Maddie James
Candles are a popular way to create a cosy atmosphere and fill a room with fragrance. However, many candles on the market contain toxic ingredients that can be harmful to both your health and the environment. While there is limited scientific evidence to suggest that candles are dangerous, some candles do release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter, which can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and even interfere with memory and decision-making. The risk of toxic emissions is greater when candles are scented or dyed, and artificial fragrances have been linked to a range of health issues. To minimise the potential negative health effects of burning candles, opt for natural candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes, and be sure to ventilate your space after burning.
Are candles toxic?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candles release chemicals | Yes, but the smoke from burning candles in a well-ventilated area is unlikely to significantly affect your health compared to the pollution you breathe in daily. |
| Candles release hydrocarbons | Yes, but it doesn't pose a significant health risk. |
| Candles are toxic | The scientific and expert opinion on the safety of candles is mixed. |
| Toxic candle ingredients | Paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining, releases harmful chemicals when burned, including benzene and toluene, both of which are known carcinogens. |
| Non-toxic candles | Beeswax, soy wax, stearin (coconut oil or animal fats), coconut wax, vegetable-based waxes, and other plant-based waxes are considered non-toxic. |
| Toxic candle wicks | Some wicks, especially in cheaper candles, contain lead or other heavy metals. |
| Alternatives to candles | Ghee and oil lamps, flameless candles, wax melts, and diyas |
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What You'll Learn
The dangers of scented candles
While there is little scientific evidence to suggest that candles are a danger to your health, scented candles can pose certain risks. Firstly, they can cause allergic reactions and even trigger asthma attacks. The risk of toxic emissions is greater when candles are scented or dyed, as artificial fragrances contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and toxins like phthalates, which can remain in the air even after the candle is extinguished. These chemicals can cause respiratory issues, endocrine problems, and reproductive harm, as well as interfere with memory and decision-making.
Additionally, scented candles can release harmful gases, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide, formaldehyde, and aromatic hydrocarbons like toluene and benzopyrene. Toluene, a neurotoxin, is associated with dizziness, headaches, and more serious effects from prolonged exposure. Benzopyrene is a known carcinogen, increasing the risk of cancer, especially when burned in inadequately ventilated rooms.
To minimize the dangers of scented candles, opt for candles manufactured from natural materials, such as beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax, rather than paraffin wax, which releases harmful chemicals when burned. Natural waxes burn cleaner and longer, producing less soot and toxic chemicals. It is also recommended to choose candles scented with essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes, and to ensure proper ventilation during and after burning a candle to reduce exposure to pollutants.
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The benefits of beeswax candles
Candles are a combustion product, so they do contribute to lower air quality and release hydrocarbons. However, there is little scientific evidence to suggest that they are a danger to your health. The biggest issues with candles are petroleum-based wax and air pollution. Candles made from natural sources are the best option for minimising the amount of particulate matter you breathe in.
Beeswax candles are a natural and renewable source, often smelling great even without added scents. They are made from beeswax, a natural substance produced by honey bees. Here are some benefits of beeswax candles:
- They are safe, natural, and good for you, allowing you to create a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere without worrying about their effects.
- They are environmentally friendly and biodegradable, requiring no chemical processing to be made.
- They burn very clean with little smoke and are virtually smokeless, producing a pleasant smell and a beautiful glow.
- They have a high melting point and high density, so they don't produce hot drips when burned in a draft-free place.
- They produce negative ions, which are thought to neutralise airborne pollutants, helping to remove the negative effects of breathing in dust, odours, and mould.
- They are vegetarian, unlike paraffin candles, which combine their key ingredient with stearic acid (derived from animal fat) to increase burning time.
- They are brighter but do not cause eye strain or headaches.
- They are made from one simple ingredient, beeswax, and are free from fragrances, toxins, and paraffins.
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The dangers of paraffin wax
Paraffin wax is a common ingredient in candles due to its low cost of production. However, its use has been associated with several health and environmental concerns. Firstly, paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil, which are non-renewable fossil fuel sources. The combustion of paraffin wax releases hydrocarbons, specifically toluene and benzene, into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. While the amount of particulate matter released from burning candles may not be sufficient to cause immediate health issues, extended exposure to these pollutants can potentially lead to heart and lung problems.
Toluene and benzene are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can have detrimental effects on human health. Toluene exposure, for example, can cause eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation, as well as headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety. Benzene, on the other hand, is a known carcinogen, and exposure to it has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. The release of these toxic compounds into the air highlights the dangers of paraffin wax candles, particularly when burned in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces.
Additionally, the soot produced by burning paraffin wax can accumulate on surfaces, causing a black film-like substance to form on walls, appliances, and even inside your nose if the candle is burned for extended periods. Beyond the health implications, the soot can also cause aesthetic damage to the surrounding environment. This issue is not limited to paraffin wax candles, as all candles produce some amount of soot, but the level of soot production varies depending on the type of wax.
The potential risks associated with paraffin wax have led to a growing awareness of alternative options. Natural, plant-based waxes such as soy, beeswax, and palm wax are increasingly popular choices for candles. These alternatives burn at lower temperatures, resulting in reduced soot production and a longer-lasting candle. They are also derived from renewable resources, making them a more environmentally friendly option compared to paraffin wax.
While the immediate health risks associated with paraffin wax candles may be relatively low, particularly when compared to other sources of air pollution, it is important to consider the cumulative effects of exposure to these toxic compounds. The release of VOCs and particulate matter into indoor environments underscores the importance of proper ventilation and the exploration of alternative wax options for a healthier and more sustainable choice.
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The effects of candles on indoor air quality
Candles are a popular way to create a cosy atmosphere and add a pleasant fragrance to a room. However, there are concerns about the potential impact of candles on indoor air quality and health. When candles burn, they release hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can have both short-term and long-term effects on health.
Types of Candles and Their Emissions
The type of wax and fragrance used in candles can affect the emissions they release. Candles made from paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct, are the most common type of candle. Paraffin wax releases harmful chemicals when burned, including benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde, which are known carcinogens. These chemicals can cause respiratory issues and contribute to indoor air pollution. Older or cheaper candles may also contain lead or heavy metals in their wicks, which can be released into the air when burned, posing serious health risks, especially for children and pets.
Health Risks of Candle Emissions
Extended exposure to particulate matter and VOCs released by candles can lead to health issues. Short-term exposure to VOCs like toluene and benzene can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety. Formaldehyde, another VOC, is suspected to be carcinogenic. Prolonged exposure to VOCs has been linked to more severe health issues, including liver and kidney damage and problems with the central nervous system.
Reducing Risks
To reduce the potential risks associated with candle use, it is recommended to choose candles made from natural materials, such as beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax, which burn cleaner and produce fewer toxins. Scented candles, particularly those with artificial fragrances, are more likely to release VOCs, so unscented or naturally scented candles are preferable. Proper ventilation is also crucial, as burning candles in enclosed spaces can increase exposure to harmful emissions.
Alternatives to Candles
For those concerned about the potential risks of candles, there are alternative options available. Flameless candles, for example, provide a similar ambiance without the fire risk or toxic emissions. Oil lamps, like diyas, are another smoke-free and less toxic alternative. Wax melts, which are heated at low temperatures, result in fewer combustion byproducts.
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How to choose a non-toxic candle
While there is limited scientific evidence that candles are dangerous to your health, burning a candle does release hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. To avoid exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, you can choose non-toxic candles made from natural, plant-based waxes such as soy, coconut, and beeswax. These candles are derived from renewable sources and produce less soot and toxic chemicals than candles made from paraffin, which is a petroleum byproduct.
When choosing a non-toxic candle, it is important to consider not only the type of wax but also the fragrance and wick material. Many candles use synthetic fragrances that can contain thousands of chemicals, including carcinogens and reproductive toxins. To avoid these potential hazards, look for candles that are scented with 100% essential oils and are certified non-toxic. Phthalate-free candles are also a safer option.
In addition to the fragrance, the wick material can also impact the toxicity of a candle. While lead-containing candle wicks have been banned in many countries, it is still important to check the ingredients and choose candles with natural, plant-based wicks to minimize your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
Some popular options for non-toxic candles include Bee Lucia Wellness Candles, which are made with a blend of pure food-grade beeswax, organic coconut oil, and essential oils, and Fontana Candle Co.'s beeswax and essential oil candles, which are MADE SAFE® certified. If you're looking for a longer-burning non-toxic candle, PeaceSake Candle is a good option, although it may not fill the room with as much scent as a paraffin candle.
To burn your candles safely and minimize their impact on your health and the environment, follow these tips:
- Keep candles away from drafty areas.
- Trim the wick if it gets longer than 5 to 10 millimeters.
- Use a candle snuffer or dip the wick in wax instead of blowing it out.
- Ventilate your room after extinguishing a candle.
- Avoid burning a candle for more than four hours at a time.
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Frequently asked questions
Burning candles releases hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. While there is little scientific evidence to suggest that candles are a danger to your health, some people have allergic reactions to scented candles.
Beeswax candles and soy candles are safer, greener options. Vegetable-based waxes are becoming more common and are a great substitute for paraffin or gel wax.
Scented candles can trigger allergies and asthma attacks. They also release VOCs, which can cause headaches, irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and cause nausea. Some VOCs are suspected or proven carcinogens.
Candles made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining, release harmful chemicals when burned, including benzene and toluene, which are known carcinogens. Candles with metal-core wicks, especially cheaper candles, may also contain lead or other heavy metals that can be released into the air when burned.
