Fragrance Oils: Do They Expire And Go Bad?

Fragrance oils do have a shelf life, and can go bad. The average shelf life of fragrance oils is around 6 to 12 months, but this depends on the particular chemicals used in the fragrance, as well as the temperature and exposure to light and air. Oils with more natural ingredients can spoil more quickly. Proper storage can help extend the shelf life of fragrance oils.

How to identify if fragrance oils have gone bad

Fragrance oils do have a limited shelf life, typically lasting between one and two years, depending on how they are stored and the specific formula. However, it is possible to identify if fragrance oils have gone bad by looking out for the following signs:

Changes in Colour

Keep a record of the original colour of the oil, perhaps by taking a photo when you first open it. This way, you can easily identify any noticeable colour changes, which can indicate that the oil's components have oxidised or degraded.

Shift in Scent

A change in scent is a tell-tale sign that fragrance oils have gone bad. If the oil smells different, rancid, or sour, it has likely surpassed its shelf life and should be replaced. If you are unsure, ask a friend or family member for a second opinion.

Reduced Scent Throw

Fragrance oils that have gone bad may also exhibit a reduced scent throw. This means that the oil's ability to diffuse its scent has weakened, resulting in a less potent fragrance.

Test Batch Performance

If you are still uncertain about the quality of your fragrance oil, creating a test batch is a reliable method for confirmation. Simply make a candle or soap using the oil in question, allow it to cure, and then test its performance. If the colour, scent, or overall performance is not as expected, it's likely that the oil has gone bad.

Storage Conditions

In addition to the above indicators, it is important to consider the storage conditions of your fragrance oils. Proper storage plays a pivotal role in extending the shelf life of fragrance oils. Ideally, fragrance oils should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Heat and light can accelerate the degradation process, causing the scent to weaken or change over time. Therefore, if your fragrance oils have been stored in suboptimal conditions, they may be more likely to have gone bad.

The shelf life of fragrance oils

On average, fragrance oils have a shelf life of around 6 to 12 months. This can vary, however, depending on the particular chemicals used to create the fragrance. The type of carrier oil used also plays a role, with some oils having a longer shelf life than others. For example, stored properly, fractionated coconut oil has an almost indefinite shelf life, whereas grapeseed oil will only last around 6 months. Jojoba oil also has a long shelf life, while rice bran and sweet almond oils fall somewhere in between.

The conditions in which fragrance oils are stored can also impact their longevity. Proper storage can help extend the shelf life of fragrance oils. Oils should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from light, heat, and oxygen, as these elements can cause the oil to degrade and turn rancid. Using airtight containers made of glass or food-grade aluminium with tight-fitting lids is ideal. Some sources suggest that refrigeration can help extend the life of fragrance oils, especially for citrus-based oils, but others caution that extreme temperature changes can negatively affect the oils.

It's important to note that fragrance oils don't necessarily become unsafe to use if they are past their prime. Instead, you may notice changes in the scent, with the top notes fading first, leaving you with a different, and possibly less pleasant, smell. The oil may also darken in colour, thicken, or develop a strange odour, indicating that it has turned rancid.

The effects of temperature on fragrance oils

Fragrance oils typically have a shelf life of 6–12 months, depending on their chemical composition and storage conditions. One of the critical factors that influence their longevity is temperature.

For fragrance oils used in candles, adding them to the wax at the appropriate temperature is crucial for safety and performance. The ideal range is between 185°F and 200°F (85°C and 93°C). Adding fragrance oil within this temperature range ensures that it blends safely and consistently with the wax. If the oil is added at a lower temperature, it may not mix properly, creating flammable pockets of oil within the candle, which increases the risk of violent ignition.

Additionally, the flash point of fragrance oil, while important for shipping purposes, is not a determining factor in the candle-making process. Fragrance oil is unlikely to degrade within normal candle-making temperatures, as its boiling point is far above 200°F. Therefore, the primary concern regarding temperature is finding the right range to achieve a safe and stable candle design.

The impact of light exposure on fragrance oils

To prevent light exposure from affecting fragrance oils, it is recommended to store them in cool, dark places, away from direct sunlight and bright indoor lighting. Keeping the oils in their original packaging or specialised storage containers can also help protect them from light exposure. Additionally, it is suggested to purchase only the amount of fragrance oil that will be used within six months to a year, as proper storage conditions can help prolong the shelf life of the oils.

How to store fragrance oils

The average shelf life of fragrance oil is about one year, but this is dependent on time, temperature, and exposure to air and light. The more natural ingredients in the formula, the more quickly it can spoil.

To store fragrance oils, keep them in a cool, dark place away from light and heat. If you need to store them for longer than a year, it is recommended to test each fragrance before use.

For best results, purchase only enough fragrance oil that you will use within six months to a year. You can usually tell if a fragrance oil has gone bad as it will have a different smell (usually unpleasant) and/or have a reduced scent throw.

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