Feel good with natural scented candles

In an increasingly fast-paced world, we seek places where we feel safe and secure. Scents trigger something within us; they awaken memories, change moods, create emotions, and help us relax. The aroma of natural scented candles affects our senses in many ways and is much more than just a pretty home accessory.

A scented candle consists of wax, fragrance, and a wick. When lit, the wick melts the wax, and the heat causes the fragrance to evaporate and spread into the room air. So far, so simple. However, the diffusion and quality of the scent depend crucially on the quality of the wax and the fragrance. Cheap candles are usually made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum production, and use synthetic aromas and fragrances, whose industrial production is very inexpensive. High-quality organic scented candles, on the other hand, are made from plant-based waxes and preferably use essential oils for scenting.

Most candles are made from paraffin. This inexpensive raw material has a negative ecological footprint, harms the environment, and therefore also ourselves. Additionally, paraffin burns relatively quickly, can produce unpleasant soot, and may even release concerning substances such as alkanes, alkenes, toluene, or benzene into the surroundings. A somewhat better alternative is candles made from stearin. Stearin wax has the advantage of burning longer than paraffin candles and producing less soot. Unfortunately, most stearin candles are made from palm oil, which often comes from non-sustainable plantations that destroy rainforests. Inferior waxes also affect the quality of the scent and reduce its diffusion.

The natural, vegan, and sustainable alternative is pure soy wax and rapeseed wax. These waxes are purely plant-based, renewable, and 100% biodegradable. They are made from the oils of soybeans and rapeseed. Besides the ecological benefits, these waxes also offer practical advantages. Soy wax candles burn about 30%-50% slower than paraffin candles of comparable size. Due to the lower melting point, the scent spreads more evenly than with industrial candles. Additionally, soy wax is completely odorless, allowing the valuable fragrance additives to come through optimally. Rapeseed wax has similar beneficial properties to soy wax but, due to its softer texture, can only be poured into glass containers without additives. It also has a very subtle natural scent, which either goes unnoticed or can complement the actual fragrance. From a sustainability perspective, rapeseed wax is even the better alternative because rapeseed is grown in Europe, resulting in shorter transport routes. Soy is mainly grown in the USA, Brazil, and Argentina. Responsible brands ensure that only soy from non-GMO cultivation and sustainably managed farms is used.

Beeswax represents another ecological and sustainable alternative. It is an animal product and, due to its relatively strong natural honey scent, price, and complex processing, is mostly used in the DIY sector or finds enthusiasts as a niche product.

Fragrances can generally be divided into two categories: synthetic fragrances produced in the laboratory and natural fragrances derived from plant-based raw materials, such as essential oils. Cheap synthetic fragrance oils smell overpowering, lack depth and complexity, and can cause headaches. However, high-quality synthetic fragrance oils can also be a viable alternative for premium scented candles. 

The preference of most brands of natural and high-quality scented candles, however, lies with natural fragrances. Essential oils are basically plant extracts. They are obtained by steam distillation, extraction, or pressing from various plant parts (flowers, bark, leaves, or fruits). Essential oils have a particularly strong effect through their scent. The positive effect of essential oils on humans is undisputed among both natural scientists and naturopaths. Fine fragrances and precious aromas can positively influence our emotional balance, help us relax and recharge, relieve discomfort, transport us to mysterious worlds, and enhance our overall well-being. Last but not least, high-quality, exquisite scents create a great room atmosphere.

Just like perfumes, there is something for everyone with scented candles. Warm, elegant, and opulent like Sandalwood and Patchouli, zesty like Bergamot, Mandarin, or Grapefruit, floral notes of Lily of the Valley, Violet, and Rose, or oriental moods of Vetiver, Amber, and Vanilla – candle perfumers create pleasant, surprising, and functional room fragrances for a perfect feel-good atmosphere. Natural scented candles enhance the mood in any room, whether living, dining, or bedroom.

Proper candle care ensures the best quality and extends the burn time of a scented candle.

• Trim the wick of your candle to about 5 mm before each lighting or after the candle has cooled.
• Please throw the cut-off part in the trash; do not leave any wick remnants in your candle glass.
• Before lighting, make sure the wick is standing straight.
• For an even burn, the wax should melt to the edge of the container each time you burn it to avoid tunneling.
• Place the soy wax scented candle on a flat surface and protect it from drafts.
• Let a candle burn for at least 1.5 hours to fill a medium-sized room with fragrance.
• As a rule of thumb, a 200 ml organic soy wax candle has a burn time of about 40 to 50 hours.
• For a special scent experience or even more coziness, you can arrange several scented candles on a tray or distribute them around the room.

When the candle is used up, feel free to reuse the glass. Clean it, and you have a jam jar or pencil holder – or whatever you want!

Scented candles from the following manufacturers are available at Blanda Beauty: Looops, Salt & Stone, Naturallogic, Lima & P.F. Candle Co.

Natural scented candles are more than a trendy lifestyle product – they combine beauty, soothing fragrances, and sustainability. They not only create a pleasant atmosphere in your home but are also an eco-friendly and health-conscious alternative to conventional candles. High-quality waxes like soy or rapeseed wax, as well as natural fragrances, especially essential oils, provide a unique scent experience and a clean burn. With proper care, you can maximize the lifespan and enjoyment of your candles. Choose natural scented candles and transform any room into an oasis of well-being. 

We firmly believe: There is nothing better than relaxing with your favorite scent in a cozy atmosphere!