How To Read An IFRA

Understanding IFRA certificates is essential for safe and compliant candle making. This guide explains how to read fragrance IFRA documents, interpret usage levels, and apply the correct percentages for candles and wax melts. Learn how IFRA standards protect consumers while helping you create high-quality, beautifully scented products with confidence.

How to Read an IFRA Certificate – Step by Step

Step 1: Understand what IFRA is
IFRA stands for the International Fragrance Association. It is the organisation that sets safety standards for the use of fragrance oils. IFRA certificates tell you the maximum percentage of fragrance oil you can safely use in each type of product.

Step 2: Find your fragrance oil
Visit our website and locate the fragrance oil you are working with. Open the product page and scroll down to the documents section.

Step 3: Download the IFRA certificate
In the documents section, you will find the IFRA certificate for that fragrance. Click to download and open the document.

Step 4: Review the IFRA categories
The IFRA certificate is a two-page document. On the first page, you will see IFRA categories listed from 1 to 12. Each category has a percentage shown on the right-hand side. This percentage indicates the maximum fragrance load allowed.

Step 5: Identify your product category
If you are unsure which category your product falls into, go to the second page of the document. A quick tip is to use Ctrl + F on your keyboard and type in your product type.

• Diffusers fall under Category 10A

• Room sprays fall under Category 10B

• Candles and wax melts fall under Category 12

Step 6: Check the permitted usage level
Once you know your product’s category, return to the first page of the IFRA certificate. Locate the correct category and read across to find the maximum percentage of fragrance oil you can use in your product.

Step 7: Formulate safely
Always ensure your fragrance load stays within the stated IFRA limit to create safe, compliant, and high-quality products.