According to the National Candle Association (NCA), the major trade association representing U.S. candle manufacturers and their suppliers, the addition of fragrance to candles is common in the U.S., and an estimated 75 to 80 percent of candles sold in the U.S. are scented.

Making Scents
The NCA says that candle manufacturers work closely with fragrance companies to “develop scented formulations that are not only pleasing, but will burn safely and properly.” Properly-formulated scented candles produce water vapor and carbon dioxide when burned, as well as release whatever fragrance has been added, typically a combination of natural and synthetic fragrances that may be derived from essential oils or from synthetic aroma chemicals.

According to the NCA, candle manufacturers have more than 2,000 aroma chemicals and essential oils at their disposal to use to develop scents that are both pleasing to consumers and compatible with candle use (various health and safety tests are also conducted on the raw fragrance materials that are used in candles to ensure their safety).

Well-formulated scented candles burn cleanly and do not produce a significant amount of soot.

Scent Safety
It’s important to remember to burn all candles, scented or otherwise, in well-ventilated areas. In addition, the NCA says every candle formulation has a maximum amount of fragrance that can be added before the candle will no longer burn properly. They also cite reports of homemade and craft-fair candles containing too much fragrance, or fragrances not approved for candle use, which can lead to improper burn performance or excess sooting.

Founded in 1974, NCA acts as the collective voice for the candle industry in promoting the safe use and enjoyment of candles; pursuing product excellence through quality formulation; monitoring and responding to issues impacting the industry; and advancing the industry as a whole. NCA’s member companies account for more than 90 percent of all candles made in the U.S.

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