Fragrance is one of the most beautiful parts of a candle. It can create atmosphere, bring back memories and make a space feel instantly more inviting. But when choosing a scented candle, it is also worth understanding what sits behind the words “fragrance oil”.
For LILELE Studio candles, I choose phthalate-free fragrance oils and use them in accordance with the relevant supplier IFRA guidance. Here is what that actually means – without frightening claims or unrealistic promises.
What are phthalates?
Phthalates are a group of chemical substances used for different purposes in plastics, cosmetics, fragrances and other products. In the European Union, the use of certain phthalates is restricted or regulated depending on the substance and type of product.
It is therefore misleading to treat “phthalates” as one single ingredient or to assume that every phthalate is identical. What matters is which materials are used in a particular product and whether they comply with the relevant requirements.
What does “phthalate-free fragrance” mean?
Simply put, it means that the fragrance oil used in the candle is identified by the supplier as phthalate-free.
It does not mean “chemical-free”, “non-toxic” or “completely safe”. Phthalate-free fragrance oils are still mixtures of aromatic substances and have their own conditions for safe use.
Why do I choose phthalate-free fragrances for LILELE?
Transparent, considered material choices matter to me. When creating a candle, I look not only at how beautiful a fragrance smells but also at the supplier documentation and its intended use in candles.
Using phthalate-free fragrance oils is one of the standards I have chosen for LILELE scented candles. It is a conscious ingredient choice, not a health claim.
What is IFRA and why does it matter?
IFRA, the International Fragrance Association, develops standards for the safe use of fragrance ingredients across different product categories. IFRA documentation can include restrictions on particular substances and maximum fragrance-use levels depending on the type of product.
I select LILELE fragrance oils from suppliers that provide the necessary information and follow the relevant supplier IFRA guidance when developing candle recipes.
Does phthalate-free mean a scented candle is suitable for everyone?
No. A phthalate-free fragrance can still contain fragrance allergens, and a scented candle will not suit everyone. People who are sensitive to fragrance, have allergies or respiratory conditions may experience discomfort from fragranced products regardless of whether the fragrance contains phthalates.
If fragrance irritates you, the more appropriate choice is not to burn a scented candle or to choose an unscented product.
What should you look for when choosing a scented candle?
- Clear information about the wax and wick used.
- Information about the fragrance oil and the maker’s approach to material selection.
- Proper safety and use instructions.
- A maker who avoids unsupported claims such as “100% non-toxic” or “completely safe for your health”.
The LILELE approach to fragrance
For me, a fragrance has to be more than beautiful. It needs to be carefully selected and suitable for candle use. I choose each scent with both its character and supplier documentation in mind, then test it in the finished candle.
The result is a scented candle in which design, wax, wick and fragrance work together as one considered experience.
Discover the LILELE candle fragrances or explore the scented candle collection.
What matters to me is not the loudest label, but thoughtful material choices and honest information about what I use in my candles.
