Ben Carter
Scented candles are a common way to fill a room with pleasant smells. However, research shows that burning scented candles can be a health risk. The synthetic fragrances used in candles usually contain phthalates, which are released into the air and can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Phthalates are a group of endocrine disruptors that can affect your hormonal balance and cause reproductive and fertility issues. They can also exacerbate allergic symptoms and asthma, trigger migraines, damage liver function, and cause respiratory issues. As a result, many people seek phthalate-free candles, although it is challenging to identify phthalates as an ingredient because there is no law requiring them to be listed. Beeswax candles with small amounts of essential oils are recommended as a healthier alternative.
Are there phthalates in candles?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Phthalates in candles | Phthalates are a common chemical ingredient used in manufacturing cheap fragrance oils. They are used in synthetic fragrances, which give most scented candles their aroma. |
| Health risks | Phthalates are considered endocrine disruptors and can be detrimental to human health. They can exacerbate allergic symptoms and asthma, trigger migraines, damage liver function, and disrupt reproductive hormones, resulting in infertility and other hormonal imbalances. |
| Phthalate-free candles | Some candles are labelled "phthalate-free". Brands such as Aire Candle Co, Natural Sloth, Mrs. Meyer's, P.F. Candle Co, and Brooklyn Candle Studio offer phthalate-free options. |
| Alternatives | Pure essential oils are a safer alternative to scented candles as they do not contain phthalates or other toxic synthetic fragrance chemicals. |
| Usage recommendations | The National Candle Association recommends limiting candle burning to 4 hours and using a well-ventilated space. |
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What You'll Learn
Phthalates are released into the air when scented candles burn
Scented candles are known to fill our spaces with pleasant fragrances. However, burning scented candles releases phthalates into the air, which can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Phthalates are manufacturing chemicals used in fragrance oils to extend the strength of the candle's scent. They are also known as DEP (Diethyl Phthalate) and are considered semi-VOCs.
Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, which means they can interfere with our hormonal balance and lead to reproductive and fertility issues. The release of phthalates from burning candles has been linked to adverse health effects, including exacerbating allergic symptoms and asthma, triggering migraines, damaging liver function, and causing hormonal imbalances. These health concerns have led to a growing awareness of the potential risks associated with scented candles, and some candle manufacturers have started to offer phthalate-free products.
The presence of phthalates in scented candles is a significant concern, especially for pregnant women, mothers, and developing children. Endocrinologists agree about the severity of phthalates, and it is recommended to opt for phthalate-free alternatives to avoid exposure to these harmful chemicals. Some natural methods to create pleasant aromas in your space include using essential oils, boiling scented water on a stove, or using natural air-purifying sprays.
While typical candle usage does not have a defined meaning, the National Candle Association recommends limiting burning time to 4 hours and ensuring proper ventilation to mitigate the risks associated with scented candles. It is also advised to follow the manufacturer's instructions and limit the number of candles burning simultaneously. Additionally, beeswax candles with small amounts of essential oils are recommended as a lower-toxicity alternative to scented candles with phthalates.
Overall, while scented candles can enhance our sensory experiences, it is crucial to be aware of the potential release of phthalates into the air during burning. By opting for phthalate-free alternatives and following recommended usage guidelines, we can minimise our exposure to these harmful chemicals and create healthier living environments.
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Phthalates are considered endocrine disruptors
Phthalates are a group of widely used chemicals that are considered endocrine disruptors. They are commonly found in scented candles, with synthetic fragrances being the primary source. When candles containing phthalates are burned, these chemicals are released into the air and can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. While the level of exposure is low, chronic exposure to phthalates can adversely affect the endocrine system and the functioning of multiple organs.
The endocrine system is a network of hormones, hormone-producing glands, and hormone receptors that regulate core bodily functions such as growth, development, metabolism, reproduction, sleep, stress response, and immune response. Phthalates, as endocrine disruptors, can interfere with this system by increasing or decreasing hormone production and disrupting hormone signaling. This interference can lead to a range of health issues, including changes in fertility, early puberty, low birth weight, obesity, diabetes, immune system dysfunction, respiratory problems, certain types of cancers, and neurological and behavioral issues.
Research has shown a particular link between phthalate exposure and reproductive health issues. Phthalates have been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer and infertility in women, as well as learning, attention, and behavioral disorders in children. In vivo and in vitro studies have also demonstrated the endocrine-disrupting properties of phthalates, observing their impact on ovarian function in female rats and mice. Children are considered especially vulnerable to the effects of phthalates due to their developing bodies and higher exposure levels.
The recognition of the detrimental effects of phthalates has led to restrictions and regulations on certain types of phthalates in several countries. However, due to the ubiquitous nature of these chemicals, completely eliminating exposure from everyday life is challenging. Phthalates are not only found in candles but also in various consumer products, including plastics, paint, personal care items, and children's toys. As a result, it is essential to be mindful of the potential presence of phthalates in everyday items and to take precautions to minimize exposure, especially for pregnant women, infants, and children.
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Phthalates are used to extend the aromatic strength of the candle
Phthalates are a common chemical ingredient used in manufacturing cheap fragrance oils. They are used to extend the aromatic strength of the candle. Phthalates are released into the air when scented candles burn, and they can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. They are considered endocrine disruptors and can cause harm to human health. Some of the known adverse effects of phthalates include exacerbating allergic symptoms and asthma, triggering migraines, damaging liver function, and disrupting reproductive hormones, potentially leading to infertility and other hormonal imbalances.
Due to the potential health risks associated with phthalates, some candle manufacturers have started producing phthalate-free candles. These candles typically use natural essential oils or other alternative ingredients to create fragrances without relying on phthalates.
It is worth noting that even phthalate-free candles may still contain other toxic synthetic fragrance chemicals, such as the carcinogens benzophenone and styrene. Therefore, it is important to carefully read the labels and choose candles that are explicitly labelled as phthalate-free and made with natural ingredients.
While the health risks associated with phthalates are concerning, it is important to mention that the National Candle Association recommends limiting candle burning to four hours at a time in a well-ventilated space to minimize potential exposure to any harmful chemicals. Additionally, compared to other sources of indoor air pollution, such as wood-burning, candles emit lower levels of particulate matter and VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
In summary, phthalates are used in scented candles to enhance their aromatic strength, but they can pose health risks when inhaled or absorbed through the skin. As a result, consumers are increasingly seeking phthalate-free alternatives, and manufacturers are responding by creating candles with natural ingredients that are safer for indoor use.
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Phthalate-free candles are available
Phthalates are synthetic chemicals commonly used in plastics and fragrances to make them malleable. They are also frequently found in skincare, cosmetics, shampoo, and most large candle brands. When phthalates enter the bloodstream, they can disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates hormones, and have been linked to various health issues, including respiratory problems and adverse effects on fetal and child development.
However, there is no need to panic if you enjoy burning candles, as phthalate-free options are available. These candles are typically made with natural waxes, such as beeswax, coconut wax, or soy wax, and scented with essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances.
For example, Aire Candle Co. offers 100% pure, non-toxic, clean-burning, and phthalate-free candles made with U.S. beeswax, essential oils, and natural cotton wicks. Their products are free from parabens, paraffin, soy, nuts, carrier oils, lead, artificial fragrances, dyes, and toxins. Another option is Wind and Sage, which offers hand-poured candles made with a natural wax blend of coconut wax, soy wax, and beeswax, infused with essential oils and free of phthalates and parabens.
One Fur All is also mentioned by customers as a brand that offers dye, phthalate, and paraben-free candles, room sprays, and wax melts that are safe for both pets and babies.
While these phthalate-free candles are a healthier alternative, it is worth noting that even essential oils carry some risks. Additionally, the type of candle wax may impact emissions, with paraffin wax producing more VOCs and soot than natural waxes. However, the National Candle Association recommends limiting burn time to 4 hours and ensuring proper ventilation to mitigate potential risks.
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Phthalates can be absorbed through the skin
Phthalates are chemicals that can impact hormone levels and aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms. They are widely used in industrial products, including synthetic fragrances, which are used in candle-making. When candles are burned, phthalates are released into the air and can be inhaled or dermally absorbed through the skin.
Several studies have investigated the dermal absorption of phthalates. One study found that dermal exposure to phthalates through the skin was comparable to intake via inhalation. Another study observed that dermal exposure to certain phthalates was significantly higher than dust inhalation in both adults and children, highlighting the importance of skin exposure as a route of entry.
Phthalates can cross the skin barrier and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that different types of phthalates exhibit varying rates of skin permeation. For example, diethyl phthalate (DEP) displayed rapid permeation, while dibutyl phthalate (DBP) showed slower kinetics, and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) had minimal permeation.
The toxicity of phthalates is a significant concern in environmental health and toxicology. When phthalates enter the bloodstream, they can cause adverse health effects, such as exacerbating allergic symptoms, triggering asthma attacks, and altering hormone levels. These health effects have been associated with exposure to fragrances in scented candles, cleaning products, deodorants, and air fresheners.
To minimize the potential risks associated with phthalates, it is recommended to choose phthalate-free candles, ensure proper ventilation when burning candles, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for ideal burn time. Beeswax candles with essential oils for scent are considered a healthier alternative to traditional candles due to their lower toxicity and cleaner burning properties.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, phthalates are commonly found in scented candles. They are used in synthetic fragrances to extend the strength of the candle's aroma.
Phthalates are released into the air when candles burn and can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. They can exacerbate allergic symptoms and asthma, trigger migraines, damage liver function, and disrupt reproductive hormones, resulting in infertility and other hormonal imbalances.
Some candles are labelled "phthalate-free". However, manufacturers are not legally required to list phthalates as an ingredient, so they may be included under the term "fragrance". To ensure a candle is phthalate-free, choose a brand that explicitly states this on its packaging, website, or branding.
