What is Candle Frosting?

Have you ever noticed a white crystal coating on your soy wax candles? This is candle frosting and we’re here to let you know it’s a-okay.

When a candle is lit, the heat from the flame travels down the wick and melts the wax. This cyclical combustion process is what keeps the candle burning. Afterwards, when a candle is cool, sometimes the wax tries to return to its original form and begins to crystallize. This is candle frosting.

Candle frosting usually happens when a candle doesn’t cool at a consistent temperature. Any major change in temperature can cause frosting. This includes shipping methods that have candles staying in various places overnight.

Most candlemakers test the wick, fragrance and color combination numerous times to avoid frosting. Preheating the glass before pouring the wax at a low temperature can help as well. Some candle companies (especially large manufacturers) use wax blends instead of pure soy to prevent frosting and extend the shelf life of their candles.

While it can happen with any natural wax, frosting is most commonly seen with soy. And it shows—yahoo!—that your candle is made with 100% pure, natural soy. In fact, soy candle enthusiasts look for frosting to ensure they’re getting pure soy wax and the benefits it touts.

So, next time your candle shows a little frosting, you can rest assured that it’s aesthetics only and won’t impact your candles burning or fragrance in any way.