The Magic Behind Scented Candles: Aromatic Alchemy

Hello Candle Lovers!

Scented candles have the incredible power to transform any space into a haven of tranquility and relaxation. Their captivating aromas can evoke memories, uplift moods, and even improve the ambiance of a room. But have you ever wondered what makes a candle scented? In this blog, we will delve into the fascinating world of scented candles and explore the secrets behind their enchanting fragrances.

The Basics of Candle Making

Before we dive into the specifics of what makes a candle scented, let's briefly touch on the basics of candle making. At its core, a candle is a simple product consisting of three main components: wax, a wick, and a container. The wax serves as the fuel source, while the wick allows the flame to burn steadily. The container, on the other hand, holds the wax and provides structure to the candle.

Adding Fragrance

The key to creating a scented candle lies in the addition of fragrance oils or essential oils to the wax. These oils are responsible for the delightful scents that waft through the air when the candle is lit. There are two primary types of fragrance oils used in scented candles:

1. Fragrance Oils: These are synthetically processed botanical oils created in a lab, specifically designed to mimic various scents. These fragrance oils offer a wide range of options, from the comforting aroma of vanilla to the fresh scent of lavender. Candle makers carefully select and blend these oils to create unique and appealing fragrances. Fragrance oils specially for candles have been stabilised through various processes so they can perform better in scent throw and in volatile conditions with the flame.

2. Essential Oils: Essential oils are derived from plant materials through a process of distillation or cold-press extraction. They are the natural essences of plants and have therapeutic properties in addition to their pleasant scents. Essential oils can be costly in nature and having volatile flash points (the level oil catches fire), making it not too suitable for most candle makers.

Certified safe oil

It is vital to ensure fragrance oils in candle making are according to the standards of the governing body - International Fragrance Association (IFRA). This ensures the level of toxicity , harmful substances and synthetic substances are regulated and not included into the fragrance oils. 

The Art of Fragrance Blending

Creating the perfect scent for a candle is an art in itself. Candle makers experiment with various fragrance oils and essential oils to find the ideal combination that will evoke the desired mood or atmosphere. It's a delicate balance of choosing the right oils and ensuring that the scent is not too overpowering while ensuring the candle burns well.

The perfect balance of scent concentration matters.

The intensity of the fragrance in a scented candle is important. Making a candle to have the most optimised scent throw is vital to ensure a comfortable usage throughout the time the candle is lit. An overpowering scented candle can cause discomfort and reaction like sneezing, headaches and overstimulation of the scent of smell.

The Role of Wax

The type of wax used in a scented candle also plays a significant role in the overall experience. Common candle waxes include paraffin wax, soy wax, and beeswax. Each type of wax has its unique qualities that can affect how the fragrance is dispersed and how long the candle burns. Soy wax, for example, is known for its ability to hold onto fragrances and release them gradually as the candle burns.

Conclusion

Scented candles are more than just sources of light and warmth; they are vessels of aromatic alchemy. The carefully crafted combination of fragrance oils or essential oils, along with the choice of wax and concentration, determines the character and potency of the scent. So the next time you light a scented candle and are enveloped in its delightful aroma, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the intricate process that goes into making these magical creations. Whether you're looking to relax, unwind, or simply enjoy a pleasant fragrance, scented candles have something for everyone, and their enchanting scents will continue to fill our homes with warmth and comfort.