The percentage of fragrance used in candles vary drastically depending on preference, type of fragrance used and the type of wax being used. Additionally, fragrance percentage used in candles is dependent on the manufacturer's objective to diffuse high dosage of aroma or low dosage of aroma. As a general guideline, the fragrance load in a candle is typically around 6% to 8% of the total weight of the wax. Thompson Ferrier candles average between 16% to 18% essential oils. Although this high dosage of essential oils is beyond the industry average, it is the intention of Thompson Ferrier to deliver powerful and strong aromas.Due to the high dosage of essential oils in all Thompson Ferrier candles, please refer to your candle care section of our blog for proper burn of our candles. Improper candle care with high dosage of essential oils can cause burn of the candle that might not be ideal.Here's a breakdown of the general range for different types of candles:
  1. Paraffin Wax Candles: For candles made with paraffin wax, a fragrance load of around 6% to 8% is commonly used. This means that if you have 1 pound (450 grams) of paraffin wax, you would typically add between 0.96 ounces (27 grams) and 1.6 ounces (45 grams) of fragrance oil. Although this is the industry average, Thompson Ferrier candles fragrance load is much higher in the range of 16% to 18%.
  2. Soy Wax Candles: Soy wax can hold a higher fragrance load compared to paraffin wax and will not diffuse as efficiently as Paraffin wax. Typically, a fragrance load of around 8% to 10% is used for soy wax candles. So, for 1 pound (450 grams) of soy wax, you would generally add between 0.96 ounces (27 grams) and 1.92 ounces (54 grams) of fragrance oil.
  3. Beeswax Candles: Beeswax has a natural, pleasant scent of its own, so the fragrance load requirement is somewhat vague and diluted as the true aromas of the essential oils are delivered differently than the intended fragrance. Many candle makers will reduce the essential oil usage when using beeswax as beeswax generally interferes with the fragrance bouquet. A fragrance load of around 4% to 6% is commonly used for beeswax candles. For 1 pound (450 grams) of beeswax, you would typically add between 0.48 ounces (14 grams) and 0.96 ounces (27 grams) of fragrance oil.
Remember that these percentages are general guidelines. Thompson Ferrier intentionally infuses very high dosage of essential oils. The identity of Thompson Ferrier is in its candle design and powerful fragrance loads.