Whereas candles were once simply a functional way to light the dark, candles are now most often purchased to scent homes or to add a romantic or relaxing ambiance.

Lotion candles, also called body candles and massage candles, are yet another type of candle, this one serving several simultaneous functions. While they light a room, provide a wonderful ambiance, and emit subtle fragrance, lotion candles also contain cosmetic ingredients that make them a superb body moisturizer and massage oil alternative.

Because of their ingredients, a true lotion candle will melt at a very low temperature, usually at just 101 - 102 degrees. At slightly above body temperature, they are warm and not hot.

When shopping, how do you know if you've found a 'true' lotion candle of good quality? Here are six tips to help you shop wisely.

1. Does the candle label list ingredients? Because lotion candles are intended for use on the body, they fall under FDA guidelines. Lotion candles should have all ingredients listed in order of prominence on the product label. If ingredients are not presented, the maker is not in compliance with the FDA.

2. Does the label list net weight and manufacturer information? As an FDA regulated product, the net weight must be included on packaging. The phone number and/or address of the manufacturer or private-labeled reseller must also be present.

3. Is the fragrance skin-safe? Not all fragrance is. Some traditional candle makers are now beginning to make lotion candles as well. If those candle-makers are not familiar with bath and body product requirements, they may be using fragrance oils not intended for body use. If you are buying from an independent candle-maker, be sure to ask about the fragrance they use. Fragrance that is not skin-safe can cause adverse reactions.

4. Is the fragrance used in skin-safe amounts? Even if a fragrance is developed for safe body use, the amount of fragrance used in lotion candles is only a fraction of the amount used in a traditional scented candle. Using more can be toxic to the skin. Beware of anyone touting a lotion candle that is 'highly scented' or that can 'scent your whole room.' Such claims almost guarantee that there is too much fragrance used and that the candle is not skin-safe, even if the fragrance oil used is skin-safe by definition.

5. Does the container make it easy to access the melted lotion? Many traditional candle jars will make it difficult to get to the melted liquid for easy and convenient use. The container should be easy to dip into to access the melted lotion.

6. How does the candle feel when applied? If you're able to sample, a quality lotion candle will not feel waxy or leave a heavy residue. If it does, your candle is most likely made with traditional candle wax. Quality lotion candles feature cosmetic-grade ingredients that will provide your skin with the greatest benefits. A quality lotion candle should melt into a moisturizing liquid that fully soaks into your skin within a few minutes leaving a silky, soft feeling.

If you haven't tried a lotion candle yet, you're in for a treat. Just do your homework to ensure that you're buying a candle made by a quality manufacturer that follows FDA guidelines and uses high quality ingredients. Then just light it and pamper yourself or a partner with the rich, warm lotion. Enjoy!