Whether you’re burning one to help you sleep or putting it in the bedroom to create a relaxing atmosphere, the right candle scent can make a huge difference. Our sense of smell is directly connected to the hippocampus and amygdala in the brain, which means that certain aromas can transport us back to memories from our past or influence our emotions in real time. It’s why fragrance is used by retailers to seduce consumers with feelings of relaxation or joy—and it’s why you should pay attention to the scent notes that are listed on candles before buying them.
It’s important to note that there are different types of waxes that candles are made out of, and each has its own “personality,” says Liz Drew, a perfumer at Fig & Flower. Soy wax candles are the cleanest and burn slowest while coconut and beeswax candles tend to hold scent longer.
Top notes are the first scents to emerge when you light a candle and are usually more subtle and sweet—think citrus or florals. Middle notes are the heart of a candle and take about ten to twenty minutes to develop while the candle is burning. And finally, the base scent is what will linger in your space after you’ve snuffed out the flame—think deeper and richer notes such as vanilla or cedar.
If you’re feeling a little frazzled, lavender and chamomile scents are known to reduce stress and promote healthy sleep patterns, while uplifting orange and lemon scents can help brighten your mood. If you’re in need of an evening pick-me-up, a few strokes of a candle scented with black currant leaves and rose will have you dreaming about a dinner date or a cozy night reading in your favorite armchair.