Ben Carter
Candles have been a source of light and ambiance for centuries, but are they a potential health hazard? The short answer is that it depends on several factors, including the type of candle, the length of exposure, and the ventilation in the area where the candle is burned. Some candles, particularly those made from paraffin wax, have been found to release harmful chemicals and pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as toluene, benzene, and formaldehyde, which are known or suspected carcinogens. However, other types of candles, such as those made from beeswax or soy wax, are marketed as healthier or non-toxic alternatives. While scientific and expert opinions are mixed, most agree that burning candles made from natural materials and ensuring proper ventilation can minimize potential health risks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Scientific opinion on candle safety | Mixed |
| Candles made from paraffin wax | Emit VOCs, including carcinogens such as benzene and formaldehyde |
| Candles made from natural sources | Best option for minimizing particulate matter; release least dangerous chemicals |
| Candles with lead wicks | Banned in 2003 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) |
| Occasional use of scented candles | Unlikely to have carcinogenic effects |
| Frequent burning of non-vegetable or non-soy-based scented candles | May increase cancer risk |
| Burning candles in drafty areas | Increases smoke produced |
| Burning candles releases | Hydrocarbons, but not enough to pose a significant health risk |
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What You'll Learn
Paraffin candles emit carcinogens
Paraffin wax is a cheap byproduct of petroleum, a by-product of gasoline production. Many candles are made from paraffin wax. Burning paraffin wax releases potentially dangerous chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates.
VOCs are carbon compounds that easily turn into gas at room temperature. Some VOCs are harmless and occur naturally in flowers, but others are potentially cancer-causing. Toluene, for example, is a VOC emitted from candles that has been registered as a toxin by some regulatory agencies. Exposure to toluene can cause dizziness, headaches, and more serious effects at prolonged exposure.
Another VOC emitted from paraffin candles is benzene, a known carcinogen. Benzene is also emitted from forest fires, volcanoes, and burning coal or oil. While smoking is the primary cause of benzene exposure, burning paraffin candles can also release this carcinogen into the air.
Formaldehyde, another known carcinogen, is also emitted from paraffin candles. A 2015 study found that the concentration of formaldehyde emitted from a lit strawberry-scented candle amounted to 2,098 parts per billion.
While the science is mixed, and some studies suggest that the amount of particulate matter released from burning candles is insignificant, other research suggests that burning paraffin candles contributes to poor air quality and increases the risk of exposure to chemicals of concern. If you are concerned about the potential negative health effects of burning paraffin wax, you can try using candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes.
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Benzene and toluene are toxic
Burning candles releases hydrocarbons, including toluene and benzene, into the air. While candles do not pose a significant health risk, the toxins released by paraffin candles are a cause for concern.
Toluene is a colourless, clear liquid with a distinctive smell. It occurs naturally in crude oil and is a byproduct of the production of gasoline, coke from coal, and some paint thinners. Toluene is registered as a toxin by several regulatory agencies, including the US Environmental Protection Agency, due to its classification as a neurotoxin. Exposure to toluene can cause dizziness, headaches, confusion, anxiety, and in higher quantities, unconsciousness and even death.
Benzene is a known carcinogen, increasing the risk of leukaemia and other blood cancers. It is emitted by forest fires, volcanoes, and burning coal or oil. While it is mostly used in industrial and pharmaceutical settings, 90% of exposure occurs through smoking.
The toxic effects of toluene and benzene are usually acquired through inhalation, which can result in systemic absorption and significant toxicity. These toxins can affect the pulmonary, central and peripheral nervous, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, dermal, and hematological systems. Renal tubular acidosis and hypokalemic paralysis are complications of toluene and benzene toxicity, and in rare cases, they can result in death.
While the science is mixed, it is recommended that people with bladder cancer or chronic lung conditions be mindful of their exposure to candle smoke, as the small amounts of toxins released can accumulate in the blood and be excreted through the bladder.
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Candles may emit toxins unlit
There is a lot of debate about whether candles are bad for one's health. While some claim that candles release potentially harmful toxins, others argue that candles do not contain enough toxins to be a health threat.
Paraffin candles, in particular, have been found to emit VOCs (volatile organic compounds) such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which contain benzene and formaldehyde, both of which are known carcinogens. Benzene is a gas emitted by forest fires, volcanoes, and burning coal or oil. It is used mainly in industrial and pharmaceutical settings, but the vast majority (90%) of benzene exposure comes from smoking. Benzene is a known carcinogen, linked to an increased risk of leukaemia and other blood cancers. Toluene, another VOC emitted by candles, is a neurotoxin associated with dizziness, headaches, and more severe effects from prolonged exposure.
However, it is important to note that the air concentrations of VOCs found in some candle studies have been insignificant when compared to levels previously deemed unsafe. An older 2014 study also found that the amount of particulate matter released from burning candles was not enough to cause health problems in humans.
According to an April 2015 study, candles may emit toxins even when unlit. However, the scientific and expert opinion on the safety of candles is mixed, and there is no definitive research that proves exposure to candle smoke increases the risk of developing any health condition.
If you are concerned about the potential negative health effects of burning paraffin wax, you can opt for candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes.
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Natural candles are safer
Burning candles can release harmful chemicals, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene, toluene, and other toxins, which can contribute to indoor air pollution and have been linked to bladder cancer. The candles of most concern are those made from paraffin wax, a cheap byproduct of petroleum refinement.
Natural candles, on the other hand, are safer and healthier alternatives to traditional paraffin candles. These candles are made from natural materials like beeswax, soy wax, coconut wax, and other plant-based waxes. They provide a cleaner burn, delightful aromas, and peace of mind, all without compromising your health.
Beeswax candles, in particular, are an excellent choice for non-toxic options. They burn cleaner, have a longer burn time, and purify the air. Soy and coconut wax candles are also great natural alternatives, as they still burn cleaner and produce fewer harmful byproducts than paraffin candles.
The most concerning part of any candle is often the fragrance, as fragrances can contain unregulated chemicals. Therefore, it is important to look for candles that use 100% essential oils for fragrance and incorporate sustainable materials. Certified organic candles are an even better option, as they adhere to strict standards to ensure no harmful chemicals or synthetic processes are involved in their production.
By choosing natural candles, you can minimize the amount of particulate matter and dangerous chemicals you breathe in, creating a cleaner and greener ambiance in your home.
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Lead wicks are banned
Burning candles can release hydrocarbons, including toluene and benzene, into the air. While there is no definitive research that exposure to candle smoke increases the risk of any health condition, benzene is a known carcinogen.
In 2003, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) banned the manufacturing, importing, or selling of candles with lead wicks. This ban was implemented to protect public health and safety, particularly that of children, as lead poisoning can cause behavioural problems, learning disabilities, hearing problems, and growth retardation. The CPSC's decision was informed by laboratory test data, which indicated that burning candles with metal-cored wicks containing more than 0.06% lead by weight resulted in detectable emissions of lead.
The domestic candle industry had largely stopped using lead in wicks in the 1970s, but lead-cored wicks reappeared in the US market sometime thereafter. The petition to ban lead-cored wicks was submitted by Public Citizen, the National Apartment Association, and the National Multi Housing Council in February 2001. The Commission voted to grant the petition and commence rulemaking in the same month.
Today, most candle manufacturers use safe alternatives to lead-cored wicks, including zinc, synthetic fibres, cotton, and paper. Consumers who wish to avoid lead exposure from candle wicks can contact retailers to inquire about the materials used in their products.
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Frequently asked questions
Burning candles, especially scented ones, releases hydrocarbons, including carcinogens like benzene and formaldehyde, into the air. However, the amount released is generally not enough to pose a significant health risk.
Candles made from paraffin wax, a cheap byproduct of petroleum refinement, are of particular concern. Natural candles, such as those made from beeswax or soy wax, release fewer dangerous chemicals.
To reduce your exposure to candle carcinogens, choose candles made from natural materials and scented with essential oils. Avoid burning candles in drafty areas, keep wicks trimmed, and ensure proper ventilation during and after burning a candle.
Yes, candle-free aromatherapy options like diffusers or ring burners can release pleasant scents without any harmful byproducts. Essential oils are non-toxic and can be added to a warm bath for a similar effect.
