"I heard more oil causes headaches".

Ever had that awkward moment when you're blissfully enjoying a scented candle or wax melt, only for someone to complain it's giving them a headache? 

We've all been there, haven't we? It's the Marmite of the fragrance world – some love it, others hate it. But what smells heavenly to one person can be headache-inducing to another. And it's not always about the amount of fragrance oil – even a tiny amount can trigger a reaction if it contains a pesky ingredient your nose doesn't like.

Or maybe you're the one who experiences the headaches and sneezing fits? Fragrance sensitivities are surprisingly common, and understanding the science behind them can be a game-changer.

So, what's a scent lover (or a scent-sensitive soul) to do? Don't worry, I'm here to help you navigate the fragrant maze! Keep reading to unravel the mystery behind scent sensitivities

 

It's Not the Wax, It's the Chemistry (and Your Unique Nose!)

Let's clear the air: fragrance sensitivities are not caused by the wax itself, but rather by specific aroma chemicals present in the fragrance oils. These chemicals, both natural and synthetic, are what give each scent its unique character. However, for some individuals, these same chemicals can sometimes trigger a reaction.

 

Here's a deeper look at some of the most common aroma chemicals known to trigger sensitivities:

 

Citral: This sharp, citrusy compound is found in lemon, lemongrass, and other citrus scents.

Limonene: Another citrusy character, limonene is responsible for the zesty, refreshing aroma of oranges, limes, and grapefruits.

Linalool: A key component in many floral and herbal fragrances, linalool gives scents like lavender and bergamot their characteristic aroma. It's important to note that linalool is naturally occurring in many oils, making it a common trigger for sensitivities.

Geraniol: This sweet, floral compound is found in roses, geraniums, and other floral scents.

Eugenol: This warm, spicy compound is responsible for the aroma of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Benzaldehyde: This almond-like aroma chemical is a common ingredient in many perfumes and scented products.

 

Concentration doesn't dictate reaction, but chemical composition does!

I take pride in creating intensely rich wax melts, using three times more fragrance oil than other brands. This means you get a longer-lasting, more powerful scent throw, perfect for filling larger spaces or for those who simply love a strong fragrance. However, it's crucial to understand that the concentration of fragrance oil doesn't change the chemical composition of the scent itself.

 

It's like for example thinking a triple shot of espresso will make you more jittery than a single shot if you're sensitive to caffeine – the amount doesn't matter if you're already sensitive to the ingredient. The same goes for other sensitivities, such as those to milk, gluten, or even penicillin. Even a tiny amount of the allergen could cause a reaction.

 

It's important to remember that if you're sensitive to a specific aroma chemical, it could trigger a reaction at ANY concentration, even in small amounts.

 

Imagine two wax melts, one with 8% fragrance load and another with 30%. If both use the same exact fragrance oil containing limonene, for example, both melts will contain limonene.

 

It's also worth noting that sensitisers can be found in up to 90% of oils. This means that even "natural" products can trigger reactions in some individuals.

Yes, strong scents can be overpowering, but bear in mind that individual sensitivities to fragrance vary greatly. It's like perfume – even a beautiful fragrance can cause a headache if overused. If you experienced a headache with one wax melt but not others, it could simply be a matter of personal preference or the specific fragrance.

 

This doesn't mean there's anything wrong with me using 3 times the amount of oil in my blend; it's just a reminder that fragrance strength is a personal preference, and the chemical compounds in the oil. 

Empower yourself: CLP information is your best friend

All Dayas Essence products come with detailed CLP (Classification, Labelling, and Packaging) information, which lists all the ingredients, including any potential allergens. If you have known sensitivities, be sure to check the CLP information before purchasing a new scent. This information isn't unique to wax melts; you'll find similar ingredient lists on perfumes, lotions, and even cleaning products.

 

Your safety and enjoyment is my top priority. I carefully select high-quality fragrance oils and strive to use the least possible sensitisers. While some scents may contain a small number of these potential triggers, it's often necessary to create the desired aroma. Remember, every fragrance oil is unique. It's all about finding what works for your nose! 

If you're trying Dayas Essence scents for the first time, I recommend starting with a smaller piece to test your tolerance. You can always cut the wax melt into your preferred size, just like you would with any other scented product. After all, finding the perfect scent is often a matter of trial and error!