Looking for the best scented candles for the perfect gift or for a treat for yourself? Whether's it's home decor or a stocking filler present you're scouting for, the various types of candles can feel like a minefield. We breakdown the different candles available, what they mean and which type is best for you.
What are scented candles?
Scented candles are a popular choice when it comes to creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere in your home. These candles are infused with various fragrances, which are released when it is lit. The scents can range from floral and fruity to musky and woody, allowing you to choose the perfect aroma to suit your mood.
Scented candles are typically made with a combination of natural and synthetic ingredients, ensuring a long-lasting and consistent fragrance. Whether you want to relax after a long day, set the mood for a romantic evening, or create a warm ambience for a special occasion, scented candles are the perfect addition to any space.
Benefits of scented candles
Scented candles are more than just a decorative item for your home; they have numerous benefits that can enhance your well-being and create a soothing atmosphere. Aromatherapy candles can be made using essential oils - like lavender, which not only provide a pleasant fragrance but also have the power to positively impact your mood, stress levels, and sleep quality. However, it's recommended only small quantities of natural essential oils should be infused in candles, as too much can be a hazard. Most fragrance oils can also be crafted with essential oils as well for their aroma, so normal scented candles may already have essential oils in them.
One of the main benefits of scented candles to help with relaxation and relieve stress. The aroma released from the essential oil candles can help calm your mind, reduce anxiety, and create a sense of tranquillity in your surroundings. Additionally, certain scents like a lavender candle or chamomile can be particularly helpful in promoting better sleep, allowing you to unwind after a long day.
Scented candles also offer the convenience of aromatherapy, a therapeutic practice that uses natural scents to promote well-being. By lighting a natural candle, you can effortlessly incorporate aromatherapy into your daily routine, whether you're relaxing in the bath, meditating, or simply enjoying some quiet time. They also make the perfect birthday gift for a friend, loved one or partner as they can be used all year round.
There are various ranges of scented candles available, each catering to different needs. Some candles are specifically designed for relaxation, with calming scents like vanilla or lavender, while others are formulated to boost energy levels with invigorating fragrances like lemon and lime or peppermint.
Incorporating scented candles into your life can be a simple yet effective way to enhance your well-being and create a soothing atmosphere in your home.
Our Lemongrass & Persian Lime candle is made from soy wax and eco-friendly wicks, safe for you and the planet.
Types of scented candles
Synthetic fragrances
Synthetic fragrances in scented candles have gained widespread popularity due to their ability to create a pleasant aroma. Shop around and look at the labels for fragranced candles. UK candle companies have to list allergens for consumers and list the proper health or hazardous warnings on every single product. Make sure the common allergens listed on luxury candles are not going to cause irritation.
Natural fragrances
Natural fragrances are often marketed as a healthier and more eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fragrances. They are derived from natural substances such as plants, flowers, and fruits, giving them a more authentic and subtle scent. Unlike essential oils, which are extracted through a distillation process and capture the distinct fragrance of a specific plant or flower, natural fragrances are typically created by blending multiple natural ingredients to create a unique scent.
However, the lack of disclosure and regulation surrounding natural fragrances poses potential risks for consumers. Unlike essential oils, which require proper labelling and disclosure of the specific plants used in their extraction, there is no standard definition or regulation for natural fragrances. This means that candle makers can use a variety of undisclosed ingredients, including synthetic components, without having to disclose them on the label of the candle jar.
This lack of transparency makes it difficult for shoppers to understand all aspects of what they're buying on the products they purchase. It also increases the risk of potential allergic reactions or sensitivities to undisclosed ingredients.
In contrast, natural candles scented with 100% essential oils provide a more reliable option - if this is something you prefer. Standard fragrance oils are not harmful, hence why they're allowed to be used and deemed safe in soy candles.
Vegan candles
Vegan candles are a wonderful choice for those seeking a more sustainable and cruelty-free option in their home decor. These candles are crafted using paraffin, or natural soy wax. The use of natural soy wax in vegan candles also means that they emit less harmful toxins or chemicals into the air when they are burned, compared to paraffin. All candles, whether natural wax candles or beeswax, can emit some level of soot, but research shows soy wax candles produce less soot than paraffin for a cleaner burn.
One of the biggest advantages of vegan candles is that they do not contain any animal-derived ingredients. This makes them suitable for vegans and vegetarians and those who prefer to avoid animal products in their daily lives. Beeswax candles are not considered vegan as it uses animal ingredients. Also, not all vegan candles are made equal. It doesn't mean the product or its raw materials are cruelty-free and not tested on animals. If you're unsure, you can check whether the company is cruelty-free from their website, or contact form or by checking if they are PETA-approved on their website.
Vegan and cruelty-free go hand-in-hand for Buff. We don't think beauty or home decor products should or need to use animal by-products or be tested on animals. We're proud all of our lovely candles, soaps, and lip scrubs are not only vegan but cruelty-free. We oppose animal testing in all forms.
So, if you're looking for a sustainable and cruelty-free way to create a warm and inviting ambience in your space, vegan candles are definitely worth considering. Their use of natural soy wax and essential oils not only benefits you but also the environment and animals.
Relax and unwind with our Lavender & Fresh Laundry soy candle.
Natural soy wax candles
When looking at wax type, natural soy wax candles offer a range of benefits and properties that make them a popular choice for vegan and environmentally conscious individuals or as a gift idea. Made from the oil of soybeans, soy wax is a renewable and sustainable resource that supports local farmers and reduces dependence on fossil fuels. Searching for sustainable candles is a lot easier than it use to be, thanks to soy. The plant grows quicker than it can be harvested so is a greater longer alternative and doesn't harm the planet.
One of the major advantages of using soy wax is its clean burn. Soy wax is free from toxic chemicals and synthetic fragrances, making it a healthier option for both you and the environment. Additionally, soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin wax, resulting in a longer-lasting performance and extended burn time.
To avoid toxic candles or for those who follow a vegan lifestyle, soy wax candles are a perfect choice. Vegan candles tend to come with eco-friendly cotton wicks or wood wicks, depending on whether you love the crackling sound!
How to choose the right scented candle for you?
Choosing the right non-toxic candles can enhance your mood, create a cosy atmosphere, and even promote relaxation and well-being. With so many options available, it's important to consider your preferences and needs when selecting the perfect candle for you.
Start by deciding on the type of fragrance you prefer, whether it's a floral scent, a soothing essential oil blend, or something more unique. Next, consider the ingredients used in the candle. Opt for candles made with natural soy wax, as these options are cleaner and more environmentally friendly.
Additionally, check for lead-free cotton wicks and avoid candles that contain synthetic fragrances or toxic chemicals. Eco-friendly or wooden wicks or an unbleached cotton wick are a better alternative.
Finally, consider factors such as burn time and customer feedback, like 4 or 5-star reviews to find a candle that lasts longer and has positive ratings. Customer reviews can give you an indication it was a good candle! Although everyone has a different opinion, reviews from customers can be a starting point. By taking these factors into consideration, you'll be able to choose a scented candle that suits your preferences and creates the perfect ambience in your space. They'll also make an excellent gift or addition to a homemade pamper box.
If your intention is to create a relaxing and serene environment, you might opt for scented candles with lavender or chamomile. These fragrances are known for their soothing properties and can help promote a sense of calm and tranquillity. On the other hand, if your goal is to eliminate unpleasant odours, organic candles with fresh and crisp candle scents like lemon or eucalyptus can be effective.
If you're a lover of citrus, zesty lemongrass and lime candles will give you that boost. Or perhaps something exotic like goji berry and blood orange, which has a soft aroma.
For fruity favourites, our watermelon mojito candle will make you feel like you're laying on the beach with a cocktail no matter the weather.
