Brooke Martin
Candles are a popular way to create a cosy atmosphere, but do they have any health benefits or risks? Some sources claim that candles release toxic chemicals, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which are known carcinogens. However, other sources argue that candles do not release enough of these toxins to pose a significant health risk. While it is unlikely that candles contain protein, it is important to consider the potential health effects of burning candles, especially for individuals with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory sensitivities.
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What You'll Learn
Burning candles and indoor air pollution
Burning candles can contribute to indoor air pollution. This is due to the release of hydrocarbons—chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon—into the air. Specifically, burning candles release trace amounts of toluene and benzene. Toluene is commonly found in paint thinners and adhesives. Exposure to toluene without proper ventilation can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and skin, as well as cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety.
Paraffin (petroleum-based) candles and scented/aromatic candles are the most common types of candles on the market and are the worst offenders when it comes to indoor air pollution. This is due to the greater production of soot, which can contain phthalates, lead, benzene, toluene, and other volatile organic compounds. Soot can irritate the respiratory tract, trigger allergy or asthma symptoms, and adhere to air filters and home ventilation systems, negatively impacting air quality.
However, the scientific community is divided on whether the emissions from burning candles can significantly impact one's health. While a small number of studies suggest an association between candle burning and bladder cancer, other studies have found no statistically significant associations between candle use and the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory events.
To minimize indoor air pollutants when using candles, the Children's Environmental Health Network advises the following:
- Choose candles with a single, pure cotton wick.
- Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before lighting to ensure even burning.
- Pay attention to the burning patterns—the wax should burn evenly.
- Discontinue use of candles that create heavy soot.
- Increase ventilation when burning candles.
- Only burn candles for 1-2 hours at a time.
Additionally, individuals can improve indoor air quality by using air purifiers, humidifiers, and HEPA filters.
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The dangers of paraffin wax
Paraffin wax is a common ingredient in candles due to its affordability and ability to hold fragrance, colour, and finish well. However, burning paraffin wax candles has been associated with several health risks.
Firstly, paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil, and as a result, it may contain toxic chemicals such as toluene, benzene, and formaldehyde. These toxins are released into the air when the candle is burned, and exposure to them has been linked to respiratory irritation, allergies, and even cancer. Toluene, for instance, is a colourless, water-insoluble liquid that occurs naturally in crude oil and is emitted from gasoline fumes, vehicle exhausts, and cigarette smoke. Benzene is also a colourless liquid derived from natural gas and crude oil, and both substances are used as solvents. Therefore, inhaling these toxins from paraffin wax candles can have detrimental health effects.
Secondly, burning paraffin wax candles can contribute to indoor air pollution, especially in unventilated spaces. This increases the risk of exposure to the aforementioned toxins and can lead to long-term health issues, particularly for individuals who regularly burn candles. It is worth noting that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified paraffin wax candles as a leading cause of indoor air pollution.
Additionally, candles made from paraffin wax can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms. Fragrances and smells are common asthma triggers, and the chemicals released from burning paraffin wax can irritate inflamed airways, leading to allergy and asthma flare-ups. Furthermore, scented candles, including those made with paraffin wax, have been associated with headaches and migraines in some individuals.
While there are conflicting opinions on the extent of the dangers of paraffin wax candles, with some arguing that the amount of toxins released is insufficient to cause significant health issues, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with their use. To minimize the negative impacts, it is recommended to use candles made from alternative materials such as beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes, which produce less soot and toxic chemicals.
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Are scented candles worse for your health?
There is conflicting evidence about the health impact of scented candles. Some sources claim that scented candles are a significant source of indoor air pollution and can be harmful to health. On the other hand, some people argue that candles do not contain enough toxins to pose a health risk.
One concern is the release of toxic chemicals when candles are burned. Studies have shown that burning paraffin wax, the most commonly used candle wax, releases gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like toluene, benzene, and formaldehyde, which are known to be potentially carcinogenic. These chemicals can also irritate the airways of people with asthma and allergies, and fragrances are a common asthma trigger. In addition, burning candles release particulate matter like soot, and extended exposure to particulate matter is linked to heart and lung problems.
However, some disagree with the extent of the risk posed by scented candles. A 2014 study found that the amount of particulate matter released from burning candles is not enough to cause health problems in humans. The same study also found that the air concentrations of VOCs from candles were insignificant when compared to levels previously deemed unsafe. Candle wicks in the United States and some other countries also no longer contain lead, which was banned due to concerns over lead poisoning.
To minimize potential health risks, some experts recommend choosing candles made from natural materials such as beeswax, soy wax, or stearin wax (from coconut oil or animal fats). These candles are often considered healthier as they produce less soot and toxic chemicals than paraffin candles. It is also recommended to ensure the wick is cotton, wood, or synthetic, and free from metal cores. Burning candles in a well-ventilated area can also help reduce indoor air pollution from any soot, VOCs, or smoke.
Overall, while there is evidence that scented candles can release harmful chemicals, the extent of the risk they pose to health is still debated. Vulnerable individuals with respiratory issues or allergies may need to be more cautious, but for most people, the occasional use of scented candles is unlikely to cause significant health issues.
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Allergic reactions and asthma flare-ups
While candles are generally safe, scented candles can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms in some people. Fragrance is a common asthma trigger, and people with asthma have inflamed airways, making them more sensitive to chemical irritation, which can lead to flare-ups.
A 2014 study found that candles do not release enough chemicals to be carcinogenic under normal use. However, burning candles does release toxic chemicals, and it is unclear whether these chemicals are harmful to health. Some of these toxic chemicals include benzene and toluene, which are known to cause cancer and can also damage the brain, lungs, and central nervous system.
Particulate matter, a mixture of extremely small liquid droplets and particles that can enter the lungs, is another concern. Extended exposure to particulate matter can lead to heart and lung problems. VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are carbon compounds that easily turn into gases at room temperature. Some VOCs, like formaldehyde and benzene, are potentially carcinogenic. While we are regularly exposed to particulate matter and VOCs in our daily lives from sources like car exhaust and factory pollution, burning candles can contribute to indoor air pollution.
To minimize the potential negative health effects of burning paraffin wax, you can try using candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes. Soy candles, for example, produce less soot and toxic chemicals than paraffin candles, resulting in cleaner smoke. However, it is still advisable to minimize your intake of any type of smoke.
If you think you are allergic to candles, stop using them and consult your doctor about your health. To reduce the potential negative effects of burning candles, follow these tips:
- Avoid burning candles in drafty areas.
- Trim the wick if it becomes longer than 5 to 10 millimeters.
- Instead of blowing out a candle, use a candle snuffer or dip the wick into wax.
- Ventilate your room after extinguishing a candle.
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Safer alternatives to paraffin candles
Candles are generally safe, but some people may be allergic to them. Traditional candles, especially those made from paraffin wax, can release harmful chemicals like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene, toluene, and other toxins that can contribute to indoor air pollution. These chemicals may lead to health issues such as headaches, nasal congestion, and allergies. They can also cause allergy and asthma symptoms, and smells are a known migraine or headache trigger for many people.
If you’re worried about the potential negative health effects of burning paraffin wax, you can try using candles made from natural waxes like beeswax, soy wax, coconut wax, or other plant-based waxes. These candles are typically crafted from natural waxes and scented with pure essential oils, and feature wicks made from natural fibers like cotton or wood. They burn cleaner and produce fewer harmful byproducts than traditional paraffin candles.
Non-toxic candles, like Slow North's, favor natural alternatives such as soy wax, which burns cleaner and comes from renewable, American-grown sources. Authentic essential oils provide the fragrance in non-toxic candles, offering genuine, delightful aromas without synthetic perfumes or chemical additives. Many mass-produced commercial candles use wicks containing metal cores to help them stand up straighter, which can release harmful compounds into the air. Non-toxic candles are only made with wicks made of natural fibers, and coated with vegetable wax, ensuring a safe, clean burn.
Some popular non-toxic candle brands include Neom Organics, Slow North, and Orbasics.
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Frequently asked questions
No, candles do not contain protein.
Burning candles releases gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like toluene and benzene, which are known to cause cancer. However, there is disagreement on whether candles release enough of these toxins to be a health threat. Some studies suggest that candles do not release enough chemicals to be carcinogenic under normal use.
Paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum that produces large amounts of soot and other polluting compounds when burned. It is recommended to use candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes as alternatives.
Scented candles can trigger asthma and allergy attacks for some people. Fragrance is a common asthma trigger, and people with these conditions have inflamed airways that are more sensitive to chemical irritation.
