Anisha Riggs
Scented candles are a popular choice for many, but what fragrances are used to create them? The type of fragrance used in candles depends on the candle maker and the desired scent. Fragrance oils are a popular choice, with many candle makers opting for natural fragrances derived from essential oils, while others use synthetic aroma chemicals. These synthetic fragrances are designed to enhance the scent and are often blended with other oils. When creating candles, it is important to consider the desired strength of the scent, the environment in which the candle will be used, and the compatibility of the fragrance with the wax.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Fragrance oils |
| Base | Natural and synthetic fragrances |
| Natural fragrances | Essential oils |
| Synthetic fragrances | Aroma chemicals |
| Scent | Floral, fruity, woody, earthy, cinnamon, cedarwood, citrus, vanilla, lavender, sandalwood, etc. |
| Formulation | Safe, non-toxic, and compatible with candle use |
| Health and safety | Various tests are conducted to ensure safety |
| Wax compatibility | Paraffin, soy, coconut, beeswax |
| Scent throw | Depends on the temperature of wax when the fragrance is added |
| Scent strength | 6-12% fragrance content |
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What You'll Learn
How to choose the right fragrance oil for your candle
When choosing the right fragrance oil for your candle, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, decide on the desired strength of the scent. Fragrance oils come in a range of concentrations, with most waxes unable to hold more than 12% fragrance. Typically, premium candles contain up to 10% fragrance, while store-bought candles average around 6%.
Next, consider the environment in which the candle will be used. For example, warm and spicy scents like cinnamon or cedarwood are perfect for winter, while fresh and floral fragrances or citrusy scents are ideal for spring and summer. If you're using liquid candle dye, you can also pair your fragrance with a complementary colour to add a vibrant touch.
It's also important to ensure compatibility with your materials. Fragrance oils are designed to work with specific types of wax, such as soy, paraffin, or beeswax. However, beeswax is already naturally scented, so adding fragrance oils may produce unexpected results. Always consult safety guidelines, such as the IFRA, for proper usage instructions and conduct a burn test to ensure your candle is safe.
When adding fragrance oil, heat your wax to the correct temperature to ensure even distribution. The ideal temperature depends on the fragrance flashpoint, which is the temperature at which the oil becomes combustible. As a general rule:
- If the flashpoint is under 130ºF, add the oil to the wax at 130ºF.
- If the flashpoint is between 130ºF and 180ºF, add the oil at its flashpoint.
- If the flashpoint is above 180ºF, add the oil to the wax at 180ºF.
Finally, allow your candles to cure for 24-48 hours to enhance the scent throw. This curing process can make a significant difference in the strength of the fragrance, so don't skip this step!
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Natural vs synthetic fragrances
The addition of fragrance to a candle is a common practice, with an estimated 75 to 80% of candles sold in the US being scented. Most scented candles contain a combination of natural and synthetic fragrances.
Natural fragrances are those that are produced using all-natural byproducts, such as organic matter and plants. They are fully natural, meaning they can be found in nature. Natural aromas come from plants via extractions and are complex combinations of essential oils and concentrates. However, it's important to note that not all natural oils are non-toxic, and some can cause irritation or trigger various reactions. Even natural ingredients can be harmful when burned, as they may undergo a chemical change. Additionally, some natural fragrances, such as oud, contribute to deforestation, while others, like vanilla bean, require an exorbitant amount of water to produce.
Synthetic fragrances, on the other hand, are derived from man-made chemicals and petroleum byproducts. They are not of natural origin. Synthetic fragrances can be safer to burn than natural fragrances due to their individual composition. For example, phthalates, a collection of chemicals commonly used in fragrances, are not always considered safe. However, synthetic fragrances can be made without such toxins, and some companies proudly announce when they don't use these ingredients. Synthetic fragrances can offer benefits such as scent performance, range of olfactive expression, flexibility, affordability, complexity, accessibility, longevity, environmental sustainability, and safety. They can also be more hypoallergenic than natural fragrances, as most allergic reactions are more commonly found in natural ingredients.
In conclusion, while natural fragrances may seem like the healthier and more sustainable option, this is not always the case. Synthetic fragrances can often be safer, more effective, and more environmentally friendly. However, it's important to note that both natural and synthetic fragrances have their place in the fragrance-creation process, and it's up to the consumer to decide which type of fragrance they prefer. Reputable candle manufacturers will use only fragrances specifically approved for candle use, so consumers can be confident in their choices.
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How much fragrance oil to add to your candle
The amount of fragrance oil you add to a candle depends on the type of wax you are using and the desired strength of the scent. The percentage of fragrance oil in a candle is referred to as the "fragrance load" by professional candlemakers.
The fragrance load usually falls between 5-6% but can go up to a maximum of 10%. However, it's important to note that using too much fragrance can result in candles with dry or lumpy wax or even cause issues with the candle holding a flame. Coconut and soy waxes, for example, have a higher scent throw, meaning they can hold more fragrance oil.
To calculate the exact amount of fragrance oil needed, you can use a fragrance load calculator. This tool considers the wax gravity of the wax you are using and the desired quantity of candles to determine the required amount of wax and fragrance oil.
For example, if you are making an 8-ounce candle, you would use 0.8 ounces of fragrance oil. If you are making a 30-cl candle, you would use 3 cl or g of fragrance oil and 27 g of wax.
It's worth noting that the quality of the fragrance oil also plays a role in determining the amount needed. High-quality fragrance oils are often sold in larger quantities, such as 16-ounce bottles or more, and a higher concentration can mean that less oil is required.
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Different types of candle waxes and their compatibility with fragrance oils
When creating candles, it is important to consider the compatibility of the candle wax with fragrance oils. While there are countless fragrance oils and scent options available, not all candle waxes can hold fragrances to the same degree.
One of the most popular candle-making waxes is paraffin wax, a synthetic wax derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil. It is inexpensive and holds onto fragrance and colour well, making it the go-to choice for many candle brands. However, paraffin wax is not eco-friendly and can be toxic when burnt, producing adverse effects. Soy wax, on the other hand, is a natural, vegan, and eco-friendly alternative. It is derived from soybeans and is known to hold fragrances well, making it suitable for scented candles. Soy wax is also widely available, affordable, and smokeless, but it may not be the best option for pillar candles due to its soft texture.
Another option is beeswax, which is one of the oldest forms of candle wax, produced by bees during the honey-making process. It has a subtly sweet natural scent and a tougher, more solid nature, making it perfect for unscented pillar candles. Beeswax is also versatile and can be used for container candles, taper candles, and pillar candles. Coconut wax is a newer option that is becoming increasingly popular due to its ability to hold both fragrance and colour. It is derived from coconuts and burns cleanly with minimal soot, but it may be difficult to find as it is often sold in blends rather than on its own.
Palm wax, derived from palm trees, is another natural wax option. It holds pigments and fragrances well, making it suitable for adding colour and fragrance. However, the environmental impact of palm oil extraction may be a concern. Rapeseed wax, also known as canola wax, is a vegan and eco-friendly alternative sourced from rapeseed oil. It has excellent fragrance retention, a neutral odour, and a long burn time, making it a safe and sustainable option for scented candles.
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Health and safety considerations when adding fragrance to candles
The addition of fragrance to candles is a common practice, with an estimated 75 to 80 percent of candles sold in the United States being scented. However, it is important to consider the potential health and safety risks associated with adding fragrance to candles.
Firstly, it is important to choose high-quality fragrance oils that are specifically designed for candle making. Reputable manufacturers will use expertly formulated fragrances that have been approved for candle use. These fragrances should be safe, high-quality ingredients that are also found in many perfumes, soaps, and lotions. Look for fragrances that are free from phthalates and other toxins, such as benzophenone and styrene, which are known to be harmful. Pure essential oils can be a safer choice, but be wary of blends that may contain artificial fragrances.
Secondly, be mindful of the potential health risks associated with scented candles. Fragrances, along with VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and soot, can trigger respiratory issues and cause breathing problems, especially for individuals with asthma and allergies. The National Candle Association warns that paraffin wax, the most commonly used candle wax, may increase exposure to harmful chemicals and VOCs. Therefore, opt for candles made from natural waxes such as beeswax, soy, palm wax, stearin, or coconut wax, as these may release fewer harmful chemicals.
Additionally, ensure that scented candles are burned in a well-ventilated area. Opening a window or using an air purifier can help reduce the concentration of chemical compounds produced during burning. It is also recommended to choose candles scented with essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes to further reduce exposure to pollutants.
Finally, be cautious of hidden toxins in scented candles. Manufacturers are not required to disclose all the chemicals used to form a fragrance, so terms like "fragrance" or "perfume" on ingredient lists may hide artificial fragrances. Opt for candles that list specific essential oils as ingredients, and stick to single pure essential oils rather than blends to minimize the risk of exposure to synthetic fragrances.
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Frequently asked questions
Popular candle fragrances include fruity, floral, woody, earthy, and warm and spicy scents. Some specific examples of popular candle fragrances are:
- Amber & Moss
- Palo Santo
- Lavender
- Cinnamon
- Cedarwood
- Citrus
Fragrance oils that are commonly used for candles include essential oils and synthetic aroma chemicals. These fragrance oils are safe, high-quality ingredients that are also used in perfumes, soaps, lotions, and shampoos.
When selecting a fragrance oil for candles, consider the desired strength of the scent, the environment where the candle will be used, and the compatibility of the oil with your materials. For example, strong, warm scents like cinnamon are perfect for winter candles, while citrus or floral scents are ideal for spring and summer.
The process of adding fragrance to a candle involves heating the wax to the correct temperature before adding the fragrance oil to ensure even distribution. The fragrance flashpoint, or the temperature at which the oil becomes combustible, should be considered. Generally, fragrance oil is added to wax at 130ºF, but if the flashpoint is between 130ºF and 180ºF, the oil should be added at its flashpoint.
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