Let's be real, the UK wax melt scene can be brutal, especially when you're trying to stand out. I'm not afraid to be different, and my 30% fragrance-loaded melts are proof of that. But yeah, they've definitely ruffled a few feathers.
That's why I decided to turn those critical comments into educational content. You may have seen my "Misconceptions" blog, where I tackle the most common questions head-on.
And trust me, there's one question that keeps coming up time and time again:
I'm all about playing by the rules. Not just because it's the right thing to do, but because I want to create wax melts that are safe, worry-free, and, most importantly, amazing.
But that doesn't mean we have to be confined by outdated myths.
Understanding Fragrance Load Limits
The Role of Wax
Let's start with the basics. Every wax has its own unique fragrance-holding capacity, like a little reservoir for scent. The "10% rule" is simply a guideline for that wax, a starting point for how much fragrance it can handle without needing any extra help. And conveniently, CLP data for 10% and below is usually free because it aligns with the wax's natural abilities.
The Art and Science of Fragrance
So, what about exceeding that 10% limit?
Well, it's definitely possible and perfectly legal, as long as it's done right. It's a bit like alchemy, blending art and science to create something truly unique. It requires understanding the wax and its limitations, then using specific techniques and ingredients to push those boundaries safely.
IFRA Guidelines
Now, let's talk about IFRA, the International Fragrance Association. They're the fragrance gurus, setting the standards for how much fragrance oil a maker can use in everything from cosmetics to candles.
Each fragrance oil comes with an IFRA Certificate, the roadmap for using that particular fragrance oil. It tells the maker exactly how much they can safely use in different products. Some oils might be limited to 8%, while others can go up to a whopping 100% in candles and wax melts, all depending on the wax's holding capacity.
Just because a maker can use a ton of fragrance doesn't always mean they should. It's about finding that perfect balance, where the scent is strong and captivating without being overwhelming.
CLP: Your Safety Net
Before a new fragrance oil even gets a foot in the door, it goes through rigorous testing. The CLP gets recalculated from the 100% safety data sheet to reflect my 30% fragrance load. I also look at the IFRA (International Fragrance Association) document to confirm the maximum safe usage level for each oil.
Why? Because I'm passionate about doing things right and prioritising safety above all else - no cutting corners.
The "chesty man" pictogram on CLP labels? That's a big no-no for me. It signals potential respiratory problems, and I'm all about keeping those lungs happy and healthy. I steer clear of oils that could trigger toxicity when inhaled, harm reproduction, affect unborn babies, or even have the slightest link to cancer.
My customer's well-being is always at the forefront of everything I do.
My 30% Fragrance Formula: Safety and Legality
Now, I've spent countless hours (2 years to be exact) and an absolute fortune, into perfecting my signature 30% fragrance-loaded formula. It's a recipe that's near and dear to me, so I'm keeping it close to the chest. But rest assured, all my melts are completely legal and compliant. Wax itself isn't required on a CLP due to being non-hazardous, but I've got a whole blog post detailing the importance of CLP if you're curious to learn more: CLP blog post.
Exceeding the 10% fragrance limit is absolutely possible, as long as the maker respects the wax, and know what they're doing, and follow the IFRA guidelines, and have the proper CLP data calculated.
The bottom line
It's about pushing boundaries while keeping things safe and ensuring creations are nothing short of extraordinary.
