Are Essential Oil Candles Safe? What You Need to Know.
- Dave Shillingford
- Jan 24
- 3 min read
Are Essential Oil Candles Safe? What You Need to Know.
Essential oil candles have become a go-to for people seeking a more natural way to create calm, lift their mood, or scent their space, but are they actually safe?
The short answer? Yes, when made properly.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes essential oil candles safe, how they compare to synthetic fragrance candles, and why ingredients like beeswax and crystal infusions matter for your wellbeing.
What Are Essential Oil Candles?
Unlike traditional candles that use synthetic fragrance oils, essential oil candles are scented using naturally extracted plant oils, think lavender, clary sage, neroli, eucalyptus, and citrus oils. These oils carry therapeutic properties, offering gentle support for mood, stress, and energy levels.
When blended correctly with the right wax (like beeswax and wooden wicks), essential oils provide a more mindful, non-toxic alternative to mainstream scented candles.
Are Essential Oil Candles Safe to Burn at Home?
Yes, when crafted with care. Essential oil candles are considered safe as long as:
They are made with pure, undiluted essential oils
The wax base is clean-burning (like beeswax, soy, or coconut wax)
No synthetic additives or stabilisers are used
The wick is natural (such as wooden or cotton wicks, untreated)
Because essential oils are volatile and naturally derived, they don’t carry the same respiratory risks or chemical load as synthetic fragrance blends. But poorly made candles that claim to use essential oils may still include fillers or paraffin blends, so ingredient transparency matters.
Essential Oils vs. Synthetic Fragrances: What’s the Difference?
Synthetic fragrance oils often contain phthalates, petroleum by-products, and undisclosed chemical blends that can trigger headaches, allergies, or hormone disruption.
Essential oils, on the other hand, are plant-based and used in aromatherapy for their wellness benefits. While not everyone will react to fragrance oils, essential oils offer a gentler, more transparent option, especially when paired with non-toxic wax.
Why Wax Matters: Beeswax vs. Paraffin.
Even the purest essential oil can be compromised by a toxic wax base.
Paraffin wax, a petroleum by-product, releases soot and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) when burned. Over time, these can build up in indoor air.
Beeswax, however, burns cleanly and even releases negative ions, which can bind to airborne toxins and neutralise them. It also has a subtle natural honey scent that pairs beautifully with essential oils.
How to Tell if an Essential Oil Candle Is Truly Safe.
Here’s what to look for:
100% essential oils only (no “fragrance” or “parfum” on the label)
Natural wax like beeswax or soy
No paraffin or petroleum-derived ingredients
Wooden or cotton wick (unbleached, lead-free)
Clear labelling with transparent sourcing
Bonus: Look for brands that also use crystal infusions or hand-pour their candles in small batches, this usually signals more care and quality.
Why We Use Essential Oils at Lily-Rose Candles Co.
At Lily-Rose Candles Co., we believe your candle should nurture your energy, not cloud your space.
That’s why we only use:
100% BP-grade beeswax
Pure essential oils like Neroli, Clary Sage, Lavender, and Eucalyptus
Eco-conscious packaging
Crystal infusions to support emotional and energetic wellness
We never use paraffin, synthetic fragrance, or additives, just nature, intention, and care in every pour.
Final Thoughts: Are Essential Oil Candles Worth It?
If you’re seeking a candle that does more than just smell nice, essential oil candles are absolutely worth it, as long as they’re made mindfully.
They offer a beautiful, natural way to enhance your space, support emotional balance, and enjoy aromatherapy benefits without the synthetic load. And when combined with clean-burning wax like beeswax, they become one of the safest options for both your body and your home.
