Fall Candles that Don't Cause Headaches
I love to light candles year-round, but there’s nothing like a cozy night in with candles lit once the days start to get shorter (and colder). I would light a candle every day if I could, but I’ve had to get really picky about what candles I bring into my home because I suffer from chronic migraines, which make me extra-sensitive to scent and harsh fragrances. I do find that using a candle warmer makes a big difference, because you can control the strength of the fragrance through how “bright” (or warm) you set the warmer light. My candle warmer has been one of the best $30 purchases I’ve ever made, but I still do like the vibe of an open flame, too. Below I’ve rounded up my favorite fall-inspired candles that don’t give me headaches, whether I use the warmer or burn the wick.
fall candles that don’t cause headaches
capri blue pumpkin dolce
The best pumpkin candle on the market; it’s warm and cozy without being too sweet or artificial. Capri Blue candles are known to be strong, so I like them best for larger rooms (like the living room), or I’ll use my candle warmer to control the intensity. The vessel is also gorgeous, and I like that the brand will make limited edition versions every year - perfect for a hostess gift.
boy smells red hot
An elevated spin on a spicy candle, Red Hot is grown-up, sophisticated, and the perfect balance of smoky and fruity. Previously known as Slow Burn, this candle was released in collaboration with Kacey Musgraves before Boy Smells rebranded, and I’m so glad they kept this scent. It’s not too heavy even though it has quite a few notes, and is one of the few candles with an incense note that I can burn for hours without getting a headache. My boyfriend also loves this candle; it’s perfect for a cozy date night in. If you’re not a pumpkin spice person but also don’t like candles that are really sweet or smoky, I recommend trying this one out - everyone seems to love it whenever I burn it.
volsupa bourbon vanille
Voluspa is another go-to brand for candles; I find that their fruity and floral candles give me headaches, but their vanilla candles are perfectly fragrant without being too overpowering. Free of phthalates, pesticides, parabens, and sulfates, their candles are made from coconut wax and have 100% natural wicks. I prefer Bourbon Vanille over Santal Vanille, which is sweeter and slightly more summery, but both are some of the best vanilla candles. They’re elevated, warm without being sweet, and smell like vanilla - not overly sweet frosting or anything artificial.
diptque violette
I love Diptyque’s Violette candle for when you want something cozy and autumnal without being too “on the nose.” This candle is warm, cozy, and intimate without being too heavy, floral, or smoky. Diptyque candles are unique, high-quality, and luxurious; I find that the smaller votives provide the perfect amount of fragrance without being overpowering. Ambre is another fall favorite, and one of their best sellers.
otherland dappled wood
For all the woodsy candle lovers, Dappled Wood is the ultimate autumn blend. Sweet hay is an unexpected note, but adds such a level of authenticity that I usually find lacking in smoky candles. Vegan, hand poured in the USA, and toxin free, Otherland is quickly becoming one of my favorite candle brands. I’ve never experienced a headache with any of their candles, and I like that you can bundle directly on their website to save money. Otherland is a smaller business, but I really love that you don’t have to worry about their seasonal candles disappearing after just a few weeks - I always seem to get attached to new collections from local vendors, and hate the sadness that comes with “once they’re gone, they’re gone forever.”
