What Candles Smell Like Aftershave?
Scented candles have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. The global scented candle market is expected to reach $5.52 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2019 to 2025 (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/scented-candles-market-set-soar-133000676.html). This growth is fueled by increasing consumer preference for mood-enhancing products and the use of candles to create an ambient environment. Scented candles are now commonplace in many homes and are also given as gifts.
Aftershave-scented candles provide a novel way for consumers to enjoy a popular men’s fragrance profile in candle form. As the scented candle market continues to grow, there is an opportunity for candle makers to expand into more unique scent categories like aftershave. Aftershave candles allow consumers to recreate the classic barbershop experience through scent. This article explores the popular aftershave scents available as candles and how they can be incorporated into home décor or given as gifts.
History of Aftershaves
Aftershaves have been around for centuries, originating as antiseptic toners used to cleanse and refresh the face after shaving with a straight razor. Back in the 1700s and 1800s, shaving was a dangerous endeavor that often left nicks and cuts on the face. To prevent infection, men would apply alcohol-based tonics that contained antiseptic herbs, spices, and citrus oils.
These early “aftershave” tonics served a medicinal purpose more than a cosmetic one. Popular ingredients included lavender, mint, rosemary, thyme, lemon, and cloves. The alcohol base helped disinfect cuts, while the essential oils soothed and restored moisture. As safety razors became prevalent in the early 1900s, the need for antiseptic toners decreased. Aftershaves transitioned into more of a cosmetic product, formulated to refresh, moisturize, and scent the skin after shaving.
Popular Aftershave Scents
Aftershave scents have evolved over the years from classic aromas like lavender and sandalwood to more modern scents featuring notes of tobacco, ginger and pine. Some of the most popular classic men’s aftershave scents include:
- Lavender – Known for its fresh, floral and soothing scent, lavender is a quintessential aftershave ingredient.
- Sandalwood – With its rich, woody aroma, sandalwood adds a masculine touch to aftershaves.
- Citrus – Aftershaves with crisp citrus scents like lemon, orange and grapefruit provide an invigorating sensory experience.
Modern aftershave fragrances tend to have more complex, interesting blends such as:
- Tobacco – Earthy tobacco notes lend a sophisticated edge to contemporary aftershaves.
- Ginger – The spicy kick of ginger makes for an energetic modern aftershave.
- Pine – Blending refreshing pine with other notes like citrus or herbs makes for a lively, woodsy scent.
Whether your preference veers classic or modern, there’s an aftershave scent to suit every taste. Aftershave candle makers can replicate these popular fragrances so you can enjoy your favorite aftershave aromas anytime.
Making Aftershave Candles
When making candles designed to have an aftershave scent, there are a few key steps to focus on:
Wax and Wick Selection
The wax is essential for getting a strong scent throw from your candle. Soy wax or beeswax work well as they readily absorb fragrance oils. The wick size should match the diameter of your container to prevent issues like tunneling. A good wick will burn slowly and evenly to maximize scent dispersal.
According to https://www.savvyhomemade.com/how-to-make-scented-candles-diy/, “There is no limit to the amount of different oils you can use, providing your overall oil count is no more than 10% of the weight of your wax.” This allows flexibility in creating custom aftershave scents.
Essential Oil Mixes for Aftershave Scents
The key to mimicking popular aftershave fragrances is experimenting with different essential oil blends. For a classic barbershop scent, combine oils like bergamot, lemon, lime, black pepper and oakmoss. For a modern aftershave, try mixing sage, cardamom and musk oils. A few drops of each oil in various combinations can produce the desired masculine aromas.
According to https://www.bhg.com/decorating/do-it-yourself/how-to-make-candles/, “add 10-20 drops of essential oils to the mixture” once the wax is melted to scent your candles. Continue tweaking the oil blends until you achieve the perfect aftershave fragrance.
Top Aftershave Candle Brands
There are a few major brands that stand out when it comes to high quality aftershave candles. Here are some of the top options to consider:
Yankee Candle – This brand is one of the most well-known for scented candles overall. They have a wide selection of masculine aftershave scents like Bergamot & Sandalwood, MidSummer’s Night, and Manchester. Yankee candles burn clean and have excellent scent throw.
Bath & Body Works – Another huge name in scented candles. Bath & Body Works offers many “shave shop” themed candles that smell just like popular men’s aftershaves. Some top picks are Mahogany Teakwood, Freshwater, and Noir. Their candles come in various sizes with beautiful packaging.
Other noteworthy brands for aftershave candles include WoodWick, Village Candle, Homesick, Gold Canyon, and boutique shops on Etsy. All make quality aftershave scented candles with excellent scent profiles and performance.
Aftershave Candle Scents for Men
When it comes to candle scents, men often prefer more masculine aromas that evoke a classic barbershop visit. Some of the most popular aftershave candle scents for men include:
Tobacco – The rich, earthy aroma of tobacco is a staple in many men’s fragrances. Tobacco-scented candles have an authentic pipe tobacco scent that is smooth and slightly sweet.
Leather – Leather aftershave candles conjure up memories of a well-worn bomber jacket or luxury car interior. These candles feature rugged leather notes blended with spices and woods.
Oakmoss and Vetiver – For men who enjoy green, outdoorsy scents, oakmoss and vetiver are excellent choices. They have an earthy, woodsy aroma perfect for masculine spaces.
Sandalwood and Cedar – The warm, woody scents of sandalwood and cedar give candles a refined yet rugged aroma. These candles pair well with hints of spice.
Peppermint and Eucalyptus – For an invigorating candle scent, the cooling aromas of peppermint and eucalyptus are ideal. They provide a brisk, energizing sensation.
Testing out different aftershave candle scents can help men find their ideal aroma profile. Many men enjoy candles layered with multiple notes like tobacco and leather or sandalwood mixed with peppers and cloves. Finding the right balance of sweet and spicy is key.
Aftershave Candle Scents for Women
Many women enjoy candles with feminine scents like florals, fruits, and vanilla. These scents evoke a sense of relaxation, self-care, and indulgence. Popular floral scents for women’s candles include rose, jasmine, lavender, lilac, and honeysuckle. Fruity scents like peach, berries, citrus, and tropical fruits like coconut and mango are also commonly used in women’s candles. Warm, sweet scents like vanilla, caramel, and vanilla bean create a soothing ambiance. Here are some examples of popular aftershave candle scents marketed towards women:
Tahitian Vanilla – A rich, sweet vanilla scent blended with notes of rum and tropical fruits (Manly Indulgence Candles: Manly Indulgence Scented Candles).
Peony Petals – A fresh floral bouquet of peony blossoms, jasmine, and lily of the valley (Fragrance Oils – Lone Star Candle Supply).
Coconut Bloom – Tropical coconut milk blended with hibiscus, orchid, and melon (Boheme Fragrances – Luxury Scented Soy Candles).
Women seeking a feminine, indulgent experience will enjoy these floral, fruity, and sweet aftershave candle options.
Aftershave Candle Gift Ideas
Aftershave candles make great gifts for the special men in your life. Here are some ideas for gifting these manly scented candles:
Father’s Day – What better gift for dad on Father’s Day than an aftershave scented candle that reminds him of his favorite cologne or shaving cream? Choose a scent like sandalwood, musk, or spices to gift pop on his special day.
Birthdays – Birthdays are the perfect time to give the gift of scent with an aftershave candle in his favorite fragrance. Opt for something fresh and crisp or rugged and woodsy depending on his personality. He’ll love seeing the flickering light and smelling the familiar masculine aroma.
Some other occasions where aftershave candles make memorable presents include groomsmen gifts, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, retirement parties, and more. Customize the container with a special message or monogram for an extra thoughtful touch.
Gifting an aftershave scented candle is a unique way to show your appreciation for all the wonderful men in your life. The familiar scents will remind them of you each time they light up.
Safety Tips When Using Aftershave Candles
When burning any candle, it’s important to follow basic safety precautions to prevent fires and injuries. Here are some key tips to keep in mind when using aftershave candles:
Trim the wick to 1⁄4 inch before lighting. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning and smoking. Trim the wick before each use to remove any mushrooming on the tip.[1]
Place candles away from flammables. Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can catch fire like curtains, furniture, bedding and decorations. Never put candles near exits or walkways where they could get knocked over.[2]
Use proper candle holders. Place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Only use candle holders intended for the specific type and size of candle. Containers like mugs and bowls can get too hot.[1]
Don’t burn candles unattended. Never leave a burning candle alone. Extinguish candles before going to sleep or leaving a room. Use a snuffer or wet fingers to avoid getting burned blowing them out.
Avoid burning multiple candles close together. To reduce heat buildup, allow at least 4 inches between burning candles. Don’t place them in a drafty area where they can flare up or tip over easily.
Conclusion
Aftershave candles allow you to fill your home with the classic scents of beloved men’s grooming products. Top aftershave scents like barbershop, tobacco, woodsy colognes, and spice blends can be found in candle form to infuse any room with a masculine ambiance. Women also enjoy aftershave-inspired candles in feminine takes on those scents like florals, fruits, and lighter colognes. Aftershave candles make great gifts for men or anyone who wants to recreate that just-shaved fresh feeling. They provide a soothing environment and nostalgic aroma. With proper safety precautions like keeping away from flammables and not leaving them unattended, aftershave candles can create the perfect manly mood. So go ahead and light one up to relax and remind yourself of a close shave.
