Ben Carter
Candles have been a source of light and decoration for centuries, but are they harmful to our health? Some people claim that candles release potentially harmful toxins, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde and benzene, which are known to be potentially carcinogenic. However, others argue that the amount of toxins released is not enough to pose a significant health threat, and that indoor cooking and daily exposure to car exhaust and factory pollution are far higher-risk activities. While few studies specifically examine candle emissions, experts recommend taking precautions such as using natural candles, ensuring good ventilation, and avoiding lower-quality candles to minimize any potential risks associated with burning candles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Scientific opinion | Mixed |
| Factors affecting risk | Candle type and quality, burning duration and frequency, Airflow, health status, etc. |
| Candle composition | Paraffin, beeswax, soy wax, palm stearin, plant-based waxes, fragrance oils |
| Potential health risks | Exposure to particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, benzene, allergens, headaches, Irritation of respiratory system and eyes |
| Minimizing risks | Choose natural candles, ensure proper ventilation, avoid lower-quality candles, keep wicks trimmed, burn in small doses, avoid around children or vulnerable individuals |
| Regulation | US government testing required before sales |
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What You'll Learn
The therapeutic benefits of candles may outweigh the health risks
While candles can release chemicals that may be harmful to human health, the therapeutic benefits of candles may outweigh the health risks.
Candles are a popular way to create a cosy atmosphere and are often used for relaxation and therapeutic purposes. The soft, warm light of a candle can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. The flickering flame and gentle glow can have a soothing effect, aiding in relaxation and potentially reducing anxiety. Candles are also commonly used in aromatherapy, with scented candles offering additional benefits associated with specific fragrances, such as lavender for relaxation or citrus scents for energizing and uplifting moods.
The potential health risks of candles are primarily associated with the release of chemicals and particulate matter into the air. Burning candles, particularly those made of paraffin wax, can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including formaldehyde and benzene. These compounds can be harmful and may increase the risk of cancer and respiratory issues. However, it's important to note that the amount of these compounds released by candles is typically very low and may not pose a significant health risk, especially when compared to other common sources of indoor air pollution, such as cooking.
To minimize any potential health risks associated with candles, it is recommended to choose candles made from natural waxes such as beeswax, soy wax, or plant-based waxes, as these produce fewer toxic chemicals and less soot. Ensuring proper ventilation when burning candles is also crucial, as it helps to reduce the concentration of harmful compounds and improves air quality.
While the scientific opinion on the safety of candles is mixed, the therapeutic benefits of candles can be significant for many people. The key lies in informed decision-making and taking appropriate precautions, such as choosing natural waxes, ensuring proper ventilation, and being mindful of the quality and type of candles. By taking these steps, individuals can enjoy the therapeutic effects of candles while minimizing potential health risks.
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Candles can contribute to indoor air pollution
While candles are a popular way to create a cosy atmosphere, add a pleasant fragrance, or even just provide light, they can also contribute to indoor air pollution. This is due to the release of hydrocarbons and other chemicals during combustion.
When a candle burns, it releases chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon, known as hydrocarbons, into the air. These hydrocarbons include toluene and benzene. Toluene is commonly found in paint thinners and adhesives, and exposure to it without proper ventilation can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and skin, as well as cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety. Benzene, on the other hand, is a gas emitted by forest fires, volcanoes, and burning coal or oil, and is used mainly in industrial and pharmaceutical settings. While smoking is the primary source of benzene exposure, it is also a known carcinogen, increasing the risk of leukaemia and other blood cancers.
In addition to hydrocarbons, burning candles can also release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are carbon compounds that easily turn into gases at room temperature and are found in car exhaust, factory pollution, and other sources of fossil fuel burning. While some VOCs, like formaldehyde, are potentially carcinogenic, the amount released from candles is less than half of the recommended limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The type of wax and quality of the candle can also impact the amount and kind of emissions generated. For example, paraffin wax, made from petroleum, tends to produce greater emissions than other waxes and is often found in cheaper candles. These lower-quality candles may also contain more formaldehyde-generating materials and have lower melting points, potentially increasing the release of VOCs.
To minimise the impact of candles on indoor air quality, experts recommend choosing candles made from natural sources, such as beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes. These natural candles release fewer dangerous chemicals and less soot. It is also important to ensure proper ventilation when burning candles and to keep them away from drafts to reduce the production of smoke. Additionally, opting for unscented candles or those made with essential oils and labelled as phthalate-free can help reduce the release of potentially harmful fragrance compounds.
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Lower-quality candles may emit more particulate matter
While there is no definitive scientific evidence that candles harm human health, some candles may be better than others. Lower-quality candles, often identifiable by their price, may use conventional waxes and fragrances. These candles may emit more particulate matter, which is a mixture of extremely small liquid droplets and particles that can enter your lungs. Prolonged exposure to particulate matter has been linked to heart and lung problems.
Paraffin wax, made from petroleum, tends to be used in cheaper candles and has been found to generate greater emissions than other waxes. Dr. Ariful Haque, a physician researcher at Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University in China, states that burning paraffin candles releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. VOCs are gases that easily and quickly vaporize at room temperature, and some, like formaldehyde and benzene, are potentially carcinogenic.
However, it is important to note that even scented candles do not release enough VOCs to exceed the amounts deemed safe by the World Health Organization (WHO). Additionally, the amount of particulate matter released from burning candles is not considered enough to cause health problems in humans, according to a 2014 study.
To minimize any potential health risks, experts recommend choosing candles made from natural sources, such as beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes, as these produce less soot and toxic chemicals than paraffin wax. Ensuring proper ventilation when burning candles can also help reduce indoor air pollution and minimize the potential health impacts of any emitted particulate matter.
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Burning candles may release harmful, cancer-causing chemicals
While there is no conclusive evidence that candles are harmful to your health, some studies suggest that burning candles may release harmful, cancer-causing chemicals.
When you burn a candle, you release hydrocarbons—chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon—into the air. Specifically, candles release trace amounts of toluene and benzene. Toluene is commonly found in paint thinners and adhesives, and exposure to it can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and skin, as well as cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety. Benzene is a gas emitted by forest fires, volcanoes, and burning coal or oil, and it is used mainly in industrial and pharmaceutical settings. However, 90% of benzene exposure comes from smoking. Benzene is carcinogenic and has been linked to an increased risk of leukaemia and other blood cancers. While you wouldn't want to breathe in large amounts of either of these substances, the small amounts released by candles are only cause for concern in certain situations.
Additionally, burning candles can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are gases that quickly vaporize into the air at room temperature. Some VOCs, like formaldehyde and benzene, are potentially cancer-causing. We are regularly exposed to VOCs in our daily lives through car exhaust, factory pollution, and other sources of fossil fuel burning. An older study from 2014 found that while candles do release particulate matter, it is not enough to cause health problems in humans.
The type of wax and quality of a candle can affect the amount and kind of emissions it generates. Paraffin wax, for example, is made from petroleum and tends to generate greater emissions than other waxes. Candles made with paraffin are usually cheaper, and these may have more formaldehyde-generating materials and a lower melting point. However, it is important to note that all candle waxes must go through testing regulated by the US government before they can be sold, so you can assume that they are safe.
To minimize any potential health risks associated with burning candles, experts recommend choosing candles made from 100% soy wax, beeswax, or stearin wax. Ensure the wick is made from cotton, wood, or synthetic materials, and avoid wicks with metal cores, especially those containing lead or zinc. If you prefer scented candles, look for those made with essential oils or labelled as phthalate-free. Always burn candles in a well-ventilated area to reduce indoor air pollution from soot, VOCs, or smoke. Keep the room spacious, and avoid burning candles around children, pregnant people, or individuals with respiratory conditions.
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Natural candles may be a better option
While there is no conclusive evidence that candles are harmful to your health, some candles may be better than others. Natural candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes are often recommended as a healthier alternative to paraffin wax candles.
Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum and has been found to generate greater emissions than other waxes. It releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned, which are gases that can easily vaporize into the air at room temperature. These VOCs may include potentially harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and benzene. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, and exposure to high levels of benzene has been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer.
On the other hand, natural waxes like beeswax and soy wax are considered safer options. Beeswax candles, for example, produce less soot and toxic chemicals than paraffin wax candles. Soy wax candles are also said to produce less soot and are made from renewable resources, making them a more environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, natural candles release fewer dangerous chemicals, according to researchers.
When choosing candles, it is important to consider factors such as wax type, quality, and scent. Opting for candles made from natural waxes and avoiding those with artificial fragrances can potentially reduce exposure to harmful chemicals. It is also recommended to ensure proper ventilation when burning candles to minimize the risk of indoor air pollution and potential health issues.
While natural candles may be a healthier option, it is worth noting that burning any type of candle will release some chemicals into the air. The key is to practice moderation and ensure adequate ventilation to minimize any potential health risks.
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Frequently asked questions
Burning candles can expose you to potentially hazardous chemicals, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein. However, studies conclude that exposure to these chemicals when burning candles is too low to present a direct health hazard.
Candles made from paraffin wax are said to release potentially dangerous chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates. People exposed to these chemicals reported headaches, shortness of breath, and coughing. Candles with lead wicks should also be avoided.
Scented candles can emit undesired chemicals that can be harmful. Some common complaints from those exposed to scented candles include vertigo, headaches, mucosa irritation, respiratory issues, watery eyes, sneezing, stuffy nose, chest tightness, and a dry or irritated throat.
Natural candles release fewer dangerous chemicals than artificial candles. However, there is nothing inherently more dangerous about an artificial candle than a natural aromatherapy candle.
If you're concerned about the potential negative health effects of burning candles, you can try using candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes. It is also recommended to burn candles in a well-ventilated area and to avoid burning them in drafty areas.
