Warm and pleasantly fragrant. These two words perfectly describe an aromatherapy candle.
Scented candles are candles that contain essential oils or aromatherapy oils in various fragrance variants.
When the candle melts through the heat of the flame, a soft and calming aroma slowly spreads throughout the room. The scent helps create a sense of peace for anyone who inhales it.
So, what are the commonly used ingredients in aromatherapy candles? Learn more about each material and their unique characteristics below!
Using aromatherapy candles offers soothing benefits
Scent is deeply connected to human psychology, especially in terms of emotions and memory. Certain fragrances can trigger past memories, influence mood, and even affect behavior.
For example, you might recall how peaceful and calm you felt while in a forest. The fresh scent of trees instantly washes away fatigue.
Lighting a candle that smells like a forest or trees can bring about the same relaxing and refreshing feeling as being there in person.
Aromatherapy candles not only offer a warm, calming glow, but also release the refreshing scent of essential oils infused within them.
That’s why scented candles are a must-have in spas for relaxation. Placing an aromatherapy candle in a corner of your home can also lift the mood and ease anxiety.
As the wax slowly melts, heat from the flame helps the essential oils evaporate into the air. This vapor carries many positive effects for both body and mind.
Essential oils like lavender, jasmine, or vanilla in IKEA's aromatherapy candles can help foster a calmer and more comforting mood.
The gentle aroma dispersed through the room helps reduce stress after a long day, relax the body, and even improve sleep quality.
Also read: 7 Benefits of aromatherapy candles for relaxation and wellness
Common materials used in aromatherapy candles
The market offers a wide range of scented candles made from various base materials, either plant-based or petroleum-based. Each material has its own characteristics and loyal fans.
Parafin wax is commonly used in commercial candles
Paraffin is the most widely used material in commercial candles due to its affordability and moldability.
It is derived from petroleum, which gives paraffin candles a smooth texture that can be shaped into various forms and sizes.
However, it’s worth noting that burning paraffin candles can release certain chemicals that may affect indoor air quality.
So if you’re sensitive to synthetic scents or have respiratory issues, it’s best to consider more environmentally friendly options.
Beeswax candles offer a natural, honey-like aroma
Beeswax is a natural substance harvested directly from beehives. These candles have a soft, naturally sweet honey scent, even without added fragrance.
One of the biggest advantages of beeswax is its long burn time compared to other types of candles.
Additionally, beeswax is known to purify the air by releasing negative ions that trap dust and allergens.
This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy and natural everyday candle.
Soy wax candles are eco-friendly and easy to clean
Soy wax is made from hydrogenated soybean oil, making it a favorite among environmentally conscious consumers.
Soy candles tend to burn cleaner, produce no black soot, and emit fragrance gently and evenly across the room.
As a plant-based material, soy wax is also easy to clean if spilled and is suitable for long-term aromatherapy use.
Soy candles are ideal for those who want a relaxing atmosphere without worrying about environmental impact.
Palm wax candles are durable and aesthetically pleasing
Palm wax is derived from palm oil and is known for its natural crystal-like patterns. Its harder texture makes it more heat-resistant and slower to melt, allowing for longer use.
These candles burn steadily and are great for decorative candle designs. However, make sure to choose products from manufacturers that use sustainable palm oil to avoid harming the environment.
How to choose the right aromatherapy candle material
Scented candles are always captivating, but it’s also important to consider health and room compatibility.
Each material affects the quality of the burn, the strength of the fragrance, and environmental impact. Let’s take a closer look!
Match the candle to your room size and desired atmosphere
Start by considering the size and function of the room where the candle will be used.
If you're lighting a candle in a large space like a living room or family room, choose a candle with a strong scent and materials that distribute fragrance evenly, such as paraffin or soy wax with high scent concentration.
For smaller rooms like bedrooms or bathrooms, a candle with a soft fragrance will suffice to avoid overwhelming the senses. The right scent will create a more relaxing and comfortable ambiance.
Consider your health and personal preferences
Everyone has different levels of sensitivity to scents and chemicals.
If you have a history of allergies, asthma, or get dizzy from strong scents, avoid paraffin candles, as they may release irritants when burned.
Instead, choose natural alternatives like soy wax or beeswax, which are gentler on the nose and carry a lower risk of irritation.
You should also select fragrances that suit your mood and personal taste. Lavender for relaxation or citrus for an energizing effect.
Compare burn time and cost for practical choices
The type of wax also affects how long the candle will last. Beeswax, for instance, is known for its long burn time, though it tends to be more expensive than paraffin.
If you plan to use candles regularly and are looking for a long-term investment, beeswax is a great option despite the higher price.
However, if you only want to enjoy scents occasionally, paraffin or soy wax candles may offer a more economical solution.
Also read: Room fresheners: fresh scents with multiple benefits
IKEA offers affordable aromatherapy candle options
