Candle Myths, Busted: Clearing the Air on Natural Candles

At Sunbeam Candles, we've spent over 20 years handcrafting natural candles with purpose - and in that time, we've heard just about every myth there is. From beeswax rumors to burn misconceptions, we're here to set the record straight. 

If you've ever wondered what's true (and what's just marketing), this one is for you. 

Myth #1: All Natural Candles Are Basically the Same

The word "natural" sounds great - but it's not regulated by the candle industry in the United States. A candle labeled natural might still contain synthetic fragrance oils, petroleum-based wax blends, or wicks with hidden additives.

The truth: Look for candles made with plant-based waxes like beeswax, soy or coconut blends, scented with essential oils, and made without paraffin. Transparency matters. At Sunbeam, we handcraft our candles using only pure ingredients in a shop powered by renewable energy — and we share every ingredient that goes into each one.

Myth #2: A Bigger Flame Means a Better Candle 

It's tempting to think a tall, lively flame means your candle is working exactly as it should. But in reality, a flame that's too big or flickers wildly can be a sign of poor candle care - or an environment that needs adjusting. 

The truth: A flame that's too large usually means the wick hasn't been trimmed correctly. Over time, that can lead to sooting, dripping or even safety issues. Before each use, trim the wick 1/4 inch continually, and always burn them on a level surface away from drafts to help them burn cleanly and evenly. 

For more tips, check out our full Candle Tips Guide. 

Myth #3: If a Candle Smokes or Tunnels, It's Just a Bad Candle 

Left: proper burn with even wax pool. Right: Tunneling due to short burn times.

Not usually! In many cases, uneven burning or smoking is caused by wick trimming (or lack of it), drafty environments, or not letting the wax melt fully across the top during the first burn. 

The truth: Even the highest-quality candle needs care. Here's how to get the best burn: 

• Trim the wick to 1/4" before each burn 
• Burn long enough the first time to create a full melt pool - a good rule of thumb is at least one hour per diameter each burn 
• Keep the candle on a level surface and away from fans, vents and open windows 

You can find more tips like this in our Candle Tips Guide. 

Myth #4: Essential Oil Candles Don't Smell Strong Enough 

Essential oils aren't designed to overpower a space - and that's actually the point. They offer a subtle, therapeutic scent experiences without the harshness and negative health effects of synthetic fragrance oils. 

The truth: If you're used to synthetic candles, essential oils may seem gentler and take some time to adjust to. But they also come with real aromatherapy benefits, not just a strong throw. Our aromatherapy candles are blended to uplift, ground, and energize - naturally. 

Myth #5: "Bloom" on Beeswax Means It's Gone Bad 

That soft white coating you sometimes see on beeswax candles? That's called bloom, and it's a good thing. 

The truth: Bloom is a natural byproduct of the oils in pure beeswax rising to the surface. It's a sign that your candle is truly beeswax and hasn't been mixed with additives or coated with chemicals. You can leave it on or gently buff it away with a damp cloth for a polished look. Use a heat gun or hair dryer on a low setting for candles with intricate or detailed finishes.

Myth #6: Unscented Candles Aren't Worth It 

Not everyone wants fragrance - especially in shared spaces of sensitive environments. But that doesn't mean unscented candles are boring. 

The truth: Unscented candles, especially those made with 100% beeswax, offer a clean, natural ambiance that enhances with a subtle honey scent without overwhelming. Whether it's for the dinner table, meditation, or simply setting a calm mood our unscented pillars, tapers & votives offer beauty and presence without added aroma. 

Myth #7: Beeswax Candles Purify the Air with Negative Ions 

This is one of the most common - and persistent - myths out there. You've probably seen claims online that beeswax candles release negative ions when burned, which supposedly bind to dust and toxins in the air and cause them to fall to the ground. 

The truth: There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that burning beeswax candles produces enough negative ions to have a purifying effect on indoor air. While the warm glow and natural composition of beeswax can certainly make a space feel cleaner and calmer, it's not actually cleansing the air in any measurable way. 

That said, beeswax candles are naturally hypoallergenic and often recommended for people with sensitivities to synthetic fragrances or paraffin-based products. They burn cleanly, with little to no soot when properly cared for, and are a great option for scent-sensitive households or meditation spaces. 

At Sunbeam Candles, we believe in the real, grounded benefits of beeswax - not marketing myths. A clean, steady burn. A gentle natural scent. Renewable materials and a smaller environmental footprint. That's what we stand behind. 

The Bottom Line 

Not all candles are created equal - that's why transparency matters. At Sunbeam Candles, we're proud to handcraft beeswax pillars, tapers, aromatherapy and sculpted shapes with integrity. That means: 

• No paraffin 
• No synthetic fragrance oils 
• Just plant-based waxes, essential oils, and a shop powered by renewable energy 

Whether you're choosing the perfect container candle to create ambiance at home, shopping for a Mother's Day gift, or exploring our beeswax candle subscription, we're here to make your candle ritual as clean, beautiful and meaningful as possible.