What is the difference between Fragrance and Essential Oils?
You may have noticed terms like essential oils and fragrance oils on the candle label when shopping for candles. But what exactly is the difference between these two, and why does it matter? In this article, I will dive deeper into both, so you will understand the differences and make the best choice for your home.
What are Fragrance Oils?
Fragrance oils are specially formulated scent compounds used in candles, soaps, perfumes, and other scented products. Unlike essential oils, which come solely from natural plant sources, fragrance oils are either synthetic, natural, or a blend of both to create long-lasting scents.
Types of Fragrance Oils
There are two main types of fragrance oils:
Synthetic Fragrance Oils
- Created using man-made aroma compounds.
- Designed to replicate natural scents.
- Often diluted with a carrier like propylene glycol, vegetable oil, or mineral oil to ensure stability and longevity.
- Used in commercial candles for their strong scent throw and durability.
2. Natural Fragrance Oils
- Derived from natural botanical sources but still processed manually.
- Extracted using techniques like solvent extraction, or CO2 extraction.
- Used when a scent isn’t possible through essential oils alone.
Pros of Fragrances Oils
- Stronger Scent Throw: They fill a room more effectively and last longer.
- Wider Variety of Scents: The possibilities are endless, from classic vanilla to unique blends like toasted marshmallows.
- More Consistency: Fragrance oils maintain their strength and character over time.
Cons of Fragrances Oils
- Not 100% Natural: Some fragrance oils contain synthetic components, although they are formulated to be safe and non-toxic.
At Satisfying Scents, I’m all about creating strong, long-lasting fragrances that make your space feel cozy and inviting. I use fragrance oils in all of my candles. Fragrance oils give me the flexibility to offer a wide variety of scents, while still delivering a consistent, high-quality, fragrant experience with every candle.
If you’re someone who loves a candle that fills the room with amazing fragrance, you’re in the right place! Take a look at my collection and find the perfect scent to brighten up your home.
What are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are natural extracts derived from plants, flowers, fruits, and herbs through methods like steam distillation or cold pressing. They are commonly used in aromatherapy, natural skincare, and holistic wellness because of their plant-based origins. Essential oils are not created for the primary purpose of scenting candles.
Pros of Essential Oils
- Natural Ingredients: Derived directly from nature.
- Aromatherapy Benefits: Some claim they promote relaxation or energy.
Cons of Essential Oils
- Weaker Scent Throw: Essential oils don’t disperse as strongly in wax, making their scent lighter and shorter-lasting.
- Limited Variety: The range of scents is restricted to what exists in nature—no unique blends like birthday cake or fresh linen.
- Heat Sensitivity: Many essential oils degrade at high temperatures, meaning they may lose their aroma when burned in a candle.
When it comes to choosing between essential oils and fragrance oils for candles, it all comes down to what you’re looking for in your scent experience. Essential oils are natural extracts from plants, offering a more subtle, earthy aroma, but they can be weaker and don’t last as long when burned. On the other hand, fragrance oils—whether synthetic, natural, or a blend—are designed to deliver bold, long-lasting scents that really fill the room. They offer a wider range of creative options, from sweet treats to fresh florals, and perform consistently over time.
At Satisfying Scents, I use fragrance oils to ensure you get a rich, long-lasting fragrance that fills your home with the scents you love. So, if you’re after a powerful, lasting aroma, fragrance oils are the way to go!
