Candle Fragrances: Are They Harmful To Your Health?

Scented candles are a popular way to add ambience to a space, but are they bad for your health? When candles burn, they release various vapours and particles into the air, including harmful chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde. However, research suggests that the amount of these chemicals released during typical use is too low to pose a significant health risk. While the greatest health concern with candles is lead exposure, most candle manufacturers have voluntarily stopped using lead-based wicks since the 1970s. Additionally, candles made from natural waxes like soy or beeswax are considered safer alternatives to paraffin wax, which may increase exposure to harmful chemicals. Overall, while scented candles can trigger headaches or allergy symptoms in sensitive individuals, they are unlikely to cause long-term health issues for most people when used in moderation.

Candles can release harmful chemicals

While candles are a great way to make your home smell good, add soft light, and relax, they can release harmful chemicals. Candles can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde and benzene, which are known carcinogens. These chemicals can be dangerous, especially to those with respiratory conditions. That said, the amount of these chemicals released by candles is very low and is not considered a serious health risk for most people.

The Science Behind It

When candles burn, they release particulate matter (soot) and volatile organic compounds into the air. VOCs include chemicals such as formaldehyde and benzene, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. A 2014 peer-reviewed study found that scented candles produced VOCs even when unlit, and once lit, released different chemicals such as formaldehyde in higher concentrations.

The Health Risks

The health risks associated with candle burning are generally low for most people. The concentration of harmful chemicals released is usually not high enough to cause serious problems. However, for individuals with asthma, allergies, or respiratory conditions, scented candles can trigger or exacerbate symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and eye and throat irritation.

Ways to Reduce Exposure

If you are concerned about the potential health risks of candle burning, there are a few things you can do to reduce your exposure:

• Opt for natural wax candles made from soy, beeswax, or coconut wax, which are considered less toxic.
• Burn candles for shorter periods, ideally less than four hours at a time.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the room by opening a window or using an air purifier.
• Choose high-quality candles from reputable sources.
• Keep candles away from combustible materials and never leave them unattended.

The amount of harmful chemicals is likely not enough to be a health risk

Candles are a popular way to add ambiance to a space, but they may release harmful chemicals. However, the amount of harmful chemicals is likely not enough to be a health risk.

The Chemicals in Candles

Candles release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned, which may have short-term and long-term negative health effects. These include formaldehyde, benzene, and acetaldehyde, which are known carcinogens. Candles made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum, may increase exposure to these harmful chemicals.

The Health Risks of Candle Fragrances

While candles do release harmful chemicals, the concentrations of these chemicals are very low. A 2014 peer-reviewed study on the human health risks of candle emissions found that while cancer-causing chemicals were present, the emissions from candles are unlikely to cause long-term health effects. The particles released from candles are in such small amounts that they do not pose a significant health risk to most people.

Tips for Safe Candle Use

If you are concerned about the potential health risks of candle fragrances, there are a few things you can do. Opting for natural wax candles, such as those made from soy or beeswax, can be a better choice than paraffin wax candles. Burning candles for less than four hours at a time and ensuring proper ventilation can also help minimize exposure to any harmful chemicals.

Candles may trigger allergies and respiratory issues

While candles are a great way to make your home smell good and add a soft light to your space, they may trigger allergies and respiratory issues in some people.

Candles release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which may have short-term and long-term negative health effects. These include chemicals such as formaldehyde, benzene, and acetaldehyde, which are known carcinogens. While the concentrations of these chemicals are very low, they can still cause issues for people with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions.

A university survey found that people who are sensitive to fragrances can experience headaches, shortness of breath, and coughing from exposure to scented candles. Additionally, the odors from scented candles can potentially trigger or exacerbate symptoms in individuals with asthma, allergies, or sensitivities to scents.

The type of wax used in candles can also affect the number of pollutants released into the air. Paraffin wax, the most commonly used type of wax, may increase exposure to harmful chemicals. Natural waxes, such as beeswax, soy, or palm wax, are considered less toxic and release fewer harmful chemicals.

If you are concerned about the potential health risks of burning candles, there are a few things you can do. Opting for natural wax candles or burning candles for less than four hours at a time can help reduce your exposure to pollutants. Additionally, choosing candles with wicks that do not contain lead or other metals can also be a safer option.

Overall, while candles may trigger allergies and respiratory issues in some people, the amount of exposure to these pollutants is generally not enough to cause serious health issues for most individuals. However, it is important to be mindful of the potential risks and take steps to minimize exposure if you are concerned.

Paraffin wax candles may be worse for your health than natural wax candles

Paraffin wax is a by-product of petroleum, coal, or shale oil, and is the most commonly used wax for candles. It has been found to contain known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) such as benzene and formaldehyde. When burned, paraffin wax candles release these toxic chemicals into the air, which can be harmful when inhaled.

The dangers of paraffin wax

Paraffin wax candles emit hazardous fumes while burning, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (soot). These fumes contain chemicals such as benzene and toluene, which have been linked to lung diseases such as cancer and asthma. According to the American Cancer Society, benzene is known to cause cancer, and rates of leukemia have been found to be higher in studies of workers exposed to high levels of benzene. Toluene, on the other hand, can cause damage to the central nervous system, resulting in headaches, nausea, dizziness, and insomnia, according to the Department of California's Hazard Communication Standard/OSHA regulation.

The benefits of natural wax candles

Natural wax candles, such as those made from beeswax, soy, or palm wax, are considered to be a safer alternative to paraffin wax candles. These candles are made from sustainable, naturally sourced ingredients and do not contain the same harmful chemicals as paraffin wax. Studies have shown that natural wax candles emit fewer smoke particles and less soot than paraffin wax candles, suggesting that they are less toxic.

The bottom line

While the research on the health risks of paraffin wax candles is limited, the evidence suggests that natural wax candles are a healthier option. Paraffin wax candles release toxic chemicals into the air, which can be harmful to human health, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. Natural wax candles, on the other hand, have been shown to produce fewer harmful emissions and are made from more sustainable ingredients. Therefore, if you are concerned about the potential health risks of paraffin wax candles, it may be wise to opt for natural wax candles instead.

Candles manufactured outside the US may contain lead in the wicks

While candles are a great way to relax and unwind, there are some concerns about the potential health risks associated with burning them. One particular concern is the presence of lead in candle wicks, especially in candles manufactured outside the US.

In 2003, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) banned the manufacture and sale of candles with lead-cored wicks, citing the risk of lead poisoning, especially in young children. This ban applies to all domestic and imported candles, and it is meant to deter manufacturers from producing non-compliant wicks and allow the US Customs Service to stop shipments of such products. The ban also enables the CPSC to seek penalties for violations.

Despite this ban, it is important to note that some imported candles may still contain lead-cored wicks. A small percentage of candles sold in the past several years still contained lead-cored wicks, according to a CPSC investigation. This is a concern because burning these candles can release relatively large amounts of lead into the air, which children can inhale. Additionally, children may be exposed to lead by mouthing objects that have come into contact with leaded candle fumes or by handling such objects and then touching their mouths.

To ensure the safety of your candles, it is recommended to look for wicks made from natural materials such as 100% cotton or wood. These natural wicks are safer and reduce the risk of lead exposure. It is also worth noting that the National Candle Association's members voluntarily agreed to stop using lead wicks, and they produce about 95% of the candles manufactured in the US.

By being aware of the potential risks and taking the necessary precautions, consumers can enjoy the ambiance and relaxation of candles without compromising their health or the health of their loved ones.

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