Soy candles have gained popularity as a natural and eco-friendly alternative to paraffin candles, and in recent years, hundreds of Starlite Soap Studio customers have learned all the tips and tricks for creating beautiful soy candles.
One of the topics discussed within the workshop is how to make your soy candles smell great. Many people assume that the best way to do this is to use essential oils, and are surprised to learn that they are not usually the best choice for candles.
If you are unfamiliar with the terminology, essential oils are distilled from real plants, leaves, bark or flowers, and contain the essence of the plants from which they are derived. Fragrance oils, however, are synthesized to smell like "the real thing" but do not always contain natural elements.
In this blog, we'll explore the reasons why using essential oils in soy candles can pose challenges and why fragrance oils designed for candles are usually a better alternative.
Burning Issues:
One of the main concerns with using essential oils in soy candles is the potential for improper burning. Essential oils have a lower flash point compared to fragrance oils, which means they can ignite and cause the flame to jump out of the candle. This not only poses a safety risk but can also result in uneven burning, affecting the overall performance of the candle.
Scent Throw Struggles:
Soy wax naturally has a lower scent throw compared to other types of wax, making it more challenging to achieve a strong fragrance from the candle. Essential oils can exacerbate this issue because they tend to evaporate quickly and may not provide a consistent scent throughout the entire burn of the candle. This can leave you with a candle that lacks the desired aromatic experience.
The Price Tag:
Another aspect to consider is the cost of essential oils. They can be quite expensive, making it financially impractical to use them in candle-making, especially for large-scale production. Thankfully, there are numerous fragrance oils available that are specifically formulated for candles. These oils often offer a more affordable and reliable option, delivering a stronger and more consistent scent throw.
In conclusion, while essential oils may seem like a natural and appealing choice for adding fragrance to soy candles, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks. At Starlite Soap Studio, we suggest that fragrance oils be used in these products for a consistent burn, a satisfying scent throw, and a more cost-effective solution for your candle-making endeavors. We hope you will join us one day soon for a soy or beeswax candle making workshop!