Are Expensive Candles Worth It? Here’s What You’re Really Paying For

There’s an abundance of candle options on the market — from under $10 to nearly $1000. But what exactly makes one candle cost more than another? And are expensive candles truly worth it?

Let’s unpack what goes into that higher price tag — and why premium candles can offer far more than just scent.

Ingredient Quality: What You Burn Matters

Lower-priced candles are typically made with cost-cutting materials:

Cheap synthetic fragrance oils

Paraffin wax — a petroleum byproduct that can release soot and toxins

Inexpensive wicks that may burn unevenly or too quickly

Luxury candles, on the other hand, use:

Coconut-soy or beeswax blends for a cleaner burn

High-quality fragrance oils, often infused with essential oils

Better wicks and precise formulations for an even burn

 

At Soja, we only use:

Coconut-soy wax

IFRA-approved fragrance oils

Crystals for added intention

Each element is chosen for performance, safety, and energy.

Scent Throw & Scent Complexity

You get what you pay for when it comes to fragrance.

Premium candles offer multi-layered scent profiles with top, middle, and base notes — like a fine perfume. The fragrance fills your space and lingers without being overpowering.

Cheaper candles often:

Fade quickly

Smell artificial or overly strong

Lack scent structure

Scent throw is a big differentiator. Luxury candles are formulated to disperse aroma both unlit and while burning.

🕯️ Burn Experience

A clean, even burn is not an accident — it’s a science.

Premium candles are tested for:

Wick type and placement

Burn time and wax pool performance

Minimal soot and tunneling

Soja candles, for example, offer up to 75 hours of burn time with beautiful scent dispersion and calming crystal energy.

The Bottom Line

Expensive candles may cost more upfront — but they deliver a longer-lasting, cleaner, and more luxurious experience.

When you choose a premium candle, you're investing in:

Healthier ingredients

Better scent performance

Longer burn time

Intention and energy (especially in crystal-infused candles)

Shop the Experience

Discover what premium really feels like with our best-selling crystal-infused candles:

Abundance – Vanilla Caramel + Citrine

Relax – Japanese Honeysuckle + Amethyst

Or browse the full Core Collection

You’ll smell and feel the difference — from the first burn.