Can You Use Perfume in Candles? (What You Need to Know Before Trying)

Many beginner candle makers wonder if they can use perfume or cologne instead of fragrance oils in their candles. Since perfumes smell amazing and are readily available, it may seem like an easy way to create custom-scented candles. However, using perfume in candle making comes with significant drawbacks and potential safety hazards. In this guide, we’ll explore whether perfume can be used in candles, why it’s not recommended, and what alternatives work best.

1. Why Perfume Should Not Be Used in Candles

Although perfume and fragrance oils may seem similar, their formulations are completely different. Perfume is designed for skin application, not for burning.

a) High Alcohol Content

• Most perfumes contain alcohol and water, which are highly flammable.

• When exposed to heat, alcohol can ignite suddenly, posing a serious fire hazard.

• Water does not mix well with wax, leading to poor scent diffusion and possible separation.

b) Low Flashpoint (Risk of Fire and Toxic Fumes)

• The flashpoint is the temperature at which a substance can ignite. Many perfumes have a flashpoint below 100°F (38°C), making them unsafe for candle making.

• When burned, perfumes can produce harmful chemicals that were not meant to be inhaled in large amounts.

c) Weak Scent Throw in Wax

• Perfumes are not oil-based, meaning they do not bind well with wax.

• When added to wax, perfume evaporates quickly, leading to a very weak or nonexistent hot throw (scent while burning).

2. What Happens If You Use Perfume in a Candle?

If you attempt to mix perfume with melted wax, you may encounter these issues:

• The perfume may separate from the wax, leading to uneven fragrance distribution.

• It may cause excessive smoking, soot, or wick clogging due to the alcohol and additives in perfume.

• The candle could catch fire unexpectedly, especially if alcohol vapors ignite.

• Poor scent throw, as perfume evaporates quickly at high temperatures.

For these reasons, perfume should never be used in candle making.

3. What Can You Use Instead of Perfume?

If you want a strong, long-lasting scent in your candles, use fragrance oils or essential oils specifically designed for candle making.

a) Fragrance Oils (Best Option for Scent Throw)

• Fragrance oils are formulated to withstand high temperatures and bind well with wax.

• They provide a strong hot and cold throw.

• Available in a wide variety of scents, including designer fragrance dupes.

Best for: All types of candles, including soy, paraffin, and coconut wax candles.

b) Essential Oils (Natural Alternative, but Weaker Throw)

• Essential oils are natural plant extracts, making them a good option for those who prefer a chemical-free alternative.

• However, they have a lower flashpoint and evaporate quickly, leading to a weaker scent throw.

• Some essential oils do not burn well and may produce an unpleasant smell when heated.

Best for: Aromatherapy candles, but they may need to be blended with fragrance oils for better performance.

4. How to Properly Add Fragrance to Candles

For the best scent results, follow these guidelines when adding fragrance oils:

• Use the correct fragrance load: Most waxes can hold 6-12% fragrance oil per weight.

• Add fragrance oil at the right temperature:

  • Soy wax: 175-185°F (70-75°C)

  • Paraffin wax: 185-200°F (85-93°C)

  • Coconut wax: 170-180°F (77-82°C)

• Stir thoroughly for at least 2 minutes to ensure even distribution.

• Cure your candles properly: Let soy candles cure for 1-2 weeks for the best scent throw.

5. Can You Make a Candle Smell Like Your Favorite Perfume?

If you want your candle to smell like a designer perfume, consider using fragrance oils inspired by popular perfumes.

Many suppliers offer perfume-inspired fragrance oils that replicate luxury scents without the dangers of using actual perfume. These are safe for candle making and provide a strong, lasting aroma.

Final Verdict: Stick to Candle-Safe Fragrance Oils

While it may be tempting to use perfume in candles, it is not safe or effective. The alcohol content, low flashpoint, and weak scent retention make it a poor choice for candle making. Instead, use high-quality fragrance oils designed for candles to achieve a strong, consistent scent throw without compromising safety.

In my Candle Making Course, I teach how to choose the best fragrance oils, blend scents effectively, and maximize scent throw for high-quality candles. You’ll also receive a list of trusted suppliers for premium fragrance oils at the best prices.

Want to create beautifully scented, safe candles? Join my Candle-Making Course (click here) and start making professional-quality candles today.

Happy candle making!