Candle Fragrance Oils: Are They Safe Or Toxic?

Are candle fragrance oils toxic? It's a question that's been asked time and time again, and for good reason. With the rise of greenwashing and a lack of transparency in the fragrance industry, it's hard to know what's really in the products we're using. The short answer is that some candle fragrance oils are toxic, while others are not. It's important to understand the differences between synthetic and natural fragrance oils, as well as the potential dangers associated with each.

What makes candle fragrance oils toxic?

While candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, it's important to be aware of the potential dangers of candle fragrance oils. The fragrance industry often uses greenwashing marketing tactics and lacks transparency, so it's up to consumers to educate themselves on the potential risks.

The main issue with candle fragrance oils is that manufacturers are not required to disclose the chemicals used to create the fragrance, as these ingredients are considered trade secrets. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for consumers to know exactly what they are exposing themselves to when they burn scented candles.

So, what makes candle fragrance oils toxic? The answer lies in the chemicals used to create these fragrances. According to a report by the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), approximately 95% of the chemicals used in synthetic fragrance oils are derived from petroleum. These chemicals include aldehydes, benzene derivatives, and toluene, which are also found in products like toilet bowl cleaners, paint thinners, and insect repellents.

Exposure to these chemicals can have serious health consequences. For example, toluene exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, irregular heartbeat, fainting, and even death. The NAS also links these chemicals to cancer, birth defects, central nervous system disorders, and allergic reactions. In addition, synthetic fragrances contain allergens and neurotoxins that can affect the immune and nervous systems.

Another concern with candle fragrance oils is the presence of phthalates, which are used to make scents last longer. However, phthalates are hormone disruptors and have been linked to reproductive birth defects in baby boys. Other harmful ingredients to look out for include octoxynols and nonoxynols (also hormone disruptors), parabens, formaldehyde, and synthetic musks.

To avoid the potential dangers of candle fragrance oils, consumers can opt for candles made with essential oils, which are derived naturally from plants and do not contain toxic chemicals. It is also important to ensure that the candle is made with 100% natural wax, as candles made with paraffin wax and fragrance oils can produce a stronger scent but may be more toxic.

What are the health risks of toxic candle fragrance oils?

Candle fragrance oils are often synthetic, produced from man-made materials such as petrochemicals (petroleum-based chemicals). While natural fragrances are created with essential oils extracted from plants, flowers, or animals (musk).

The problem with synthetic fragrance oils is that they are derived from chemicals that can be harmful to human health. According to a report by the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), approximately 95% of the chemicals used in synthetic fragrance oils are derived from petroleum. These chemicals include aldehydes, benzene derivatives, and toluene—which are also found in toilet bowl cleaners, paint thinners, wart removers, and insect repellents.

The Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry (ATSDR) lists these ingredients as toxic substances, with warnings that exposure to toluene vapors can cause mild headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, or nausea. More serious exposure can lead to sleepiness, stumbling, irregular heartbeat, fainting, or even death.

Additionally, the NAS also cites these ingredients as being linked to cancer, birth defects, central nervous system disorders, and allergic reactions. A study published in 2019 found that one in three adults claimed to have experienced health problems, including migraines and respiratory issues, caused by fragranced products.

Another issue with synthetic fragrance oils is that they can act as endocrine disruptors. These chemicals mimic hormones and interfere with the endocrine system, which regulates growth, development, intelligence, and reproduction. The damage caused by endocrine disruptors can be irreversible and passed on to future generations.

Furthermore, synthetic fragrances contain allergens and neurotoxins that can affect the immune and nervous systems, respectively. Other ingredients of concern in fragrance oils include parabens, phthalates, and synthetic musks.

To avoid the potential health risks associated with toxic candle fragrance oils, it is recommended to opt for candles made with essential oils or natural fragrances, which are generally considered safer alternatives. However, even natural fragrances should be diluted, as undiluted essential oils can also cause adverse effects when inhaled for prolonged periods.

It is worth noting that the fragrance industry is not required to disclose all the ingredients used in their products, which can make it challenging for consumers to make informed choices. However, with increasing awareness and stricter regulations, there is a push for more transparency and safer alternatives in the market.

How do candle-makers avoid using toxic fragrance oils?

Candle-makers can avoid using toxic fragrance oils by opting for natural fragrance oils or essential oils instead of synthetic fragrance oils.

Natural fragrance oils are created by isolating natural aromatic components from essential oils. Essential oils are extracted from plants, flowers, or animals (musk). They can also be made from natural isolates, which are odour molecules "isolated" from essential oils. Natural fragrances are safe to inhale when diluted, as in candles and perfumes.

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant substances with aromatherapeutic benefits. They are typically obtained through distillation and have a characteristic fragrance of the plant or source from which they are extracted. However, some essential oils can trigger headaches, cause allergic reactions, or be toxic to certain individuals based on age or medical conditions. Therefore, candle-makers must ensure that the essential oils are properly diluted and labelled to avoid potential health hazards.

To avoid using toxic fragrance oils, candle-makers should also be cautious of the source of their essential oils. Some manufacturers add other ingredients, such as odourless solvents, to maximise profits. Additionally, oxidation of essential oils can make them toxic, so candle-makers must ensure proper blending and wicking to prevent oxidation during burning.

When choosing fragrance oils, candle-makers should opt for suppliers that provide transparency in their ingredients and avoid those that use greenwashing marketing tactics. Reputable suppliers will disclose the specific essential oils used, whether they are organic, and any potential allergens to ensure informed purchasing decisions.

By prioritising natural fragrance oils, essential oils, and transparent ingredient labelling, candle-makers can create non-toxic candles that are safe for their customers.

Are natural fragrance oils safer than synthetic fragrance oils?

There are several misconceptions about fragrance oils. One of them is that natural fragrance oils are always healthy and safe. However, this is not always the case, especially when it comes to burning candles. Not all natural oils are non-toxic, and not all products labelled as "natural" are 100% natural. Natural oils can cause irritation, photosensitivity, or trigger various reactions.

On the other hand, synthetic fragrance oils are created in a laboratory and are designed to mimic the scent of natural substances. While synthetic fragrances can be appealing due to their long-lasting scent and low cost, they can also be harmful to human health. Many synthetic fragrances contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are known to cause respiratory problems, headaches, and allergic reactions in some individuals. In addition, synthetic fragrances can contain phthalates, which are chemicals that have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues.

However, not all synthetic fragrances are harmful. Non-toxic synthetic fragrances are made with safer, plant-based ingredients that are less likely to cause negative health effects. These fragrances are often labelled as "natural" or "organic" and can be found in a variety of products, including candles. These fragrances are designed to be free of potentially harmful ingredients such as phthalates and synthetic musks, which have been linked to health concerns such as hormone disruption and cancer.

Another advantage of non-toxic synthetic fragrances is that they can be more consistent and reliable than natural fragrances. Natural fragrances can vary in scent and strength, depending on the source of the plant or flower and the conditions in which it is grown. In contrast, synthetic fragrances can be precisely formulated to provide a consistent scent experience every time.

In terms of sustainability, the production of natural fragrances, such as essential oils, often involves the use of large amounts of water, pesticides, and fertilizers, which can have a negative impact on the environment. Synthetic fragrances, on the other hand, can be produced using fewer natural resources and with less environmental impact.

When it comes to safety, natural fragrances typically don't release harmful VOCs that negatively impact health and the environment. From that perspective, they may be considered safer than synthetic fragrances. However, some people may be allergic to certain natural ingredients, and natural fragrances can also contain allergens.

As a consumer, it is important to carefully research products before use. There are currently no regulations regarding the use of the word "natural" to describe products. As a result, brands can combine a few natural fragrances with synthetic scents or add other types of man-made ingredients and still claim that their products are natural. The other chemical ingredients in these products may also give off VOCs or pose other risks to health and the environment.

To ensure you are using clean, non-toxic fragrance oils, it is recommended to check the EU allergen statement, the SDS or MSDS, and the IFRA to understand the level of fragrance used in the product. It is also important to depend on government regulations, such as California Prop 65, which ensures that products are made with the highest safety standards.

In conclusion, while natural fragrance oils may be considered safer than synthetic oils in terms of VOC emissions, it is important to remember that not all natural oils are non-toxic and hypoallergenic. Non-toxic synthetic fragrances can be a safer and more sustainable option, offering a consistent and reliable scent experience without the use of harmful chemicals.

How can consumers identify non-toxic fragrance oils?

It can be difficult to identify non-toxic fragrance oils, as fragrance formulas are often kept as trade secrets. However, there are some steps you can take to make sure you're getting clean, non-toxic fragrance oils:

• Check the EU allergen statement.
• Check the SDS or MSDS.
• Check the IFRA to understand the level of fragrance used in the product.
• Look for government regulations that ensure quality safe products, such as California Prop 65, which requires companies to disclose a list of toxic fragrance ingredients.
• Make sure there are no contaminants or cheap fillers in the mix.
• Cross-reference each ingredient with environmental groups, such as ewg.org.
• See if the company takes care of the communities, ecosystems, and agricultural practices related to their source of ingredients.

In addition, you can look for fragrance oils that are free from the following toxic ingredients:

• Phthalates
• Octoxynols and nonoxynols
• Benzene derivatives
• Formaldehyde
• Toluene
• Lyral
• Lilal
• Parabens
• Sulfates
• Carcinogens
• Reproductive toxicants
• Neurotoxicants
• Allergens
• Polyethylene glycols (PEGs)
• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
• BHT

You can also look for fragrance oils that are certified organic, cruelty-free, vegan, or sustainable. Some companies that offer non-toxic fragrance oils include:

• ESAS
• By Rosie Jane
• Skylar
• Prim Botanicals
• Ellis Brooklyn
• Maison Louis Marie
• Scentual Aroma
• Abel Odor
• The Nue Co
• Henry Rose
• Heretic Parfum
• Phlur
• A.N.OTHER
• Kenkô

Remember, it's always best to be cautious of products that make unsubstantiated claims about being clean, natural, or toxin-free. Reading the SDS and following the safety procedures is the best way to ensure you're using fragrance oils safely.

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