Heidi Norton
Candles and perfumes are both heavily reliant on fragrance to create a pleasant experience for the consumer. While candles can be unscented, it is estimated that 75-80% of candles sold in the US are scented. Similarly, fragrance is an integral part of cosmetic products and is often the overriding factor in the selection of cosmetics among consumers. Both candles and perfumes use essential oils and aroma chemicals to create their fragrances. These fragrance materials are safe, high-quality ingredients that are also found in many other consumer products like bath soaps, lotions, shampoos, and cosmetics. Perfumes also contain alcohol, which acts as a powerful solvent to lift and disseminate the fragrance notes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common Ingredients | Wax, wick, oil |
| Types of Wax | Soy wax, coconut wax, beeswax, paraffin wax |
| Types of Wick | Cotton, wood, hemp |
| Types of Oil | Essential oils, fragrance oils |
| Essential Oils | 100% natural oils derived from plant extracts |
| Fragrance Oils | Natural or synthetic |
| Alcohol | Used in perfumes to lift and disseminate fragrance notes |
| Synthetic Ingredients | Ambroxan, white musk, watermelon ketone |
| Natural Ingredients | Oud, patchouli |
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Essential oils
However, some people prefer to use essential oils in candle-making as they are considered safer and more natural than fragrance oils, which are made from petroleum. Essential oils are also used in perfumes, as they provide a range of fragrant notes that can evoke emotions, memories, and ambiances.
When used in candles, essential oils must be diluted in the candle wax to prevent them from burning off too quickly or igniting. Despite this, some people find that essential oils do not perform well in candles, as their scent may change when burned. It is important to note that not all essential oils are suitable for candles, and some may have unpleasant burnt scents.
Some popular essential oils for candle-making include lemongrass and lavender, which are known to work well and have pleasant scents when burned. Soy wax and essential oils are considered a perfect pair for natural candles, as soy wax is inexpensive and widely available.
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Synthetic fragrances
In candles, synthetic fragrances are combined with natural fragrances to develop pleasing scents that burn safely and properly. Synthetic fragrances are also used in perfumes to create a range of scents and evoke emotions, memories, and ambiances.
Despite these concerns, synthetic fragrances have reduced the exploitation of natural resources, particularly the demand for essential oils, which can be costly and challenging to source sustainably.
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Alcohol
Perfumers use the term "alcohol" to refer specifically to ethanol, which is obtained by adding an ethyl group to regular alcohol. Ethanol is a versatile solvent that can effectively dissolve and blend essential oils and aromatic compounds, ensuring even distribution in perfumes. It also helps create a sprayable consistency and aids in the dispersion and evaporation of the fragrance on the skin. This rapid evaporation helps project the perfume and enhances the fragrance experience. Additionally, alcohol acts as a preservative, inhibiting microbial growth and extending the shelf life of perfumes.
When selecting alcohol for perfume-making, it is crucial to choose the right type. Perfumer's alcohol, a blend of alcohol and additives, serves as an ideal base for perfumes. It is widely available and suitable for both professionals and amateurs. Cosmetic-grade Trade Specific Denatured Alcohol (TSDA) is commonly used in the industry, with SD-40b being the most recommended variant. This type of alcohol is denatured, meaning it has been made unfit for human consumption through the addition of certain chemicals. However, not all denaturants are harmful, and TSDA is specifically designed for safe use in cosmetic products.
It is important to note that alcohol-based perfumes can have some drawbacks. They can cause skin dryness, irritation, and sensitivity by stripping the skin of its natural oils. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with sensitive skin. As a result, there has been a growing trend towards alcohol-free perfumes that utilize natural, renewable ingredients and innovative approaches to maintain the efficacy and allure of traditional fragrances while prioritizing skin health and sustainability.
While alcohol is commonly associated with perfumes, its role in candle-making is less prominent. In candle-making, alcohol is not a primary ingredient but can be used in the production of diffuser oils and scented products like room sprays and linen sprays.
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Natural fragrances
Essential oils are commonly used in perfumes, bath soaps, lotions, shampoos, massage oils, as well as candles. They are versatile and can be used in various applications, including skincare and personal care products. Natural fragrances are also safer for skin contact, making them ideal for use in cosmetics and skincare formulations.
Some popular natural fragrances include:
- Oud or agarwood: This essential oil is derived from the tropical Agar tree. It is considered one of the most expensive perfume ingredients due to its rich, resinous aroma.
- Patchouli: Derived from an Asian shrub, patchouli adds a sensual, woody dimension to fragrances. It is a favourite in classic and modern perfumes for its warm, deep, and exotic fragrance.
- Sandalwood, amber, and cedarwood: These earthy and woody fragrances create a cozy and comfortable atmosphere.
- Lavender, rose, and gardenia: Floral scents like these add a touch of elegance to any product.
- Vanilla, citrus, and strawberry: These fruity and sweet fragrances are perfect for nostalgic or playful products.
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Health and safety tests
A common ingredient in candles and perfumes is fragrance, which can be derived from essential oils or synthetic aroma chemicals. These fragrance materials are deemed safe and are also found in many other consumer products such as bath soaps, lotions, and shampoos.
Candle manufacturers must comply with regulations such as the General Product Safety Regulations (GPSR) in the UK and Europe, and the General Product Safety Regulations of 1994 in other parts of the world. These regulations ensure that candles are safe for use under normal or reasonably foreseeable conditions.
- Stability test: Place the candle on a surface with a 10-degree angle. If the candle stays upright on its own, it is considered stable.
- Secondary ignition test: Burn the candle all the way down in 4-hour cycles. If no secondary ignition occurs or if it lasts for less than 10 seconds, the candle is safe.
- Flame height test: Light the candle and measure the height of the flame after 5 minutes. For container and pillar candles, the safe flame height is 75mm, while for tea lights, it is 30mm.
- Spontaneous relighting test: Blow out the candle and check if it relights on its own. If it does, the candle is unsafe.
- Wick test: After blowing out the candle, observe the wick. A safe wick should not smoke or glow for more than 30 seconds after extinguishing.
- Container test (for container candles only): Light the candle and let it burn for 4 hours. If the container cracks or breaks, the candle is unsafe.
The safety of perfumes is assessed by organizations such as the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) and the Centre of Toxicology and Health Safety. These organizations conduct comprehensive safety assessments to evaluate the potential risks of fragrance ingredients to human health and the environment.
Some of the critical endpoints assessed include:
- Genotoxicity: The potential of an ingredient to alter or damage genetic material (DNA) by causing mutations or breaks in chromosomes.
- Skin sensitization: The potential for strong light to react with fragrance ingredients to create an allergic reaction on the skin.
- Photoirritation: The potential for fragrance ingredients to cause irritation or damage to the skin or eyes when exposed to light.
- Reproductive toxicity: The potential impact of ingredients on reproductive health.
- Local respiratory toxicity: The potential effects of inhaling fragrance ingredients on respiratory health.
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Frequently asked questions
Essential oils are a common ingredient in both candles and perfumes. They are volatile and liquid aroma compounds from natural sources, usually plants.
Popular essential oils include orange, corn mint, and eucalyptus, as well as rose and sandalwood.
Yes, modern perfumery relies heavily on synthetic ingredients for their versatility, consistency, and cost-effectiveness. Synthetic fragrances are chemically created and usually derived from petroleum.
Synthetic fragrances include musk, ambergris, watermelon ketone, and aldehyde.
Alcohol is a common ingredient in perfumes, acting as a powerful solvent that evaporates quickly and is invisible. Other common ingredients include agarwood, patchouli, labdanum, and lavender.
