Jessie Taylor
Candles are made up of three essential components: the wick, wax, and fragrance. When you light a candle, the heat from the flame melts the wax, turning it into a liquid. This liquid wax is then pulled up the wick and into the flame, and the combination of heat and liquid results in gas. This gas is then burnt, helping the flame continue to glow and spread the candle's scent. The aroma from a scented candle is released through the evaporation of the fragrance from the hot wax pool and the solid candle itself.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Percentage of scented candles sold in the U.S. | 75-80% |
| Fragrance materials | Natural, synthetic, essential oils, aroma chemicals |
| Number of aroma chemicals and essential oils manufacturers can select from | 2,000+ |
| Maximum fragrance percentage in wax | 12% |
| Average fragrance percentage in store-bought candles | 6% |
| Fragrance percentage in premium candles | 6-10% |
| Flashpoint | The temperature at which fragrance oil becomes combustible |
| Fragrance oil usage | Heat wax to the correct temperature before adding |
| Curing time for candles | 24-48 hours |
| Types of wax | Paraffin, soy, natural, beeswax, coconut, soy/coconut blend |
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What You'll Learn
Fragrance oils vs essential oils
There are several differences between fragrance oils and essential oils, and the two are not interchangeable terms. Fragrance oils are man-made in a laboratory, whereas essential oils are natural and extracted directly from plants and other natural sources. Essential oils are derived from the seeds, flowers, leaves, roots, stems, or bark of plants, typically through steam distillation, expression, or extraction.
Essential oils are more volatile, with a lower boiling point, and they evaporate more quickly when exposed to heat. This means that candles made with essential oils will lose their scent more quickly than those made with fragrance oils. Fragrance oils are designed to be potent and long-lasting, making them ideal for candles. They are also cheaper to produce, as the process of extracting essential oils is labour-intensive.
Essential oils are not formulated for combustion, and some can be toxic when burned. Fragrance oils, on the other hand, are created with the purpose of being burned in a candle in mind. They can also be used to create scents that are impossible to achieve with essential oils, such as fresh laundry or the sea.
However, essential oils have their own advantages. They have been used for centuries for their unique aromas and potential health perks, and they are an eco-friendly choice, containing no additional additives or chemicals. They are also safe to use, as they do not release harmful toxins when burned.
In summary, fragrance oils are better for creating long-lasting, strong scents in candles, and they are also more cost-effective. However, essential oils have the advantage of being natural, eco-friendly, and safe, with potential health benefits.
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How much fragrance oil to add
The amount of fragrance oil added to a candle depends on the type of wax used, the desired strength of the scent, and the production process. Most waxes will not hold more than 12% fragrance, and the industry standard is 0.5 ounces of fragrance oil per pound of wax. However, some waxes can hold up to 1.5 ounces of fragrance oil per pound. For example, paraffin votive and pillar waxes usually hold a maximum of 1 ounce per pound, while soy candles can hold between 1-2 ounces of fragrance oil per pound of wax.
To calculate the amount of fragrance oil needed, you can use either the fragrance load or fragrance content method. The fragrance load method measures the percentage of fragrance oil relative to the weight of the wax only. For example, if you're using a soy wax that can hold up to 10% fragrance oil and you're making a 10-ounce candle, you would need 1 ounce of fragrance oil: 0.10 (percentage) x 10 oz (wax weight) = 1 oz (fragrance amount).
The fragrance content method calculates the percentage of fragrance oil relative to the total weight of the wax and oil combined. For example, if you start with a total weight of 220g (wax + oil) and want a 10% scent load, you would need 22g of oil: 220g x 10% = 22g of oil. This results in 22g of oil and 198g of wax.
It's important to note that the temperature at which the fragrance oil is added can affect the scent throw, so it's recommended to heat the wax to the correct temperature before adding the fragrance oil. Additionally, the flashpoint, or the temperature at which the fragrance oil becomes combustible, should be considered. Fragrance oils with a higher flashpoint are safer for use in candles, especially for shipping purposes.
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Types of wax and compatibility
The type of wax used in candles is an important consideration when adding fragrance. Different types of wax have different characteristics, and choosing the right one depends on the candle-maker's preferences, needs, and goals.
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is the most common type of candle wax. It is synthetic, derived from the oil industry as a byproduct of refining crude oil, and made with petroleum, coal, or shade oil. It is inexpensive and holds onto colour and fragrance well, making it a popular choice for many candle brands. It is also versatile and known for its opacity, lack of odour, and consistent burn qualities. However, it is not the most eco-friendly option, as it produces more soot and other chemicals when burned.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is a natural, plant-based wax made from soybeans, a renewable and sustainable source. It is widely available, affordable, environmentally friendly, and smokeless. Soy wax is known to hold fragrances well, making it a good type of wax for scented candles, and it is particularly good for container candles. However, it does not hold or dissolve pigments well and is quite soft, so it is not suitable for pillar candles.
Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural and versatile wax that has been used for centuries. It is made by bees during the honey-making process, so while it is natural, it is not vegan-friendly. It has a subtly sweet natural scent and a tougher, more solid nature, making it perfect for crafting unscented pillar candles. However, it does not hold or throw fragrance as well as other types of wax.
Coconut Wax
Coconut wax is a newer option that is becoming increasingly popular. It is harvested from coconuts, a high-yield, sustainable crop. It burns cleanly with barely any soot, holds fragrance well, and has an odourless scent. It is often blended with soy wax to produce high-quality candles with excellent scent throw and a smooth finish.
Other Types of Wax
Other types of wax used in candle-making include palm wax, rapeseed wax, gel wax, and blended wax. Palm wax is a hard wax, making it good for pillar candles, and it holds pigments and fragrances well. However, its production has been associated with environmental issues due to deforestation. Rapeseed wax is another eco-friendly, sustainable option with an excellent burn time and good fragrance retention. Gel wax is one of the lowest average price points for candle wax but is not biodegradable. Blended wax combines different wax types to achieve specific qualities, such as a good scent and a full melt pool, or to create a more eco-friendly option.
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Natural vs synthetic fragrances
Natural fragrances are derived from natural sources such as plants and other organic matter. They are often produced using plant-based ingredients and essential oils. Natural fragrances are typically considered to be more environmentally friendly and sustainable than synthetic fragrances. However, it's important to note that not all natural fragrances are completely natural, and they may still contain synthetic compounds. Additionally, just because something is natural, doesn't mean it's better for your health or the environment. For example, certain natural oils can cause irritation, photosensitivity, or trigger allergic reactions.
Synthetic fragrances, on the other hand, are created in a laboratory using chemicals and petroleum byproducts. They are designed to mimic the scent of natural fragrances while offering improved performance, affordability, and flexibility. Synthetic fragrances are often more stable and consistent than natural fragrances, making them ideal for use in candles. Reputable candle manufacturers use expertly formulated fragrances that are safe, high-quality, and approved for candle use. Additionally, synthetic fragrances can be safer to burn than natural fragrances due to their individual composition.
When creating scented candles, candle manufacturers can choose from a wide range of fragrance options, including natural, synthetic, and semi-synthetic fragrances. Semi-synthetic fragrances are artificially modified and contain a combination of synthetic and natural ingredients. The type of fragrance selected depends on various factors such as desired scent strength, compatibility with wax, and environmental considerations.
It's worth noting that the term "fragrance" on ingredient lists often refers to a combination of scents that are considered trade secrets by companies. This lack of transparency makes it challenging for consumers to make informed choices about the specific ingredients in their candles. However, reputable companies conduct various health and safety tests on raw fragrance materials to ensure their products are safe for consumers.
Ultimately, both natural and synthetic fragrances have their advantages and disadvantages. While natural fragrances may be perceived as more desirable due to their natural origins, synthetic fragrances can often provide superior performance, longevity, and environmental sustainability. The decision to use natural or synthetic fragrances in candles depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the candle maker and the intended use of the final product.
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Health and safety considerations
Flashpoint:
The flashpoint is a critical factor when working with fragrance oils. It refers to the temperature at which the oil becomes combustible if exposed to a spark or flame. This is particularly important for gel candles, as a lower flashpoint can increase the risk of fire. It is recommended to use fragrance oils with a flashpoint above 175°F (79.4°C) to minimise the risk of combustion. Always monitor the wax temperature with a candle-making thermometer to ensure safety.
Fragrance Percentage:
The amount of fragrance added to a candle should be carefully considered. Most waxes can typically hold up to 12% fragrance oil, but it is recommended to use between 6% and 10% to optimise scent throw while maintaining candle stability. Using too much fragrance can compromise the structural integrity of the candle, potentially leading to safety issues. It is also important to measure the fragrance oil by weight (grams) rather than volume (ml) to ensure an accurate wax-to-fragrance ratio.
Fragrance Selection:
Choosing a suitable fragrance is essential for safety. Reputable suppliers offer fragrances specifically formulated and approved for candle use. These fragrances undergo rigorous health and safety tests to ensure their suitability. Avoid using fragrances with known toxins, carcinogens, or mutagens. Phthalate-free options are also available and are safer for both the environment and personal use. Additionally, consider the desired strength of the scent, the environment in which the candle will be used, and the compatibility of the fragrance with your chosen wax.
Burn Test:
Conducting a burn test is crucial to ensure the safety of your scented candle. This involves burning the candle to observe its performance and identify any potential issues. Monitor the candle for stable burning behaviour and ensure it does not produce harmful emissions. A properly formulated scented candle should primarily release water vapour and carbon dioxide, along with the desired fragrance.
Shipping Considerations:
When creating candles with fragrance oils, it is important to consider shipping regulations, especially if your candles have a low flashpoint. Consult with your shipping company to understand their specific requirements and restrictions. Certain shipping methods may be restricted for candles with lower flashpoints due to fire safety concerns.
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Frequently asked questions
When you light a candle, the heat from the flame melts the wax, causing it to vaporize and release the fragrance molecules into the air.
Fragrances in candles are typically made from a combination of aromatic chemicals, essential oils, and chemical reaction agents. These fragrance materials are derived from natural sources like plants or produced in a laboratory.
The amount of fragrance added to a candle can vary, but it is generally recommended to use between 6 to 10 percent of fragrance oil in the candle mixture. Most waxes can hold up to 12 percent fragrance, and premium candles often contain up to 10 percent.
Fragrance should be added to the wax when it is hot enough for the wax to fully expand but not too hot that the fragrance degrades. The ideal temperature range is typically between 175°F to 185°F.
Reputable candle manufacturers use fragrance materials that are safe, high-quality ingredients. These fragrances undergo various health and safety tests and are also found in many other consumer products like perfumes and soaps.
