally crystalline structure that supports even burns and elegant finishes.

In the end, natural candles are about honesty. When ingredients are thoughtfully chosen and clearly communicated, “natural” becomes more than a trend. It becomes a quiet act of care — for yourself, your guests, and the air you share.