Scented candles have been around for centuries, but in recent years, they’ve developed a new reputation as a luxury product. Whether you’re looking for a way to unwind after a long day or add some extra ambiance to your home, luxury scented candles are the perfect solution. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about luxury scented candles, from how they’re made to which scents will help you achieve a particular mood.
What Are Luxury Scented Candles?
To fully understand what makes scented candles “luxury”, we need to start with the base material: wax. The majority of scented candles are made from paraffin wax, which is a byproduct of petroleum. While paraffin wax is incredibly cheap, it’s also not the healthiest choice – when burned, paraffin candles release toxic chemicals into the air. Luxury candles, on the other hand, are typically made from soy wax or beeswax, which are much more environmentally-friendly options. Soy wax comes from soybeans, while beeswax is made by bees, making them both natural and non-toxic.
Another factor that sets luxury scented candles apart is their scent. Rather than using synthetic fragrances, which can cause headaches and other unpleasant side effects, luxury candles often use essential oils for their aroma. These oils are derived from plants and are known to have therapeutic properties, making them an excellent choice for home fragrance.
What Makes Luxury Scented Candles More Expensive?
Of course, as with most things luxury, high-quality scented candles come at a higher price point than the average supermarket candle. So what causes the increased cost?
First, as mentioned earlier, the wax used in luxury scented candles is typically soy or beeswax. These materials are more expensive than paraffin wax, which is why many cheaper candles use it as their base.
Second, essential oils are much more costly than synthetic fragrances. Because they’re derived from real plants, essential oils have a more complex and nuanced aroma, but their production process is far more involved.
Finally, many luxury scented candles come in handcrafted or artistically-designed glass or porcelain containers. These are often created by skilled artisans and are more difficult to produce than standard glass or plastic containers.
Which Scents Should You Choose?
The aroma of a candle can have a significant impact on your mood, so choosing the right scent is key. Here are some popular scents and the effects they’re known to produce:
- Lavender – This classic scent is known to be relaxing and calming. It’s an excellent choice for bedrooms or bathrooms, where you want a soothing atmosphere.
- Citrus – Scents like grapefruit, lemon, and orange are zesty and refreshing. They’re perfect for living rooms or dining rooms, where you want a lively and energetic atmosphere.
- Sandalwood – This warm, woodsy scent has a grounding effect and is perfect for creating a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. It’s great for meditation rooms or anywhere you want to encourage mindfulness.
- Vanilla – This gentle, sweet scent has a comforting effect and is ideal for creating a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for entryways or hallways, where you want guests to feel at home.
- Peppermint – This invigorating scent is perfect for waking up your senses. It’s a great choice for home offices or workout spaces.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Candle
To ensure you get the most out of your luxury scented candle, follow these tips:
- Trim the wick regularly: This will prevent the flame from getting too large and consuming the wax too quickly.
- Allow the wax to fully melt: The first time you light your candle, let it burn for a few hours to allow the wax to fully melt and create an even wax pool. This will keep your candle from tunneling, which can waste wax.
- Store your candle properly: Keep candles away from heat sources and out of direct sunlight, which can cause them to soften or warp.
- Repurpose your candle container: Once your candle has burned down, simply clean out the container and repurpose it as a vase, pencil holder, or even a plant pot.
Conclusion
Luxury scented candles are a beautiful and effective way to create a relaxing atmosphere in your home. By investing in candles made from high-quality materials and essential oils, you’ll not only enjoy a more pleasant scent but also reap the therapeutic benefits of fragrant plants. So why not treat yourself to a high-end candle and elevate your home’s ambiance today?