Candle Fragrance Allergies: Am I At Risk?

Are you allergic to candle fragrance? It's a fair question, given that about one in five people report reacting to candles with symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. Candle fragrances are indeed a common culprit for triggering allergic responses, with over 5,000 different fragrances and combinations used in popular fragranced candles. If you experience allergic reactions, you may want to opt for candles made with essential oils or natural wax, or even choose fragrance-free options.

Symptoms of candle allergies

For many people, scented candles can cause allergic reactions. These reactions can be caused by the fragrances used in candles or, in some cases, an allergy to smoke.

If you are allergic to candles, you may experience a range of symptoms, including:

Respiratory Issues

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• A runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• A sore or itchy throat
• A tight feeling in the chest

Skin Problems

• Hives
• Rashes

Other Symptoms

• Headaches
• Dizziness

If you experience any of these symptoms when burning a candle, it is best to extinguish the candle and move to a well-ventilated area. If symptoms persist or become severe, seek medical advice.

Hypoallergenic candles

If you're experiencing symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, or a runny or itchy nose, headaches, or rashes, you may be allergic to candle fragrances. In fact, one in five people has reported symptoms of candle allergies.

The good news is that there are plenty of hypoallergenic candles on the market that can help minimise allergic reactions. Here's what to look for:

• Opt for candles made from 100% natural wax, such as beeswax or soy wax.
• Choose candles with a cotton wick, and ensure that the wicks are lead-free.
• If you're sensitive to fragrances, opt for fragrance-free candles or those scented with pure essential oils.
• Look for candles with a smokeless burn to avoid releasing toxic compounds into the air.
• Aire Candle Co.'s beeswax candles are handcrafted with pure essential oils and natural cotton wicks. They are non-toxic, clean-burning, and free of parabens, phthalates, paraffin, soy, nuts, carrier oils, lead, artificial fragrances, dyes, and toxins.
• Fontana Candle Co.'s essential oil candles are MADE SAFE® certified and use all-natural ingredients. They offer a range of scents, including cinnamon, orange, clove, vanilla, rosemary mint, and more.
• Huckleberry's hand-poured beeswax candle is chemical-free, smokeless, non-toxic, and non-allergenic.
• Amazon offers a wide range of hypoallergenic candles, including soy wax candles, beeswax candles, and essential oil candles. Some even come in decorative jars or with multiple wicks.

Toxic compounds in candles

Candles are a common household item, often used to create a cosy atmosphere or to fill a room with pleasant fragrances. However, burning candles, especially scented ones, can release toxic compounds that may pose health risks. These toxic compounds are released both before and after a candle is lit.

One of the main issues with candles is the use of petroleum-based wax, such as paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum refining. When burned, these candles release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including substances like toluene, benzene, and formaldehyde. VOCs are known to be harmful, causing headaches, respiratory issues, irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, nausea, and even damage to vital organs like the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Some VOCs are also suspected or proven carcinogens.

In addition to VOCs, scented candles may contain other toxic compounds, such as phthalates, which are added to fragrances to prolong their life. Phthalates are endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that can interfere with hormonal balance, leading to developmental issues in children and fertility challenges in adults. They also have a tendency to remain in household dust, increasing exposure over time.

The dyes used to colour candles can also be a source of toxic compounds. Chemical compounds used to achieve rich hues may contain heavy metals, which, when burned, release microscopic particles and chemical gases that can degrade indoor air quality. This can lead to or exacerbate respiratory issues, such as asthma or allergies, and potentially contribute to longer-term health conditions like heart disease or cancer.

To minimise exposure to toxic compounds, it is recommended to choose candles made from natural materials, such as beeswax or soy wax, and scented with essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances. Opting for candles with wicks made from pure cotton or wood can also help reduce the risk of releasing harmful chemicals. Additionally, ensuring proper ventilation during and after burning candles can help dissipate the chemical compounds and improve indoor air quality.

Allergy testing and treatment

Allergies to candle fragrances are common, and symptoms can range from sneezing, coughing, and a runny or itchy nose, to headaches, rashes, and even asthma attacks. If you suspect you have a candle fragrance allergy, it's important to consult a doctor or allergist for testing and treatment. Here are some common steps for allergy testing and treatment:

• Skin Patch Testing: Allergists or dermatologists can often visually diagnose a rash caused by an allergic reaction. However, to definitively determine if your symptoms are due to a fragrance allergy, skin patch testing may be required. This involves placing patches with different allergens on your skin for 48 hours, then evaluating the skin's response. If standard tests are negative, extended patch testing with a broader panel of allergens can be performed.
• Allergy Action Plan: If you experience allergy or asthma exacerbations due to fragrance exposure, your doctor may recommend creating an allergy action plan. This document outlines the steps to take in case of an allergic reaction, helping you be prepared and know what to do.
• Medication: Over-the-counter oral antihistamines and topical steroid creams can help alleviate mild allergy symptoms, such as itching and rashes. For more severe cases, prescription-strength steroids like hydrocortisone may be needed. For respiratory symptoms, nasal decongestants or steroid nasal sprays can provide relief.
• Environmental Changes: Reducing exposure to candle fragrances and other triggers is crucial. This may include choosing fragrance-free or hypoallergenic products, asking others to refrain from wearing strong perfumes, and using natural cleaners in your home. When burning candles, ensure proper ventilation.
• Allergen Avoidance: The best way to manage a candle fragrance allergy is to avoid exposure to the allergen. Look for candles made with natural waxes like beeswax or soy wax, and opt for fragrance-free or essential oil-scented options. Avoid paraffin wax candles and those with artificial colours or synthetic fragrances.
• Allergen Testing: If your symptoms persist or become severe, consider undergoing contact allergen testing to identify specific fragrance allergens you need to avoid. This can help you make more informed choices when purchasing candles and other fragranced products.

Remember, always consult a medical professional if you suspect you have an allergy. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your specific symptoms and needs.

Allergic reactions to specific candles

Allergic reactions to candles are more common than you might think, with about one in five people reporting symptoms. The fragrances in candles are the usual culprits that trigger allergic responses, with over 5,000 different fragrances and combinations used in popular fragranced candles.

Symptoms of a candle allergy can include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, sinus problems, headaches, hives or other skin rashes, coughing, wheezing, and a tight feeling in the chest. If you experience any of these symptoms when burning a candle, it is a good idea to blow it out and move to a well-ventilated area.

If you suspect that you are allergic to candles, you can try to identify the specific fragrance that is triggering your symptoms. This may be difficult, as synthetic fragrances are made up of hundreds of different chemicals. However, you can try to limit your exposure to scented candles and see if your symptoms improve.

To minimize the risk of an allergic reaction, opt for candles made with natural waxes such as beeswax or soy wax, and choose candles with cotton wicks. Fragrance-free candles or those scented with pure essential oils may also be less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.

If you love candles but struggle with allergies, there are some hypoallergenic options available that may be better suited to you.

Frequently asked questions