Do Candles Lose Their Scent Over Time? What You Need to Know About Fragrance Longevity

Do Candles Lose Their Scent Over Time? What You Need to Know About Fragrance Longevity

You’ve picked a beautifully scented candle, placed it carefully on your shelf—and weeks later, you notice the fragrance is softer, less vibrant, maybe even gone. It’s a common question we hear: Do candles lose their scent over time?

The short answer is yes. But the long answer depends on what the candle is made of, how it's stored, and how often it’s used. At Aurié Luxe Co., we create candles not just for the moment you unbox them, but for the many moments after. Our blends are formulated to retain their richness and depth for longer than conventional candles.

Here’s what causes scent loss, how to prevent it, and why our candles are crafted to go the distance.

 


 

Why Candles Lose Their Scent

1. Evaporation of Fragrance Oils

Fragrance oils, especially top notes, are volatile. Over time, they begin to evaporate—even if the candle remains unlit. Exposure to heat, light, or air can speed this up.

2. Poor Wax Composition

Not all wax holds fragrance equally. Paraffin wax may release its scent faster but also tends to lose it faster. In contrast, coconut-soy wax (like ours) is known for its strong scent throw and long-term retention.

3. Improper Storage

Storing candles near heat, windows, or uncovered in open air will weaken the scent over time. Humidity and direct sunlight are especially damaging.

4. Low-Quality Fragrance Oils

Candles made with low-concentration fragrance or synthetic oils often lose scent within weeks. The quality of the oil matters as much as the wax.

 


 

How Long Should a Candle Hold Its Scent?

Generally, a well-made scented candle retains strong fragrance for 6 to 12 months when stored properly. However, many mass-market candles begin to fade much sooner due to diluted formulas or unstable wax bases.

At Aurié Luxe Co., we’ve designed our candles to hold their perfume longer. We use:

  • High-grade, phthalate-free fragrance oils

  • A high fragrance load (typically 10 percent or more)

  • Coconut-soy wax for excellent retention and even burn

  • Airtight vessels and snug lids to protect the scent

The result? A candle that smells beautiful from first light to the final burn.

 


 

How to Store Candles to Preserve Their Scent

  • Keep them in a cool, dark place. A drawer or cabinet away from sunlight is ideal.

  • Use the lid. Our glass jars come with snug lids to seal in fragrance when not in use.

  • Avoid high humidity. Bathrooms or windowsills may weaken scent over time.

  • Don’t store near heaters. Even indirect heat can release fragrance prematurely.

 


 

Aurié Luxe Co. Candles That Last

Some of our customers tell us our candles smell even better after a few weeks. That’s intentional. Our fragrance blends are layered like fine perfumes, allowing the oils to settle and develop over time.

Here are a few long-lasting favorites:

Chandni Raatien

A romantic jasmine scent that lingers long after the candle is out. Perfect for bedrooms and late-night rituals.

Mystic Oud

Deep, smoky oud layered with spice. One of our boldest, most enduring fragrances.

Tawakkul – Trust in the Divine

Part of our Serenity Collection, this scent features calming herbal and woody notes that gently hold space for weeks.

Karak Chai

Spiced and creamy, this candle continues to smell like comfort—even after months on the shelf.

 


 

Final Thoughts: Fragrance That Stays With You

So, do candles lose their scent over time? Yes—but not all candles fade equally. If crafted with care, stored thoughtfully, and poured with intention, a candle can retain its character for many months, becoming a consistent source of comfort.

At Aurié Luxe Co., we build our candles to last in every way. Fragrance is not just a fleeting moment, but an experience that deepens with time. Explore the Heritage Collection and Serenity Collection to find your scent companion for the seasons ahead.

 

Back to blog