When it comes to candle making, both fragrance oils
and essential oils
have their benefits and drawbacks. Essential oils are natural and often have therapeutic properties, making them popular with people who prefer natural products. They also tend to have a subtler scent and may not be as overpowering as fragrance oils. On the other hand, essential oils can be more expensive and may not always be strong enough to create a noticeable scent in candles.
Fragrance oils, on the other hand, are created in a lab and can be formulated to have a wide range of scents, from subtle to strong. They can also be less expensive than essential oils and may have a longer shelf life. However, some people are sensitive to synthetic fragrances, and fragrance oils may not have the same therapeutic benefits as essential oils.
Ultimately, the choice between fragrance oils and essential oils comes down to personal preference and the intended use of the candle. If you’re looking for a natural, subtle scent or therapeutic benefits, essential oils may be the way to go. If you’re looking for a wider range of scents or a stronger scent, fragrance oils may be a better option.
So what is the actual truth?
What are the differences between fragrance oils and essential oils?
Fragrance oils are usually synthetic, although they can smell like natural flowers, plants or fruits. Sometimes both fragrance oils and essential oils are used in a fragrance blend so would not necessarily be considered “natural” by those looking for aromatherapy-type scents.
On the other hand, fragrance oils are frequently referred to as “aromatherapy” scents. Technically, they don’t have the medicinal or therapeutic properties of essential oils, but that doesn’t mean they won’t cheer you up. Also, fragrance oils provide more scent selections at a cheaper price, as almost any scent can be duplicated synthetically in the lab.
Essential oils are plant based and made using distillation, cold pressing or they are extracted with a solvent like alcohol. These processes gets the “essence” out of the plants to be used for medicinal purposes or for bath and body products.
Essential oils tend to be more expensive because obtaining them requires more effort. For example, according to the “Roses” article on Botanical.com, it takes 30 roses to make 1 drop of essential oil and 60,000 roses to make one ounce. Since you can use up to half an ounce of essential oil per pound of wax in candle making, you can imagine how expensive that would be to use in candles.
Some of the different healing properties of essential oils
Essential oils are popular for their aromatic and therapeutic properties. These oils have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and have a variety of healing properties. Some of the different healing properties of essential oils are described below:
Peppermint: Peppermint essential oil is known for its invigorating and energizing properties. It is often used to improve mental clarity, reduce fatigue, and increase alertness. Peppermint is also believed to have a cooling effect, making it a popular choice for use in candles during the warmer months.
Citrus: Citrus essential oils, including lemon, grapefruit, and orange, are known for their uplifting and refreshing properties. These oils can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and promote a positive mood. They are often used in candles to create a bright and cheerful atmosphere.
Citronella: Citronella essential oil is known for its insect-repelling properties. It is often used in candles and other products designed to keep mosquitoes and other bugs at bay.
Lemongrass: Lemongrass essential oil is another insect-repelling oil that is often used in candles. It has a fresh, citrusy scent that can help to promote mental clarity and focus.
Lavender: Lavender essential oil is famous for its relaxing and calming properties. It is often used to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote restful sleep. Lavender is a popular choice for candles designed for use in bedrooms and other areas where relaxation is the goal.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon essential oil is known for its warming and stimulating properties. It is often used to promote circulation and reduce feelings of fatigue. Cinnamon is a popular choice for use in candles during the colder months, as its warm, spicy scent can create a cozy atmosphere.
Rose: Rose essential oil is known for its romantic and sensual properties. It is often used to promote feelings of love and intimacy. Rose is a popular choice for candles designed for use during romantic evenings or special occasions.
Essential oils and heat
Essential oils are volatile and can be sensitive to heat. When essential oils are heated, they can evaporate more quickly, which can affect their aroma and therapeutic properties. Some essential oils, such as lavender, patchouli, and lemongrass, have stronger scents and may hold up better in heat. It’s important to consider the type of essential oil being used when making scented candles and to take steps to avoid overheating the oil.
What about allergies?
Using essential oils in homemade soap and massage candles can be a great way to enhance their therapeutic benefits, but it’s important to be aware that some people can have allergic or adverse reactions to these oils. Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, or even more serious health problems if used improperly. It’s important to ensure that the essential oils you use in your soap or massage candle are safe for skin contact.
One way to ensure that you’re using skin-safe essential oils is to purchase them from a reputable source that provides detailed information about the oil’s purity and quality. Be sure to read the label carefully and check for any warnings or cautions about potential side effects or skin sensitivity. Some essential oils, such as citrus oils, can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun and should be avoided if you’re going to be spending time outdoors.
Another option is to use fragrance oils instead of essential oils. Fragrance oils are synthetic blends that mimic the scent of natural essential oils but are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. They can be a good alternative for people with sensitive skin or those who are prone to allergies. However, fragrance oils don’t offer the same therapeutic benefits as essential oils, so if you’re looking for a more natural and holistic option, essential oils are likely the better choice.
When making soap or massage candles with essential oils, it’s important to use them in the right amounts to avoid overexposure. A general rule of thumb is to use no more than 2% essential oils in your soap or candle recipe. This will provide enough scent and therapeutic benefits without causing skin irritation. Additionally, it’s important to test the essential oils on a small patch of skin before using them in your soap or massage candle. This will help you determine if you have any sensitivity or allergies to the oil.
So…
There are advantages and disadvantages to both, so the choice depends on individual preference, scent desire and of course budget. I tend to use both as there are so many fun candle fragrances to choose from. Which if any do you prefer?