One of the most frequently asked questions we receive is, "What are Foton Candles made of?" We understand that when you light a candle, you're not just adding a cozy ambiance or a pleasant fragrance to your home, you're also potentially introducing different chemicals into the air and the environment. This is why choosing candles made from clean ingredients is more important than you might think. So let's take a look at why clean ingredients matter in your candles,  and why Foton Pearled Candles are a top-tier option when it comes to clean-burning, eco-friendly candles.

The Hidden Dangers of Conventional Candles

Many traditional candles, especially those made from paraffin wax, contain harmful chemicals that are released into the air when burned. Paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum, is one of the most commonly used candle materials due to its low cost and availability. However, when burned, paraffin candles can emit toxic compounds like benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde; Substances linked to respiratory issues, allergies, and even long-term health risks.

Beyond the wax itself, many conventional candles are also infused with synthetic fragrances and dyes, which can release additional harmful chemicals when heated. These additives may cause headaches, skin irritation, or even contribute to air pollution in your home. 

What Does “Candle Made with Clean Ingredients” Mean?

Unfortunately the term "clean ingredients" is not clearly defined in the candle industry. Generally, it means these candles are typically free from synthetic chemicals, artificial fragrances, and petroleum-based waxes like paraffin. Instead, they are crafted from plant-based alternatives such as coconut wax, beeswax and others. 

The Foton Pearled Candle Ingredient Difference

At Foton, we take the concept of clean-burning candles seriously and aim to offer clean options to people who care about the air quality. Our candles are made from certified sustainably sourced plant-based wax, which burns cleanly with minimal smoke or soot. Here’s a closer look at our ingredients:

• Plant-Based & Vegan: The wax used to create Foton Pearled Candles is 100% plant-based and vegan, meaning they contain no animal-derived ingredients. Our candle pearls are derived from certified sustainably sourced coconut wax, a renewable resource that is biodegradable and eco-friendly, making them a great option for those who are concerned about ethical sourcing and sustainability. Also, Foton pearls are readily compostable, meaning you can toss the melt pools without concern or even crumble them back into the product if you want to maximize the life of your pearled candle. 

• Clean Burn with Minimal Smoke or Soot: Many of us have experienced the frustration of candles that burn with too much smoke and leave behind unsightly soot, and our candles provide a clean burn, producing little to no smoke or soot. This is especially important for maintaining good indoor air quality, as many candles release particulate matter and soot that can settle on surfaces and affect the air you breathe.

• No Paraffin, Soy, or Known Allergens: Foton Pearled Candles do not contain paraffin or soy, which are common allergens for some individuals. Paraffin, a petroleum-based wax, is often associated with releasing harmful chemicals into the air when burned, while soy can be an issue for those with soy allergies.

• Cleaner Fragrances (Free from Phthalates & Parabens): Foton Candles feature a blend of both natural and synthetic fragrances to provide delightful scents, ensuring that each candle burns evenly and consistently. On top of that, our fragrances are free from phthalates and parabens, harmful chemicals often found in synthetic fragrances.

• An Unscented Option for Sensitive Spaces: If you’re still concerned about scent allergies, we’ve got you covered. In addition to our scented candles, we also offer a Scent Free candle, a great option for those with sensitivities. With our unscented candles, you can enjoy the warm ambiance of a clean-burning candle, and even add your own favorite essential oils or fragrance if you wish, creating a personalized scent experience that’s gentle on the senses. Learn more about how to add scent to your unscented Foton Candle here.

• Wicks: Our standard wicks are made from organic cotton, which is a safer option compared to the metal-core wicks found in conventional candles. We also have wooden wicks (crackle wicks), that do not contain any toxic chemicals or known allergens and can give your space an extra decor touch!

• Pet and kid-friendly: Babies, children, pregnant women, and pets, especially birds are more vulnerable to the toxic effects of chemicals in the air. Clean candles help minimize these risks, ensuring that your home environment remains as safe and healthy as possible. Foton Candle ingredients have been reviewed by veterinarians specializing in birds and described as "the cleanest candles they've ever seen on the market". 

Environmental Impact: Why Clean Candles Are Better for the Planet

Beyond health, choosing clean candles is also an eco-conscious decision. Many conventional candles are made from petroleum-based paraffin, which is not biodegradable and contributes to environmental degradation. The production of paraffin also contributes to pollution and climate change due to its reliance on fossil fuels.

In contrast, plant-based waxes like coconut are renewable resources that have a much smaller environmental footprint. These materials can often be sourced sustainably, with minimal harm to ecosystems or wildlife.

Candles made from clean ingredients offer a safer, healthier, and more sustainable alternative to traditional candles. Foton Pearled Candle products take you a step further with clean-burning, vegan, and allergen-free ingredients, ensuring a truly clean candle experience.