Why Wax Melts Don’t Evaporate: The Science Behind Your Long-Lasting Home Fragrance

Wax melts have gained popularity as a stylish and practical way to fragrance a home, offering a flameless alternative to traditional candles. However, one question often arises: Why don’t wax melts evaporate or disappear over time like candle wax?

The answer lies in how wax and fragrance interact with heat. Let’s explore the science behind it.

How Wax Melts Work

Wax melts are made from a blend of wax and fragrance oils. Unlike candles, which rely on a burning wick to create combustion, wax melts are gently warmed by a tea light or an electric melter. This allows the fragrance oils to diffuse into the air, providing a rich, ambient scent without producing smoke or soot.

Crucially, because wax melts don’t have a flame, the wax itself does not burn away. Instead, only the fragrance oil inside the wax is released. Over time, as the fragrance disperses, the wax remains, but it no longer emits scent.

Do Wax Melts Evaporate?

Evaporation occurs when a liquid turns into a vapour due to heat. While fragrance oils evaporate as they warm, wax does not. This is because wax has a much higher molecular weight and melting point compared to liquids like water or alcohol. Under normal warming conditions, the wax will simply liquefy, then solidify again when cooled, rather than disappearing into the air.

What Happens When the Scent Fades?

Once all the fragrance oils have been released, the wax is left behind with no aroma. At this stage, it’s time to replace your wax melt to continue enjoying fresh fragrance.

How to Maximise Your Wax Melt Experience:

• Use a high-quality wax warmer to ensure an even, consistent fragrance release.
• Avoid excessive heat, which can cause fragrance oils to burn off too quickly.
• Replace wax when the scent fades to maintain a continuous fragrance experience.

The Original Candle Company’s Approach to Long-Lasting Wax Melts

At The Original Candle Company, we take pride in our bespoke soy-paraffin wax blends, designed to maximise scent throw and longevity. Our carefully formulated blends ensure a smooth melt, releasing fragrance steadily without burning or evaporation—delivering a truly indulgent experience every time. You can view our range of wax melts here.