The Difference Between Essential And Fragrance Oils Explained

Essential oils and fragrance oils are often used for similar purposes, but they are not the same. While both can be used to scent candles, perfumes, soaps, and other products, there are key differences between the two. The main distinction lies in their composition and source. Essential oils are entirely natural extracts derived from plants, obtained through processes like steam distillation or cold pressing. On the other hand, fragrance oils are synthetically manufactured in laboratories to replicate a wide range of scents. Fragrance oils are typically made from a combination of essential oils and synthetic aroma chemicals, while essential oils are 100% oil with no additives.

Essential oils are natural, fragrance oils are not

Essential oils and fragrance oils are two very different products, despite their similar names. While both can be used to scent your home, they are not interchangeable.

Natural vs Synthetic

Essential oils are entirely natural products, derived from plants and other natural sources. They are considered the 'essence' of a natural material, often containing the strongest impression of a plant's scent. These oils are obtained through distillation, a process in which natural oils are separated from other matter via heating, or expression, which involves pressing. They have been used for thousands of years across many cultures to treat physical and mental ailments.

On the other hand, fragrance oils are not natural products. They are synthetically created in labs to imitate natural scents or to produce unique scent experiences. While they may sometimes contain some natural products, they will always have synthetic elements. Fragrance oils are designed to be consistent and long-lasting, offering a wide variety of scents, including blends like white musk oil.

Aromatherapy

Essential oils are used for aromatherapy, offering a range of therapeutic benefits. They can be used to enhance mood, relieve symptoms such as pain, fatigue, or inflammation, and provide natural remedies for insomnia, coughs, hyperactivity, and muscle aches. They can be applied to the body through massage or bath, or inhaled through a diffuser or humidifier.

Fragrance oils, however, are not designed for therapeutic benefits. They are purely for scent and do not offer the same aromatherapeutic advantages as essential oils.

Safety

While essential oils are natural, they are potent and should be used with caution. They should not be applied directly to the skin without being diluted in a carrier oil. Ingesting essential oils can also be harmful unless under expert guidance.

Similarly, fragrance oils are meant for external use only and should be kept away from ingestion or undiluted topical application. Due to their complex synthetic compositions, some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to certain components, so it is crucial to patch-test any product containing fragrance oils.

Eco-Friendliness

Essential oils, being natural extracts, are often favoured in eco-conscious products due to their sustainability and minimal ecological impact. However, it is important to note that both types of oils can be used in eco-conscious product development when chosen thoughtfully and responsibly, considering their complete life cycle and impact on the environment.

Fragrance oils can be synthetic or natural

Fragrance oils are either synthetic or natural. Synthetic fragrance oils are created from artificial chemical components not found in nature. They are often used in commercial products because they hold their fragrance for longer than natural fragrances. Synthetic fragrance oils can be composed of as many as 80 chemical ingredients, so they may not be suitable for those with skin or fragrance sensitivities.

Natural fragrance oils are also man-made in a lab, but they are made by isolating naturally derived fragrance components from a complex scent. For example, limonene is derived from lemons, vanillin comes from vanilla beans, and geraniol comes from roses. These oils are a better option for those with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies.

Both synthetic and natural fragrance oils are used in a wide range of products, including scented soaps, creams, massage oils, room sprays, perfumes, colognes, candles, and laundry detergents.

Essential oils are used for aromatherapy

Inhalation methods include:

• Using a diffuser
• Spraying oil droplets
• Adding oils to a hot bath
• Opening the bottle and taking deep breaths
• Putting a few drops of oil on a cotton ball
• Putting a few drops of oil in a bowl of hot water, covering the head with a towel, and inhaling the steam

Topical applications include:

• Adding oils to bathwater
• Applying oils directly to the skin, preferably with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation
• Massaging oil into the skin
• Adding oils to skincare products

Essential oils used in aromatherapy have been linked to a variety of health benefits, including:

• Improved job performance through reduced stress and increased attentiveness
• Killing bacteria, funguses, and viruses
• Reducing anxiety, pain, and inflammation
• Improving asthma
• Preventing gum disease
• Relieving stomach discomfort
• Fighting acne
• Treating athlete's foot and ringworm
• Improving mood
• Reducing depression
• Alleviating indigestion
• Helping with insomnia
• Reducing muscle pain
• Treating respiratory problems
• Healing wounds
• Killing bacteria
• Preventing the growth of certain types of fungus
• Reducing blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes

Fragrance oils are used for candles and soaps

Fragrance oils are a popular choice for candles and soaps. They are synthetically manufactured in a lab and are designed to mimic natural scents. They are often composed of artificial chemical components, but they can also contain some natural products. For example, a lavender fragrance oil may contain some lavender essential oil.

Fragrance oils are versatile and can be used in candles, soaps, perfumes, cosmetics, lotions, detergents, household cleaners, and more. They are a great option for adding a unique and creative scent to your products. One of their advantages is that they can create a consistent, reliable, and long-lasting scent, which is ideal for indoor spaces. They are also generally more long-lasting than essential oils, with a better shelf life and a scent that won't alter over time.

When creating scented candles and soaps, it is important to use quality fragrance oils to achieve a highly scented product. Reputable companies will ensure that their fragrance oils are safe, accurate, and concentrated. Fragrance oils are also available in wholesale options, making them an excellent choice for business owners or hobbyists looking to purchase in bulk.

However, it is important to note that fragrance oils may contain undisclosed and potentially harmful ingredients, so it is crucial to check the ingredients list and choose reputable brands. Fragrances have been linked to certain health risks, such as hormone disruption, respiratory issues, and allergic reactions. Therefore, it is always recommended to read the safety information provided with the oil and handle it correctly.

Fragrance oils are cheaper than essential oils

The process of creating fragrance oils is less costly than that of essential oils, as they are made in a lab and do not require the extraction of natural products. This makes fragrance oils a more economical option for those looking for a pleasant scent without the therapeutic benefits of essential oils.

While fragrance oils may be more affordable, it is important to note that they may contain undisclosed and potentially harmful ingredients. Regulations surrounding fragrance labelling do not require each individual ingredient to be listed, and a package labelled as 'fragrance' may contain hundreds of potentially harmful ingredients. Some of these chemicals include benzene derivatives, aldehydes, phthalates, and petrochemicals. These synthetic fragrances have been linked to health risks such as hormone disruption, respiratory issues, and allergic reactions.

In contrast, essential oils are highly concentrated liquid plant extracts that are considered the ''essence' of a natural material. They often contain the strongest impression of a plant's scent and offer various wellness benefits. Essential oils have been used for thousands of years to treat physical and mental ailments across different cultures and are known for their therapeutic and healing properties.

While fragrance oils may be cheaper, essential oils offer a more natural and holistic approach to scent and wellness. It is important to consider the purpose of using these oils and the desired outcome. If the goal is simply to create a pleasant scent, fragrance oils may be a suitable option. However, if therapeutic benefits are important, essential oils are the better choice.

Frequently asked questions