Both incense and candles are used for scenting a space and providing ambiance, but they have some notable differences. Incense is made from organic materials, including herbs like sage, woods like cedar, and resins. Incense is typically burned on a holder known as a censor, which is designed to catch an incense stick or cone’s dropped ashes. In contrast, candles are fashioned from scented wax and have a wick that is lit to produce a flame. As the flame melts the wax, fragrance is released into the air.
When trying to make the call between incense or candles, consider what kind of scent you want and take into account any visual preferences you might have. Incense is often used in spiritual or meditative practices, and in line with this, often has a stronger scent and tends to produce more smoke than candles. Candles, meanwhile, are more commonly used for home fragrance or as a decorative element.