Essential Oils in candles: The truth about natural vs synthetic

We get it—“natural” sounds better. Who doesn’t want to feel like they’re living in harmony with Mother Earth while burning a beautiful candle?

But let’s burst that bubble real quick: natural doesn’t always mean safe.

There’s a huge misconception that essential oils are automatically better than synthetic fragrances, but the truth is a little more complex. Sure, essential oils are wonderful—they smell amazing and can have therapeutic properties when used correctly.

But in candles? That’s a different story.

You wouldn’t sprinkle arsenic on your breakfast just because it’s natural, right? (Please say no.) The same logic applies here: just because essential oils are “natural” doesn’t mean they belong in every candle.

Many essential oils can cause allergic reactions, and when burned, some can even combust. Not exactly the spa-like experience you were hoping for.

Think synthetic fragrances are evil? Without them, we wouldn’t have classics like Chanel No. 5. Synthetics are often created to be safer and more consistent than their natural counterparts. In fact, many synthetic fragrances are specifically designed to remove allergens and irritants, making them a better choice for sensitive noses.

At No Common Scents, we use a carefully balanced blend of synthetic and natural fragrances. Why? Because we’re not about gimmicks. We’re about giving you a safe, luxurious experience with every candle.

Remember, not everything that’s “natural” is safe. Do your research, and don’t be fooled by fancy labels or trends.