Soy wax has become an increasingly popular choice for candle and wax melt makers, particularly those looking for a more natural and environmentally friendly alternative. It is renewable, biodegradable and burns more cleanly than many traditional waxes. However, working with soy wax can present a number of challenges, especially for beginners. Issues such as frosting, wet spots and uneven finishes are common and can be frustrating.
Understanding why these problems occur — and how to prevent or minimise them — can make all the difference. Below, we explore the most common issues associated with soy wax and practical ways to resolve them.
1. Frosting (White, Crystalline Marks)
What is frosting?
Frosting appears as white, chalky or crystal-like patterns on the surface or sides of soy candles and wax melts. It is one of the most common characteristics of soy wax.
Why it happens
Soy wax is made from hydrogenated soybean oil, which naturally forms crystals as it cools. Changes in temperature during cooling or storage can encourage this crystallisation.
How to reduce frosting
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Pour at a lower temperature (typically between 49–60°C, depending on the wax).
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Allow candles to cool slowly in a warm, draught-free environment.
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Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations after pouring.
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Consider using soy blends or approved additives designed to reduce frosting.
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Alternatively, embrace frosting as a natural feature of soy wax rather than a flaw.
Frosting is purely cosmetic and does not affect the burn performance or scent throw.
2. Wet Spots (Poor Adhesion to Containers)
What are wet spots?
Wet spots appear as areas where the wax has pulled away from the glass container, giving the illusion of moisture or air pockets.
Why it happens
All waxes contract as they cool. If the container cools faster than the wax, the wax may shrink away from the glass.
How to minimise wet spots
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Pre-warm glass containers before pouring.
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Pour at a consistent, appropriate temperature.
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Allow candles to cool slowly and evenly.
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Use thicker glass containers, which retain heat better.
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Avoid moving candles during the cooling process.
3. Sinkholes and Uneven Surfaces
What causes sinkholes?
Sinkholes often form around the wick as the wax cools and contracts. If the surface hardens too quickly, the wax underneath can collapse.
How to fix sinkholes
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Pour slightly cooler to prevent rapid surface setting.
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Pierce relief holes around the wick and carry out a second pour.
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Keep a small amount of wax aside for top-up pours.
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Use a heat gun to gently smooth the surface if needed.
4. Rough, Cracked or Bumpy Tops
Why it happens
This issue is usually caused by pouring at the wrong temperature or cooling the candle too quickly.
Solutions
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Follow the manufacturer’s recommended pouring temperature.
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Maintain a stable room temperature (around 21–24°C).
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Use a heat gun to lightly re-melt the surface for a smooth finish.
5. Weak Scent Throw (Cold or Hot)
Why it happens
Soy wax does not hold fragrance oil as strongly as paraffin wax, making technique especially important.
How to improve scent throw
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Add fragrance oil at the correct temperature (usually around 77–85°C).
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Stir gently but thoroughly for at least two minutes.
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Use the recommended fragrance load (typically 6–10%).
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Allow adequate curing time — soy candles often need 1–2 weeks.
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Use fragrance oils specifically formulated for soy wax.
6. Discolouration
Why it happens
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Certain fragrance oils, particularly those containing vanilla
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Exposure to UV light
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Overheating the wax
How to prevent it
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Use a UV inhibitor where appearance is important.
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Store finished products away from direct sunlight.
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Avoid overheating the wax during melting and pouring.
7. Brittle Wax Melts or Chipping
Why it happens
Soy wax can become brittle if poured too cool or if the formulation lacks flexibility.
Solutions
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Pour wax melts at a slightly higher temperature.
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Use soy wax blends specifically designed for wax melts.
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Add approved softening additives if necessary.
Final Thoughts
Soy wax is an excellent natural option, but it does require careful handling and consistent testing. Many of the issues associated with soy wax are simply part of its natural behaviour. By controlling temperatures, slowing the cooling process and understanding your chosen wax, most problems can be significantly reduced.
With patience and the right techniques, soy candles and wax melts can be attractive, effective and environmentally friendly products.
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