Brooke Martin
Candles are a common household item, but some people are allergic to them. Fragrance allergies are common, and the triggering fragrance can vary from person to person. Symptoms of a candle allergy include respiratory congestion, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, headaches, and rashes. If you think you might be allergic to candles, there are alternatives you can try, such as beeswax candles or aromatherapy candles scented with plant-based extracts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Allergy Type | Fragrance, wax, smoke, or soot |
| Symptoms | Respiratory congestion, itchy/watery eyes, sneezing, headache, rash, nasal inflammation, stuffy nose, sinus problems |
| Prevention | Use natural essential oils, fragrance-free candles, beeswax candles, aromatherapy candles, natural cotton wicks, or seek allergy treatment |
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What You'll Learn
Symptoms of candle allergies
It is possible to be allergic to candles. While candles smell nice, about one in five people report reacting to candles with symptoms that include sneezing, a runny or stuffed-up nose, itchy eyes, sinus problems, headaches, hives or other skin rashes, coughing or wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
These symptoms can be caused by an allergic reaction to fragrances, which means the immune system overreacts. However, for others, the problems start because the scent irritates the airways directly.
If you are affected by candle allergies, you should consider the following:
- Go scentless or flame-free: Opt for non-scented candles or flameless LED candles.
- Try beeswax or soy candles: These are free of many of the chemicals found in standard paraffin candles, and soy candles tend to burn cleaner and longer.
- Choose natural wicks: Select candles with a natural cotton wick.
- Consult a doctor: Your physician can order an allergy test kit and may prescribe sublingual immunotherapy (oral allergy drops) or subcutaneous immunotherapy (allergy shots) to desensitize your body to allergens.
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Common allergens in candles
Candles can cause allergies, with about one in five people reporting reactions to candles. Common allergens in candles include:
Fragrance: Synthetic fragrances in candles are made up of hundreds of different chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions. Symptoms of fragrance allergies include headaches, difficulty breathing, sneezing, coughing, and skin rashes. Even if you have fragrance allergies, you can still enjoy scented candles by opting for candles scented with plant-based extracts instead of synthetic fragrances.
Wax: The type of wax used in candles can also be an allergen. The main types of waxes used in candle-making are paraffin, beeswax, and soy-based. Paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum, can emit harmful fumes such as toluene and benzene, which have been linked to exacerbating asthma symptoms. Soy and beeswax candles are natural alternatives that may be better for individuals with allergies, although they tend to be more expensive.
Wicks: The material used in candle wicks can also cause allergies. Cored wicks, which are commonly used to keep the wick upright, can be made of materials such as cotton, paper, zinc, or tin. While these materials are not inherently harmful, the way they are made can affect their allergenic potential. Natural cotton wicks are recommended for individuals with allergies.
If you suspect you are allergic to candles, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for advice and to consider allergy testing to identify specific allergens.
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Alternative candles to burn
If you're looking for alternatives to traditional candles, there are several options to choose from. Firstly, you can opt for candles made from natural materials like beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax. These candles offer a cleaner burn, delightful aromas, and peace of mind, knowing that you're not exposing yourself to potentially harmful chemicals found in traditional paraffin wax candles. Beeswax candles, in particular, are known for their longer burn time, air-purifying properties, and ability to burn cleaner. Soy and coconut wax candles are also excellent choices, providing a renewable and eco-friendly alternative.
When it comes to fragrance, opt for candles scented with pure essential oils or safe synthetic fragrances. Essential oils, derived from plants, offer a natural alternative to artificial fragrances, which may contain hazardous chemicals. Soy wax candles with 100% cotton wicks, such as LAFCO's large three-wick candles, provide a clean, non-toxic burn for up to 120 hours. If you're seeking stress relief and a calming atmosphere, the Real Luxury Scented Candle by Neom Organics blends lavender, jasmine, and Brazilian rosewood to promote relaxation and stress reduction.
For an even more eco-friendly and sustainable option, consider aromatherapy candles scented with plant-based extracts rather than synthetic scents. Brooklyn Candle Studio, for example, offers artisanal candles made with US-grown soy wax and natural cotton wicks. These candles provide exquisite fragrances, such as the Palo Santo Minimalist Candle, which offers a sweet, minty freshness and a sharp, smoky finish.
If you're looking for a completely different alternative to burning candles, you might want to try electric warmers or plate candle warmers. These devices melt scented candles from the bottom up, releasing the fragrance without the need for a flame. This method preserves the wax and extends the life of your candles. Another option is to use reed diffusers, which offer a longer-lasting fragrance experience. A reed diffuser typically consists of a vessel filled with fragrance oil and thin reeds that soak up and evaporate the fragrance into the air. Essential oil diffusers are also a great choice if you like to create custom fragrance blends.
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Allergy testing
Allergic reactions to candles are more common than one might think. About one in five people react to candles with symptoms such as sneezing, a runny or stuffed-up nose, itchy eyes, sinus problems, headaches, hives or other skin rashes, coughing or wheezing, and difficulty breathing. These allergic reactions can be caused by the type of wax used in the candle, such as paraffin, beeswax, or soy-based waxes, or the type of material used in the wick, such as cotton, paper, zinc, or tin.
If you suspect that you may be allergic to candles, it is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional. Your physician can order an allergy test kit to gauge your sensitivity to common allergen extracts. Allergy testing is typically covered by insurance companies, and your doctor may prescribe sublingual immunotherapy (oral allergy drops) or subcutaneous immunotherapy (allergy shots) to help desensitize your body to allergens.
To avoid allergic reactions to candles, consider the following:
- Choose natural wicks made from materials such as cotton or wood.
- Select candles with natural waxes such as beeswax or soy wax, which tend to burn cleaner and produce less soot.
- Opt for aromatherapy candles scented by plant-based extracts rather than synthetic scents, as synthetic smells comprise hundreds of different chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions.
By taking these precautions and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can continue to enjoy the ambiance and fragrance of candles while minimizing the risk of allergic reactions.
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Treatment options
If you are allergic to candles, there are several treatment options available to help manage your symptoms. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Identify the Irritant: The first step is to identify the specific substance that triggers your allergy. This could be the type of wax, fragrance, or soot and smoke produced by the candle. Try to narrow down the potential irritants by paying attention to your symptoms when exposed to different candles.
- Choose Alternative Wax Types: If you are allergic to a particular type of wax, such as paraffin or soy, opt for candles made from alternative waxes like beeswax or coconut blends. Beeswax candles are free of many chemicals found in standard paraffin candles, burn brighter, and last longer.
- Go Fragrance-Free or Natural: Fragrance allergies are common. If fragrances are the issue, choose fragrance-free candles or those that use natural essential oils. Avoid common irritants like cinnamon, vanilla, and certain floral scents.
- Reduce Soot and Smoke: Soot and smoke particles can aggravate respiratory allergies. Choose candles with pure cotton wicks and keep the wicks trimmed to minimise soot and smoke production.
- Opt for Flameless or LED Candles: If you enjoy the ambiance of candles but want to avoid the potential allergens, consider flameless LED candles. These candles provide the visual appeal without the risk of triggering allergies.
- Over-the-Counter Medications: For mild allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, or headaches, over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants can provide quick relief.
- Seek Medical Advice: If your symptoms are severe, prolonged, or do not respond to over-the-counter treatments, consult a doctor or allergy specialist. They can advise on prescription medications or allergy immunotherapy options, such as allergy shots, to help manage your symptoms more effectively.
Remember, the key to managing candle allergies is identifying the specific irritant and then taking steps to avoid or minimise exposure to it. With the right treatment options, you can continue to enjoy the ambiance and fragrance of candles while keeping your allergy symptoms under control.
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Frequently asked questions
If you are experiencing respiratory congestion, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, headaches, or rashes, you may be allergic to candles.
Common elements in candles that can cause allergic reactions include paraffin, soy, and certain fragrances.
If you are allergic to a specific type of wax, choose candles made from alternative waxes like beeswax. If you are allergic to certain fragrances, look for candles that use natural essential oils and avoid fragrances that could trigger a reaction, such as cinnamon, vanilla, and certain flowers.
Some alternatives to scented candles include beeswax candles and aromatherapy candles scented by plant-based extracts rather than synthetic scents.
