Tyler Brooks
Candles are a common way to enhance the atmosphere of a room, especially during the holidays. However, scented candles can quickly trigger allergy and asthma symptoms, including sneezing, coughing, wheezing, headaches, watery eyes, and nasal congestion. While sinus infections are typically caused by viruses, they can also be triggered by the irritating chemicals and synthetic smells released by scented candles. These smells are composed of hundreds of different chemicals, and it can be challenging to pinpoint which specific chemical is causing an allergic reaction. To avoid candle allergies, individuals can opt for non-scented, beeswax, or soy candles, or choose flameless LED candles that provide the ambiance without the potential health risks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reaction | Sneezing, itchy eyes, sinus problems, coughing, wheezing, skin rashes, watery eyes, headaches, throat irritation, congestion |
| Cause | Synthetic smells, chemicals, paraffin, fragrance oils, essential oils |
| Alternatives | Beeswax candles, aromatherapy candles, soy candles, coconut blends, non-scented candles, flameless candles |
| Treatment | Allergy shots, oral allergy drops, over-the-counter medication |
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What You'll Learn
Symptoms of candle allergies
Some common symptoms of candle allergies include:
- Sneezing
- A runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Sinus problems, such as congestion and inflammation
- Headaches
- Skin rashes, such as hives
- Coughing or wheezing
- Nausea, cramping, and other stomach issues
These symptoms are caused by an immune system reaction to the fragrances and chemicals in candles. Synthetic fragrances are made up of hundreds of different chemicals, and it can be challenging to pinpoint which specific chemical is causing the allergic reaction.
If you suspect you have a candle allergy, it is recommended to limit exposure to scented candles and opt for unscented, natural, or flameless alternatives. Beeswax and soy candles are also recommended as they are free from many of the chemicals found in standard paraffin candles.
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Alternatives to scented candles
Scented candles can trigger allergic reactions in some people. Synthetic fragrances are composed of hundreds of different chemicals, and it is challenging to pinpoint which specific chemical is causing the allergy.
Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles are a natural alternative to paraffin candles, which are derived from petroleum or shale. Beeswax candles are free of many chemicals found in standard paraffin candles, burn brighter, and last longer. However, it is important to note that some people may be allergic to beeswax, so it is advisable to test a small area before using it extensively.
Soy Candles
Soy candles are another natural alternative to paraffin candles. They are made from soybean oil and offer a sustainable and eco-friendly option.
Reed Diffusers
Reed diffusers are a popular alternative to scented candles. They offer a longer-lasting fragrance, typically lasting from four months to a year, depending on the size of the reed. Reed diffusers use natural reeds and authentic essential oil-based fragrances, providing numerous health benefits such as reducing stress, improving sleep, and clearing sinuses.
Electric Warmers
Electric warmers, also known as plate candle warmers, are devices that melt scented candles from the bottom up to release the fragrance without a flame. This method preserves the wax and extends the life of your scented candles. Electric warmers are ideal for small to medium-sized candles.
Essential Oil Diffusers
Essential oil diffusers are a healthy and eco-friendly alternative to scented candles. They use jet nozzles or ultrasonic vibrations to create a steam of pressurized air, breaking down essential oils into tiny particles that are easily dispersed into the air as mist. This option allows you to create custom fragrance blends and swap scents according to your preferences or moods.
Room Mists
Room mists are a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to scented candles. They provide a quick burst of fragrance to freshen up your space. Room mists can also be paired with reed diffusers for a longer-lasting scent.
Incense
Incense burning is another excellent alternative to scented candles. It creates a subtle fragrance without producing VOCs or other toxic chemicals. However, it is important to invest in high-quality, natural incense to make it an eco-friendly option.
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Allergy testing and treatment
Allergies are a common immune system reaction to different allergens floating in the air. About one in five people report reacting to candles with symptoms that include sneezing, a runny or stuffed-up nose, itchy eyes, sinus problems, head pain, hives or other skin rashes, coughing, wheezing, and in some cases, difficulty breathing.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to seek professional medical help. Your physician can order an allergy test kit to gauge your sensitivity to common allergen extracts. Unfortunately, your doctor cannot test for a reaction to a fragrance, so you will have to do some detective work to figure out what scent is causing your symptoms. Pay attention to the times when your symptoms seem to flare up and whether you were around any strong smells.
Your physician may prescribe sublingual immunotherapy (oral allergy drops) or subcutaneous immunotherapy (allergy shots). Both can help desensitize your body to allergens in the environment. Most insurance companies cover allergy testing as well as initial and follow-up visits with your allergy doctor, but some are restrictive about the type of allergy immunotherapy they will cover.
If you are struggling with candle allergies, you may want to avoid scented candles and opt for non-scented candles or flameless LED candles. Beeswax candles are also free of many of the chemicals found in standard paraffin candles, burn brighter, and last longer. Soy candles are another natural alternative.
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Common indoor allergens
While candles themselves are not allergens, the fragrances used in scented candles are made up of hundreds of different chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions. Symptoms of candle allergies include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, sinus problems, head pain, hives or other skin rashes, coughing, and wheezing.
If you suspect that you are allergic to candles, you may want to switch to non-scented candles or flame-free LED candles. Beeswax candles are another option, as they are free of many of the chemicals found in standard paraffin candles. Soy candles are also a natural alternative.
Now, here is some information on common indoor allergens:
- Dust mites: Dust mites are microscopic, insect-like pests that live in bedding, mattresses, furniture, and carpets. They feed on dead human skin cells and thrive in temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. While they are harmless in the sense that they do not bite, sting, or burrow into the human body, their fecal pellets and body fragments can cause allergy symptoms. Dust mites are associated with diseases such as allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and asthma.
- Pet dander: The proteins found in pet dander, saliva, and urine can cause allergic reactions or aggravate asthma symptoms. Pet dander can be found even in homes that have never housed pets, as it can be tracked in on clothes, shoes, and belongings. Allergic reactions to pet dander can include nasal congestion, facial pressure and pain, and itchy, inflamed eyes.
- Mold: Mold is a type of tiny fungi that thrives in damp environments and places with high moisture levels. Mold can build up in bathrooms, basements, and laundry areas, and it can aggravate allergic conditions such as allergic rhinitis and atopic eczema.
- Cockroaches: Cockroaches contain a protein that is an allergen for many people. Their saliva, feces, and shedding body parts can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms such as coughing, nasal congestion, skin rash, wheezing, and sinus infections.
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Allergy-friendly holiday decor
Allergic reactions to candles are common, with one in five people reporting symptoms such as sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, sinus problems, headaches, hives, coughing, and wheezing. These reactions are caused by the various chemicals found in standard paraffin candles, which are made from petroleum or shale.
Opt for LED candles
LED candles are a hypoallergenic alternative to traditional candles. They are flameless, reducing the risk of fire hazards, and do not release soot or other particles into the air, making them ideal for people with allergies or asthma. LED candles come in various shapes, sizes, and colours, making them a versatile option for holiday decorating.
Choose beeswax or soy candles
Beeswax and soy candles are natural alternatives to paraffin candles, free from many of the chemicals that can trigger allergies. Beeswax candles burn brighter and last longer than standard paraffin candles. Soy candles are also a natural option that won't irritate allergies.
Go scentless
If scented candles trigger your allergies, opt for non-scented candles. Alternatively, try aromatherapy candles, which can provide a pleasant scent without the harsh chemicals.
Clean your decorations
Before displaying your holiday decorations, give them a good cleaning to remove any dust, pollen, or other allergens that may have accumulated. This is especially important for artificial Christmas trees and fabric decorations, which can be more difficult to keep dust-free.
Store decorations properly
After the holidays, store your decorations in a cool, dry space to prevent dust from accumulating. This will help reduce the number of allergens you're exposed to when you take out your decorations next year.
Consider an allergy test
If your allergies are severely impacting your life, consider seeing a doctor for an allergy test. They may also recommend allergy shots or drops to help desensitize your body to specific allergens.
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Frequently asked questions
Symptoms of candle allergies include sneezing, a runny or stuffed-up nose, itchy and watery eyes, sinus problems, headaches, hives or other skin rashes, coughing, wheezing, and throat irritation.
Candle allergies are caused by the synthetic smells that comprise the candles, which are composed of many different chemicals that can trigger an allergic reaction.
If you suspect that you have a candle allergy, you can consult a physician, who can order an allergy test kit to gauge your sensitivity to common allergen extracts.
Yes, there are several alternatives to scented candles, including beeswax candles, soy candles, aromatherapy candles, and flameless candles.
