Brooke Martin
Candles have been a source of light and decoration for centuries, but are they bad for your health? There is a debate about the potential negative health effects of burning candles, with some claiming that candles release harmful toxins, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde and benzene, which are potentially carcinogenic. However, others argue that the amount of toxins released is not enough to cause health problems, and that indoor cooking and daily exposure to car exhaust and factory pollution are more significant sources of air pollution. The type of candle also matters, with natural candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or palm wax being better options than paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum and may release more particulate matter and chemicals. While the science is inconclusive, experts recommend minimizing risk by using high-quality candles, avoiding artificial fragrances and dyes, burning candles in well-ventilated spaces, and keeping wicks trimmed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Potential toxins | Candles may release potentially harmful toxins, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde and benzene. |
| Health risks | The health risks of burning candles are debated. Some claim that candles release harmful toxins, while others argue that the amount of toxins released is not enough to cause health issues. |
| Candle type | Candles made from natural sources, such as beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes, are considered safer alternatives to paraffin wax candles, which are made from petroleum byproducts. |
| Ventilation | Burning candles in a well-ventilated area is recommended to reduce indoor air pollution from soot, VOCs, and smoke. |
| Precautions | Avoid burning candles around children, pregnant individuals, or people with respiratory conditions. Keep wicks trimmed to reduce smoke, and follow candle safety guidelines to prevent fires. |
| Regulation | The candle industry is not well-regulated, and lower-quality candles may emit more particulate matter and chemicals. |
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What You'll Learn
Scented candles and artificial fragrances
There is an ongoing debate about whether burning candles is harmful to health. Some people claim that candles release potentially harmful toxins, while others argue that candles do not contain enough toxins to pose a significant health threat. The truth likely lies somewhere in between.
Scented candles, in particular, have been a subject of concern due to the artificial fragrances and colourants they contain. These additives can break down into harmful compounds when burned, releasing various chemicals into the air. For example, petroleum, the primary source of scented candle chemicals, contains benzene derivatives, which have been linked to an increased risk of urothelial cancer.
Additionally, fragrance oils, regardless of their natural or synthetic origin, can produce harmful compounds when burned. This is because the term “fragrance” is a broad category that often includes many undisclosed chemicals, some of which may be carcinogenic. Therefore, it is advisable to choose scented candles with essential oils or those labelled as phthalate-free. Burning candles in a well-ventilated area can also help reduce indoor air pollution from soot, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and smoke.
It is worth noting that natural candles made from plant-based waxes, such as beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax, are generally considered safer options. These candles produce less soot and toxic chemicals than those made from paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum and has been linked to the release of VOCs and phthalates. However, it is important to remember that even natural candles can be harmful if burned frequently and in inadequately ventilated spaces.
While the research on candle emissions and their potential effects on human health is limited and inconclusive, it is always better to be cautious. Therefore, it is recommended to follow candle safety guidelines, such as keeping candles away from drafts, trimming the wicks, and avoiding burning them around children, pregnant individuals, or people with respiratory conditions.
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Paraffin wax candles
There is some debate about whether candles are bad for your health. Candles made from paraffin wax, in particular, have been the subject of scrutiny due to the potential release of harmful toxins during combustion. Paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum, coal, or shale oil refinement, and it is the most commonly used candle wax worldwide.
When paraffin wax is burned, it can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates, which are gases that can quickly turn into vapour at room temperature. These chemicals can lead to adverse health effects, including headaches, shortness of breath, and coughing. Additionally, paraffin wax has been found to contain known carcinogens, such as benzene and formaldehyde, which are also present in car exhaust and factory pollution. Researchers at South Carolina State University found that melting paraffin wax candles emitted toxic toluene and benzene, which are not released from soy or beeswax candles. Toluene exposure can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and insomnia, and it can also lead to respiratory issues such as irritation of the mucous membranes and respiratory depression.
However, it is important to note that the amount of particulate matter released from burning candles may not be enough to cause significant health problems in humans. The risks associated with candle burning depend on various factors, including candle type, quality, duration of use, airflow in the space, and individual health status. Proper ventilation and following candle handling guidelines can also help minimise potential negative effects.
If you are concerned about the potential health impacts of paraffin wax candles, you can consider alternative options such as candles made from beeswax, soy wax, palm stearin, or other plant-based waxes. These natural candles produce less soot and release fewer toxic chemicals, providing a healthier option for your home.
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Candle emissions and human health
There is an ongoing debate about whether candles are harmful to human health. Burning candles can contribute to indoor air pollution, but the impact on human health is still uncertain. Candles are made from various materials, including paraffin wax, beeswax, soy wax, and palm wax. Paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum refinement and is the most common candle wax globally.
When candles are burned, they release hydrocarbons, chemical compounds containing hydrogen and carbon. Specifically, candles emit trace amounts of toluene and benzene. Toluene is commonly found in paint thinners and adhesives, while benzene is a gas released by forest fires, volcanoes, and burning coal or oil. Benzene is also used in industrial and pharmaceutical settings. While exposure to high levels of benzene is linked to increased risks of leukemia and other blood cancers, the small amounts released from candles are not considered a significant health risk for the general population. However, Dr. Sobia Farooq, a pulmonologist, suggests that there may be a correlation between candle burning and bladder cancer, as the volatile organic compounds accumulate in the blood and are excreted through the bladder.
The type and quality of candles can also affect emissions and health. Lower-quality candles tend to emit more particulate matter and chemicals, while higher-quality candles burn more slowly. Natural candles, such as those made from palm stearin, release less soot and fewer dangerous chemicals than paraffin candles. To minimize the potential health risks, it is recommended to use natural candles, ensure proper ventilation, and keep the candles away from drafts to reduce smoke production.
Additionally, it is advised to avoid burning candles around children, pregnant individuals, or those with respiratory conditions. Scented candles, particularly those with artificial fragrances, have been associated with the release of harmful chemicals. However, it is important to note that occasional candle burning is generally not considered dangerous, and the therapeutic benefits may outweigh the potential health risks for many individuals.
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Candle safety and ventilation
There is some debate about whether candles are bad for your health. Some people claim that candles release potentially harmful toxins, while others argue that candles do not contain enough toxins to pose a significant health threat. Burning candles, particularly paraffin candles, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter, which may be harmful in high concentrations. However, the amount of particulate matter released from burning candles is generally not considered enough to cause health problems.
To ensure optimal candle safety and ventilation, consider the following guidelines:
- Keep candles away from drafts to reduce smoke production and prevent rapid or uneven burning, sooting, and excessive dripping.
- Trim the wick regularly to a length of 1/4 to 1/2 inches. This helps maintain a steady flame and prevents uneven burning, dripping, or flaring.
- Use a candle snuffer or dip the wick in wax instead of blowing out a candle.
- Ventilate the room after extinguishing a candle to reduce indoor air pollution from soot, VOCs, or smoke. Avoid ventilating while the candle is still burning to prevent drafts.
- Burn candles in a spacious, well-ventilated area to minimize the concentration of any potentially harmful chemicals.
- Avoid lower-quality candles, as they may use conventional waxes or fragrances that release more pollutants.
- Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets, and never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Place burning candles at least three inches apart to prevent them from melting one another or creating drafts that affect their burning.
- Avoid burning candles near flammable materials or heat sources, and ensure they are placed in a stable, heat-resistant holder.
- Do not burn a candle all the way down. Discontinue use when 1/2 inch of wax remains in a container candle or 2 inches in a pillar candle.
- Extinguish candles that emit heavy black smoke, as this indicates incomplete combustion and the release of harmful pollutants.
- Avoid direct inhalation of any smoke, and be cautious if you have respiratory conditions or are pregnant.
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Natural alternatives to paraffin wax
There is some debate about whether burning candles is bad for your health. Some people claim that candles release potentially harmful toxins. However, people on the other side of the argument say that candles do not contain enough toxins to be a health threat. The National Candle Association reports that paraffin wax is the most used candle wax worldwide. Being a by-product of the crude oil refining process, paraffin wax is neither sustainable nor eco-friendly.
If you are looking for natural alternatives to paraffin wax, here are some options:
Beeswax
Beeswax is a more sustainable alternative to paraffin wax and provides very much the same benefits. Beeswax candles typically contain natural fragrances and dyes, in order to keep with sustainability. While paraffin products may contain artificial fragrances and dyes, which can be harmful. Beeswax is also a more expensive alternative to paraffin wax.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is a more sustainable and eco-friendly option than paraffin wax and it won’t produce toxic fumes when it is burned. If vegan products are your preference, then soy wax is a good option. However, there are concerns about how sustainable some types of soy wax are. If possible, research the source of your soy wax to make sure the soybeans were grown as sustainably as possible before purchasing. Soy wax is also a cheaper alternative to beeswax.
Palm Wax
Palm wax is made from the oil of palm berries. It is another 100% natural wax that is great for making candles. In addition to being more sustainable and eco-friendly, another benefit of palm wax is that it is vegan. Palm stearin candles also release half as much soot as candles made from paraffin.
Candelilla Wax
Candelilla wax is a great option for making homemade beauty products that are vegan and sustainable. It is a little thicker than beeswax, however, it is still a good alternative to paraffin wax.
Carnauba Wax
Carnauba wax is another natural wax that can be used as an alternative to paraffin wax.
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Frequently asked questions
Burning candles can expose you to potentially hazardous chemicals, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein. However, studies conclude that exposure to these chemicals when burning candles is too low to present a direct health hazard.
Candles made from natural waxes, such as soy, beeswax, or coconut are better choices than the more common paraffin wax.
The most common injuries reported are burns and smoke inhalation. Between 2018 and 2022, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 5,910 home fires started by candles per year, causing an average of 74 deaths and 558 injuries.
Scented candles can release undesired chemicals that can be harmful. However, there is no strong scientific evidence that scented candles are worse for your health.
Choose candles manufactured from natural materials and scented with essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes. Ensure your space is well-ventilated, and avoid burning candles for extended periods.
