Know which kind of fragrance oil you have
Before you use any oil, identify what it is. Suppliers describe several categories:
- Essential oils: natural extracts, typically made by steam distillation or pressing.
- Natural isolates and naturally derived fragrances: components extracted from plants, sometimes using a solvent.
- Synthetic fragrance oils: man-made ingredients, used to create scents that do not occur in nature.
Natural options can have a softer throw, and some change when heated. The most important point is this: fragrance oils are made for specific uses. An oil made for candles may not be intended for skin, and a skin-safe oil may not suit wax. Read the product page and safety data sheet for its intended use and recommended usage rate. Our article on aromatherapy oils vs essential oils explains how product labels can blur these categories.
Using fragrance oils in candles and wax melts
This is the most common use on this site. In short:
- Choose an oil sold for candles.
- Weigh the oil rather than counting drops.
- Add it to melted wax at the temperature your supplier recommends and stir well.
- Pour, then allow the candle to cure before testing.
Details are in our guides on the essential oil to wax ratio and when to add essential oil to soy wax. To create custom scents, see mixing fragrances for candles.
Soap and bath and body
Many suppliers sell separate fragrance oils for soap and personal care, described as skin-safe at stated usage rates. Do not assume a candle oil can be used in soap or lotion. Always check that the product is labelled for that use and stay within its usage rate. For soap-specific blending and usage guidance, see soap scent recipes and combinations, and for scenting a lotion, see homemade lotion with olive oil.
On skin: can you wear fragrance oil as perfume?
Only if the oil is specifically intended for skin. Perfume oils sold for wearing are different from candle fragrance oils. If you do use a skin-safe perfume oil, common tips include:
- Apply to clean, moisturized skin or over unscented lotion.
- Use pulse points such as wrists and neck.
- Let it dry naturally rather than rubbing your wrists together.
Concentrated oils can irritate skin, so patch test first, and do not apply undiluted essential oils unless the label says it is safe. If in doubt, ask a qualified professional.
Around the home
Some people use fragrance oils with diffusers, burners or DIY room sprays. Check the product for suitability, because not all oils are made for diffusers. Pets, children and people with sensitivities or asthma can react to strong scents, so use small amounts, ventilate the room, and keep oils out of reach.
Storing fragrance oils
Store oils in tightly closed containers in a cool, dark place away from sunlight. One supplier suggests properly stored oils keep their quality for up to about two years, though shelf life varies by oil. For more on keeping scent strong, see how to make essential oil fragrance last longer.
Can you pour fragrance oil down the sink?
Check the product’s safety data sheet and your local rules for disposal. Many oils should not be poured down drains in quantity. A sensible approach for leftovers is to use them up, or follow your local household hazardous waste guidance.
The 20/30/50 rule
You may see this phrase used for blending, as a rough split of base, heart and top notes. Sources describe it differently, so treat it as a starting suggestion only. Our guide to mixing fragrances for candles explains the idea in a candle context.
For the bigger picture, see our DIY fragrance oil for candles guide.