Looking for a way to protect your candles from the harmful effects of UV light? Look no further than the best UV inhibitor additive for candle making. Read on to discover the benefits of using UV inhibitors and find out which products come out on top.
Candles have been used for centuries to add warmth, light, and ambiance to our homes. Whether you prefer the sweet smell of vanilla, the invigorating scent of peppermint, or the calming fragrance of lavender, candles are a go-to source of relaxation and tranquility. But did you know that your candles could be at risk of damage from UV light?
Ultraviolet (UV) light is a type of radiation that is invisible to the naked eye but can be harmful to our skin and to certain materials. When exposed to UV light, candles can become discolored, faded, or even develop cracks. That’s where UV inhibitors come in.
UV inhibitors are additives that can be added to candle wax to help protect them from the harmful effects of UV light. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using the best UV inhibitor additive for candle making and highlight some of the top products on the market.
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Why use a UV inhibitor additive for candle making?
UV inhibitors are essential for anyone who wants to ensure their candles remain beautiful and long-lasting. Some of the key benefits of using a UV inhibitor additive include:
- Protects against discoloration: UV light can cause candles to fade or change color over time. By adding a UV inhibitor, you can help preserve the original color of your candles.
- Prevents cracking: Excessive exposure to UV light can cause wax to become brittle and crack over time. A UV inhibitor can help keep your candles supple and flexible.
- Extends shelf life: UV inhibitors can help extend the shelf life of your candles by preventing the breakdown of their chemical structure.
- Maintains fragrance: Candles can lose their scent over time due to exposure to UV light. Using a UV inhibitor can help preserve the fragrance of your candles.
Top UV inhibitor additives for candle making
Here is my pick as it is readily available on Amazon. Candlescience, Flaming Candle, and Lone Star Candle also carry UV inhibitors for candles. Which chemical they use for their individual brand is not always clear.
If you’re looking to add a UV inhibitor to your candle wax, here are some of the best products on the market, they are harder to get:
- UV-770: This high-performance UV inhibitor is one of the most popular on the market. It’s a liquid additive that can be added to any type of candle wax and is effective at protecting against discoloration and cracking.
Pros:
- Effective at protecting against discoloration and cracking
- Compatible with all types of candle wax
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Benzophenone-4: This UV inhibitor is commonly used in sunscreen but can also be used in candle making. It’s effective at protecting against UV light and is particularly good at preserving fragrances.
Pros:
- Effective at protecting against UV light
- Helps preserve fragrances
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Not compatible with all types of candle wax
- Can cause wax to become slightly yellow over time
- Tinogard HS: This UV inhibitor is a solid wax-based additive that is particularly effective at protecting against discoloration. It’s compatible with most types of candle wax and is easy to use.
Pros:
- Effective at protecting against discoloration
- Compatible with most types of candle wax
- The solid form makes it easy to handle
Cons:
- May not be as effective at preventing cracking
- Can be slightly more expensive than other UV inhibitors
- Ultraviolet Absorber-531: This UV inhibitor is a popular choice for candle makers as it’s particularly effective at protecting against UV light. It’s a liquid additive that is easy to use and is compatible with most types of candle wax.
Pros:
- Effective at protecting against UV light
- Compatible with most types of candle wax
- Easy to use
Cons:
- May not be as effective at preventing discoloration
- Can be slightly more expensive than other UV inhibitors
- This UV inhibitor is a solid wax-based additive that is particularly effective at protecting against cracking. It’s compatible with most types of candle wax and is easy to use.
Pros:
- Effective at protecting against cracking
- Compatible with most types of candle wax
- Solid form makes it easy to handle
Cons:
- May not be as effective at preventing discoloration
- Can be slightly more expensive than other UV inhibitors
FAQs about UV inhibitor additives for candle making
- Can UV inhibitors be added to any type of candle wax?
Most UV inhibitors are compatible with a wide range of candle waxes, including paraffin, soy, and beeswax. However, it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure compatibility.
- Will using a UV inhibitor change the fragrance of my candles?
Most UV inhibitors won’t have a significant impact on the fragrance of your candles. However, some UV inhibitors, such as Benzophenone-4, are particularly good at preserving fragrances.
- How much UV inhibitor should I add to my candle wax?
The amount of UV inhibitor you should add to your candle wax will depend on the specific product and the amount of wax you’re using. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Conclusion
Using the best UV inhibitor additive for candle making is a smart way to protect your candles from the harmful effects of UV light. Whether you choose UV-770, Benzophenone-4, Tinogard HS, Ultraviolet Absorber-531, or UV-24, you can rest assured that your candles will remain beautiful and long-lasting. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and experiment with different products to find the best one for your needs. Happy candle making!
