Getting the scent right is one of the hardest parts of candle making. Use too little fragrance oil and the candle barely smells when it burns. Use too much and the oil can seep out of the wax or burn poorly.
This guide covers how much fragrance oil to use in each wax, when to add it, how long to cure your candles and what to ask a supplier for.
What fragrance load means
Fragrance load is the amount of fragrance oil in a candle, written as a percentage of the wax weight. To work it out, multiply the weight of your wax by the percentage.
For example, at 8% in 1,000 g of wax, you add 80 g of fragrance oil.
Always weigh fragrance oil instead of measuring it by volume. Oils vary in density, so 1 ml of one scent does not weigh the same as 1 ml of another.
How much fragrance oil to use by wax type
Every wax has a maximum fragrance load, published by the wax manufacturer on its data sheet. Check that first, because blends vary. These are the ranges most makers work with:
- Soy wax: usually 6 to 10%, and many makers start at 6 to 8%. Test before you raise the load.
- Paraffin wax: usually 6 to 10%. It is known for a strong hot throw, so the lower end often works well.
- Coconut wax and coconut blends: usually 6 to 10%. It is a soft, creamy wax that tends to release scent well.
Some blends are rated up to 12%, but more oil does not always mean a stronger candle. Start lower and test.
Check the IFRA certificate and flash point
Each fragrance oil also has its own limits.
- IFRA certificate: look for Category 12, which covers candles. It sets the maximum amount of that oil you can use. If it is lower than your wax rating, the IFRA limit wins.
- Flash point: this is listed on the oil's SDS (Safety Data Sheet). It tells you how to handle and store the oil safely while you work.
Ask your supplier for both documents for every oil you plan to use in candles, and keep them on file.
When to add fragrance oil
Temperature matters. If the wax is too cool, the oil will not bind properly. If it is very hot, you can lose some of the scent.
- Melt the wax fully, following the wax manufacturer's guidance.
- Add the fragrance oil at around 85°C (185°F), unless your wax data sheet says otherwise.
- Stir gently for about 2 minutes so the oil binds with the wax.
- Let it cool to the pouring temperature for your wax, then pour.
Never heat fragrance oil on its own or over a direct flame.
How long to cure candles
Curing gives the oil and wax time to bind, which improves the scent when the candle burns.
- Soy wax: 1 to 2 weeks. Many makers wait the full 2 weeks.
- Coconut and coconut blends: around 1 to 2 weeks.
- Paraffin: often ready after 1 to 3 days.
Cure candles at room temperature with lids on, away from direct sunlight. Test-burn one from each batch before you sell.
What to ask a candle fragrance oil supplier
- Documents: an IFRA certificate and SDS for each oil, plus a CoA (Certificate of Analysis) to check batch consistency.
- Candle suitability: ask which oils are suitable for candles before you buy.
- Samples: testing in your own wax and wick is the only reliable way to judge throw.
- Flexible pack sizes: small packs for testing and bulk for production.
Buying fragrance oils from Aroma Labs
Aroma Labs is based in Dubai, UAE, and ships worldwide, including the US. Browse the full range in our catalogue.
- No minimum order on in-stock oils, with packs from 100 ml to 50 kg.
- Oils not in stock are made to order from 5 kg.
- 10 ml samples cost $12, so you can test in your own wax first.
- IFRA, SDS and CoA documents are available on request.
See our pricing page for current rates. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp (+971 58 544 6822) or email ankit@aromalabs.store.
Frequently asked questions
How much fragrance oil should I put in a candle?
Most makers use 6 to 10% of the wax weight. Check your wax's maximum load and the oil's IFRA certificate (Category 12), and use whichever limit is lower.
Can I add more oil for a stronger candle?
Not always. Going past the wax's limit can make oil seep out and the candle burn poorly. The right wick, a proper cure and a good oil usually matter more.
What temperature should I add fragrance oil to wax?
Around 85°C (185°F) is common, but follow your wax manufacturer's guidance.
What documents should a candle fragrance oil supplier provide?
At minimum, an IFRA certificate and an SDS for each oil. A CoA is useful for checking batch consistency.
