essential oils vs. fragrance oils

Fragrance Oils vs. Essential Oils: What’s the Difference (and Which Should You Use)?

If you’ve ever picked up a handmade soap or a jar of bath salts and wondered whether the scent came from essential oils or fragrance oils, you’re not alone. Both are commonly used in natural skincare products, and both bring something special to the table. Let’s break down what they are, how they’re different, and why you might see one—or both—on the label of your favorite lotion, soap, or soak.

Essential oils are plant-based powerhouses. They’re extracted from leaves, flowers, bark, roots, or peels, often through steam distillation or cold pressing. Think lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus—pure, concentrated oils straight from nature. Because they’re natural, essential oils are a popular choice for people seeking more plant-forward skincare. They also carry the therapeutic benefits of the plants they come from, like calming lavender or energizing citrus, which can be a big plus in self-care products.

Fragrance oils, on the other hand, are either fully synthetic or a blend of natural and synthetic ingredients. This might sound less appealing at first, but hear us out: fragrance oils offer a much wider variety of scents, from ocean breeze to birthday cake, and can often be more stable in products. They also don’t come with the same sensitivity risks that some essential oils do, making them a gentler option for certain skin types—especially in products like lotions that stay on the skin.

When it comes to soap, both types of oils can shine. Essential oils offer a subtle, natural aroma and a more “earthy” scent experience, while fragrance oils can create longer-lasting, more dramatic scents that hold up well through the soapmaking process. Some essential oils—especially citrus—can fade or change in cold process soap, whereas fragrance oils tend to stick around more predictably.

In lotions, where scent lingers on your skin, fragrance oils are often the go-to for consistent, long-lasting aroma without overpowering delicate formulas. But essential oils have their place too, especially when someone’s looking for more skin benefits, like tea tree for clarity or chamomile for soothing sensitive skin.

And in bath salts, it’s really about the vibe you’re going for. Essential oils add therapeutic benefits and keep things feeling natural and minimal, while fragrance oils let you customize scents in more creative, fun, or luxurious ways.

So, which is better? The truth is—they both have their perks. Essential oils bring nature and benefits; fragrance oils bring variety and stability. Whether you lean more earthy or expressive, knowing the difference helps you choose the right product for your needs and preferences. At the end of the day, it’s all about what makes your skincare feel just right.