The art of candle making has been around for centuries, and we love it for the warmth and ambiance it can bring to a space. But when it comes to making a candle with a strong scent, many people think adding more scented oil will make it stronger. Unfortunately, this isn't the case, and here's why.
The Maximum Load of Wax
At first glance, it might seem like candles are a simple thing - wax and fragrance, and that's it. But when you take a closer look, it turns out there's a lot more to it than that!
It all started with 3-4% fragrance oil, which was the industry standard for a long time. Then candle makers upped the percentage to 6-8%. But here's the kicker - some will use between 9-12%, which can actually make the candle burn less efficiently and smell less fragrant!
The strength of a candle's scent depends on the type of wax used, as well as the amount of fragrance oil added. Different waxes have different levels of solubility, which is the maximum amount of oil that can be dissolved in the wax. The limit of solubility is known as the "maximum load" of the wax. Adding too much fragrance oil to the wax can cause it to become saturated, which wouldn't be absorbed into the wax and would instead form droplets on top of the candle.
What "Double-Scented" and "Triple-Scented" Actually Mean
It gets even more complicated when you look at the labels. Have you ever seen a candle advertised as "triple scented?" Here's the truth: what they're probably suggesting is their candle has the most amount of fragrance oil that wax can take. Some oils are more concentrated than others, so you don't need as much.
How to Create a Strong-Scented Candle
If you're looking for a strong-scented candle, there are a few things you can do. First, look for candles made with soy wax, coconut, or a blend of both. These waxes are more porous and can hold more fragrance oil than paraffin, meaning you can create a stronger scented candle without exceeding the solubility limit. However, it's important to keep in mind that you don't need to add more fragrance oil to create a strong-smelling candle. The key is to use the right wax and the right amount of fragrance oil.
Conclusion
Adding more scented oil to a candle won't make it stronger. Different waxes have different levels of solubility, and adding too much fragrance oil can cause the wax to become saturated and form droplets on top of the candle. To create a strong-scented candle without adding too much oil, look for candles made with soy wax, coconut, or a blend of both.
We hope this post has helped you understand why adding more scented oil to a candle won't make it stronger. So the next time you're in the candle aisle, remember to look beyond the label and think about the science behind the candle. Happy candle making!
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