Why I choose fragrance oil in my candles instead of essential oils
As an avid essential oil (EO) user, I understand the power and importance of these natural extracts. Essential oils are incredibly versatile and are used daily in my own routine for their therapeutic benefits. Whether it’s promoting relaxation, supporting focus, or purifying the air, I’m definitely a proponent of using essential oils. But when it comes to candle making, I consciously choose premium fragrance oils. Why? Let me explain.
Essential Oils and Heat: The Therapeutic Effect Lost
A very unpopular opinion... because well... anyone who sells aromatherapy candles... Essential oils are delicate and their therapeutic properties are very sensitive to temperature. When heated above 40 degrees Celsius, most essential oils begin to lose their chemical composition or can even become harmful. This means that when a candle containing essential oil is lit, most of the beneficial effects of the oil are lost. The scent may still be present, but the therapeutic benefits - which we value so much when using EO - are no longer effective.
To me this means that adding essential oils to candles is not the best way to use their powerful properties, and it is a waste of money. When you burn your candle, you usually reach temperatures much higher than 40 degrees, which ultimately means that you no longer benefit from the beneficial effects of the oil, only the scent. Then it actually becomes a scent therapy that you can also achieve with Premium scented oil.
The Benefits of Premium Fragrance Oil in Candles
Instead, I choose to use premium fragrance oils in my candles. Fragrance oils are specially formulated for use in candles and other scented products. They are designed to remain stable at high temperatures and release a pleasant, consistent scent throughout the entire burn time of the candle. This ensures that your candle lasts longer and provides a constant, wonderful scent throughout your space.
Additionally, premium fragrance oils offer a much wider range of scent profiles than essential oils. This gives me as a creator the freedom to create unique, layered scents that suit different moods, seasons, and preferences. While essential oils are often more singular in scent (think lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus), fragrance oils can be more complexly blended for a richer scent experience. Premium fragrance oil is also made in a controlled environment with, among other things, essential oil, so allergens will always be listed on the CLP just as they are with my essential oils.
Balance between natural power and optimum fragrance pleasure
So while I am a huge believer in the therapeutic power of essential oils, I also believe in using the right product for the right application. Essential oils belong in aromatherapy, skin care, and personal wellness where they are most effective and not exposed to high temperatures. For candles, where the scent experience is the most important goal, premium fragrance oil is the best choice.
By choosing to use scented oils in my candles, I can ensure that each candle not only smells great, but also provides a consistent scent release from start to finish. Essential oils are also more volatile, meaning that the scent can easily be lost halfway through the candle. This gives my customers the best experience and value for money. It also means that I have more creative freedom to create scents that are not only enjoyable to smell, but also leave a lasting impression.
Toxic vs Non-Toxic
Essential oils and fragrance oils vary greatly in their composition and potential toxic effects. Essential oils are pure and are extracted from plants through distillation. Although natural, some EOs can be toxic to pets and small children, even in small amounts. For this reason, they should always be used with care and are not for nothing in bottles or roll-ons (sometimes with a tamper-proof cap).
Good premium fragrance oils on the other hand are a blend of natural essential oils, hydrosols and environmentally controlled components, specifically designed for use in products like candles and soaps. Not all fragrance oils are safe; some can contain harmful chemicals! That’s why I choose premium fragrance oils that are specifically formulated to be safe for use in candles and are non-toxic and most importantly free of harmful chemicals. It’s always important to choose products that are carefully formulated with non-toxic ingredients to ensure a safe environment for everyone.
Conclusion
So, while I am a huge believer in essential oils and enjoy their benefits daily, I consciously choose to use premium fragrance oils in my candles. This is because I believe in the power of each fragrance experience I create, and I want my customers to get the very best – a candle that not only smells great, but is also specially made for them to get the most out of every burn.
| Benefits of Premium Fragrance Oil | Disadvantages of Essential Oil in Candles |
|---|
| Specially developed for use in candles | Loses therapeutic effect at temperatures above 40°C |
| Provides a stable and long-lasting fragrance release | Odors evaporate faster and are less intense |
| Wider range of complex and unique fragrance combinations possible | Limited choice of single fragrances and some blends |
| Safe to burn (when using high quality fragrance oils) | Some essential oils can be toxic to pets and children |
| Consistent fragrance experience from start to finish | Less effective for scent diffusion due to temperature sensitivity |
| Designed not to release harmful fumes | May cause irritation or allergic reactions in some cases |
| Flash point has been determined, making them safe to use in candles |
No flash point determined, which may increase the risk of flammability |
Thank you for your trust in my products and my approach to creating a fragrant and cozy environment in your home! You can buy these scented candles online or pick them up by appointment in Stabroek.