What Makes a Candle Suitable for Aromatherapy?

When you’re choosing a candle to help you relax, focus, or create a calm space, what it’s made from matters – especially with aromatherapy candles. True aromatherapy relies on the natural properties of essential oils. But those benefits can be lost when paired with synthetic waxes or artificial fragrances.

Unfortunately, many candles labelled “aromatherapy” still use synthetic ingredients. They might smell strong, but that doesn’t always mean they’re good for your wellbeing – or your indoor air.

In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between natural and synthetic candles, specifically through the lens of aromatherapy. We’ll also show you what to look for if you want a candle that offers more than just scent – one that supports a healthier, more mindful atmosphere.

What makes candles suitable for aromatherapy?

Ok, so first let’s find out what makes a true aromatherapy candle! A proper natural aromatherapy candle is made using:

• Plant-based waxes like soy, coconut, or beeswax
• Only 100% pure essential oils (without synthetic fragrance oils)
• Cotton or wooden wicks, free from chemicals or metal

These ingredients work together to create a clean, slow-burning candle that gently releases scent without the chemical additives often found in standard candles. Explore How Aromatherapy candles actually work.

What’s in a Synthetic Candle?

Synthetic candles are often made with a blend of paraffin wax, artificial fragrance oils, and wicks that may contain metal or synthetic stiffeners. These materials are usually chosen to keep costs low and create strong, fast-acting scents. But when it comes to aromatherapy, not all candles marketed that way are the real deal.

Some brands use synthetic fragrance oils that mimic the smell of natural plants but don’t carry any therapeutic benefit. Others create a blend of essential oils and synthetic compounds, then highlight only the essential oil content on the label. The packaging might suggest calm, wellness, or self-care – often featuring soft colours, natural imagery, or buzzwords like “relaxing” and “soothing scent.”

This can be misleading. While the candle might smell pleasant, it isn’t offering true aromatherapy. A genuine aromatherapy candle is made entirely with pure essential oils – not synthetic blends – because essential oils contain the active plant compounds that interact with the brain and nervous system.

So while a candle might be labelled as “aromatherapy” or “infused with essential oils,” it’s worth reading the full ingredient list. If you see “fragrance,” “parfum,” or “fragrance oil” listed – even alongside essential oils – it’s not a fully natural product, and the wellness benefits may not be what the label implies.

Aromatherapy Candle Comparison: Natural vs Synthetic

If you’re interested in exploring this topic further, read our Natural vs. Synthetic Candles: How to Choose the Best Ones article.

Do Natural Aromatherapy Candles Still Smell Strong?

Yes – but their scent works differently. Natural aromatherapy candles don’t fill the room with fragrance in seconds. Instead, they build a soft, layered aroma as the wax warms and the essential oils evaporate. It’s a more subtle and authentic experience – one that engages your senses without overwhelming them.

Because essential oils release their scent in phases (top, middle, and base notes), you’ll often notice a gentle shift in mood as the candle burns. Citrus oils like lime or sweet orange may greet you first, followed by more grounding notes like patchouli or cedarwood.

The goal of a natural aromatherapy candle isn’t to mask smells – it’s to shift how you feel.

Why Some People Still Prefer Synthetic Candles

Synthetic candles are often louder in scent and easier to find. They’re widely available, usually less expensive, and come in bold fragrances that fill a room quickly. For some, that strong scent throw is comforting or nostalgic.

They also dominate many retail spaces – from high street gift shops to large chain supermarkets – and are often chosen as quick gifts or impulse buys. Many shoppers simply aren’t aware of the difference in ingredients, or how those ingredients may affect their space and health.

Are Synthetic Candles Bad for You?

It depends on what they’re made from and how they’re used. Many synthetic candles contain paraffin wax, which can release soot and potentially harmful compounds like benzene and toluene when burned. Some also use phthalates in their fragrance oils – compounds that have been linked to hormone disruption. And formaldehyde may form as a byproduct of burning certain synthetic blends. These emissions are more likely when the candle burns in an unventilated space or is made with low-quality materials.

Natural candles avoid these ingredients altogether – offering a cleaner, more balanced way to enjoy scent. Find out more about Different Types of Candles.

How to Spot a True Aromatherapy Candle

Look for candles that meet all of the following:

• ✅ Made with 100% essential oils (no synthetic “fragrance oils” or “parfum”)
• ✅ Uses natural wax like soy, coconut, or beeswax
• ✅ Contains a cotton or wooden wick (not metal or chemically treated)
• ✅ Lists all ingredients clearly and honestly
• ✅ Made with a focus on therapeutic benefit, not just strong scent

A real aromatherapy candle works with your body, not just your nose.

Final Thoughts

If you’re burning a candle to unwind, sleep better, or improve focus, the ingredients behind the scent really matter. Natural aromatherapy candles offer a cleaner, more mindful way to enjoy fragrance, and the benefits go far beyond the smell itself.

Once you try a candle made with pure essential oils and plant-based wax, you might never go back.

Rita Sniolyte

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