Why Candles "Made with Essential Oils" May Not Be as Safe as You Think

We all love the soothing glow and delightful scents of candles, especially when they claim to be safe and clean. You’ll often see phrases like "Made with Essential Oils", "Natural" or “Clean & Safe”. But before you light up that seemingly clean label, let's take a closer look at what it really means!

Discover why these claims may not live up to expectations and uncover the reality of synthetic petrochemicals lurking behind the label. Learn about the importance of ingredient transparency and find a clean alternative!

Misleading Claim: 1% Essential Oils, 99% Synthetic Petrochemicals

Here's the truth: when candles boast of being "Made with Essential Oils," they might not be as pure as they sound. In many cases, these candles contain only a tiny 1% of genuine essential oils, while a whopping 99% is made up of synthetic petrochemicals.

Now, what are these synthetic petrochemicals, you ask? Well, they are artificially produced substances derived from petroleum, a non-renewable fossil fuel. While they can mimic the aroma of essential oils, they lack the natural goodness and therapeutic benefits that come from real plant extracts. Not to mention, they might not be the best for your health or the environment.

Misleading Claim: Natural

The term "Natural" on a candle label suggests that the product is derived from natural sources and free from artificial additives. However, the candle industry is not strictly regulated, allowing manufacturers to use this label without adhering to clear standards.

In some cases, candles labeled as "Natural" may still contain synthetic fragrances and harmful chemicals. Without transparent labeling and third-party certifications, it's challenging for consumers to determine the true naturalness of a product.

Misleading Claim: Clean & Safe

Candles that are "Clean & Safe" is another claim that appeals to health-conscious consumers. However, similar to the "Natural" claim, this statement lacks a standardized definition and can be used loosely by companies.

To ensure a candle is genuinely clean and safe, look for products with clear ingredient lists and third-party certifications. These certifications ensure that the candles are made from non-toxic, eco-friendly materials, free from harmful chemicals and additives.

Why Companies Make This Claim

You might wonder why companies opt for such misleading claims. The answer lies in cost-cutting and mass production. Genuine essential oils and pure plant-based fragrance are expensive, and using a minuscule amount of them alongside cheaper synthetic petrochemicals allows companies to create candles at a lower cost. Unfortunately, this often means compromising on quality and the true essence of natural aromas.

The Clear Difference: "Made with Essential Oils" vs. "100% Plant-Based"

At first glance, they might seem similar, but there's actually a world of difference between the two. In a nutshell, the main difference lies in transparency and authenticity:

1. "Made with Essential Oils": This claim often involves a mere 1% essential oils combined with synthetic petrochemicals. It might smell nice, but it lacks the true goodness and therapeutic benefits of genuine plant extracts.
2. "100% Plant-Based": This label is the real deal, assuring you that all the aromatic elements come from natural plants, with no room for synthetic additives. Certified through USDA bio-based testing, it guarantees the authenticity of the claim.

What You Can Do to Find Truly Natural Candles

Now that you're aware of the potential pitfalls in choosing candles, here are some tips to help you find genuinely natural and safe options:

1. Read the ingredient list carefully: Look for candles that proudly disclose their ingredients, including the sources of fragrances and any additives used. Avoid products with vague descriptions like "fragrance" or "parfum," as these often hide synthetic chemicals.

2. Seek third-party certifications: Look for candles with reputable third-party certifications like USDA Bio-Based or Made Safe. These certifications ensure that the product meets stringent standards of naturalness and safety.

3. Support transparent and ethical brands: Research the brands you're interested in and choose those that prioritize honesty, sustainability, and consumer safety. Brands that are open about their sourcing and manufacturing processes are more likely to provide genuinely natural candles.

The Alternative: 100% Plant-Based Candles Certified Through USDA Bio-Based Testing

Before you feel disheartened, there's a delightful alternative – 100% Plant-Based Candles. When a candle is genuinely labeled "100% Plant-Based," it means every ingredient comes solely from real plants and nothing else. It's the real deal, no hidden tricks!

But how can you be sure? Well, the "100% Plant-Based" claim can be backed up by certifications obtained through USDA bio-based testing. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) rigorously tests products to ensure they are derived entirely from plants, leaving no room for doubts about authenticity.

Why Ingredient Transparency Matters

Ingredient transparency is vital when it comes to choosing a clean candle. Otherwise, how do you know their claims are true? When you're bringing something into your home, you deserve to know exactly what goes into it. Ingredient transparency empowers you to make informed decisions about the products you bring into your home and around your loved ones.

Verifying Clean Candles

At Grow Fragrance, we take pride in being transparent about our ingredients. When you explore our candles, you'll find a detailed list of every single ingredient, including the fragrances we use. We believe in the power of genuine plant-based ingredients and their ability to create delightful scents without compromising your health or the environment.

Make the Conscious Choice for Authenticity

When it comes to filling your living space with your favorite fragrances, choose authenticity. Opting for "100% Plant-Based" candles ensures you get the pure goodness of real plant extracts without any hidden surprises. Embrace a greener and healthier option for yourself and the environment.

At Grow Fragrance, we take pride in offering genuinely "100% Plant-Based" candles, certified through USDA bio-based testing. So, light up your space with the natural beauty of authentic essential oils and enjoy the true essence of plant-based fragrances!

Remember, the key to making an informed choice is knowing the difference between claims and being able to verify with ingredient lists! So, the next time you reach for a scented candle, make sure it's "100% Plant-Based" and let the genuine goodness of nature brighten up your life!

Shop Clean Candles Here: Grow Fragrance Candle Collection