Brooke Martin
Candles are a common feature in many homes, but are they harmful to our health? The short answer is yes. Burning candles release hydrocarbons, chemicals, and particulate matter into the air, which can negatively impact indoor air quality. The type of candle you burn is important, as cheaper candles or those with thicker wicks can produce more soot, and scented candles can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde, alcohol, esters, and petroleum distillates, which can cause headaches, dizziness, and trouble breathing. To minimise the negative effects of candle burning, opt for soy- or vegetable-based candles, ensure proper ventilation, and limit burning time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Impact on health | Burning candles can contribute to poor indoor air quality and overall poor air quality in your home. |
| A 2013 study found that candles create an abundance of soot which isn't great for inhaling. | |
| Burning candles release hydrocarbons, toluene, benzene, acetone, phthalates, and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the air. | |
| According to a study from South Carolina State University, paraffin wax can cause long-term harm. | |
| The American Lung Association states that scented candles can cause problems with breathing for people with asthma. | |
| Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and trouble breathing have been reported from the inhalation of VOCs. | |
| Traces of heavy metals are released into the air when candle wicks burn. | |
| Lower-quality candles emit more particulate matter and chemicals. | |
| Soy- and vegetable-based candles are healthier options. | |
| Safety hazards | The most obvious safety hazard of burning candles is the risk of fire. |
| Burning candles for too long can cause the wax to liquify and burn at an accelerated pace, increasing the amount of soot produced. | |
| Black soot can be reduced by trimming the wick before lighting the candle. |
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What You'll Learn
- Scented candles emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) which can cause headaches, dizziness and trouble breathing
- Burning candles release hydrocarbons, chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon
- Paraffin wax candles, made from petroleum by-products, can release acetone, benzene and toluene into the air
- Lower-quality candles emit more particulate matter and chemicals
- Burning candles for shorter periods of time and ventilating your house can reduce negative health impacts
Scented candles emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) which can cause headaches, dizziness and trouble breathing
Burning candles, especially scented ones, can negatively impact indoor air quality. Scented candles emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde, alcohol, esters, and petroleum distillates. These compounds can cause various health issues, including headaches, dizziness, and trouble breathing.
VOCs are released into the air when paraffin wax, the most common type of commercial candle wax, is burned. These compounds are also found in diesel fuel emissions. According to a study from South Carolina State University, the long-term inhalation of these pollutants can lead to health risks such as cancer, allergies, and asthma.
The American Lung Association warns that scented candles can be problematic for people with asthma, as the scents alone can trigger breathing difficulties. Additionally, scented candles produce more soot than unscented ones due to the reaction between solid paraffin wax and liquid fragrance oils at room temperature.
To minimize the negative impacts of burning candles, it is recommended to limit burning time, ensure proper ventilation, and opt for vegetable- or soy-based candles, which are considered healthier alternatives. While the combustion of candles does release hydrocarbons, the medical and scientific communities are divided on whether the tiny emissions significantly affect one's health.
It is worth noting that higher-quality candles tend to burn off very slowly, reducing the amount of particulate matter and chemicals emitted. However, the safest option is to follow candle safety guidelines and ensure proper ventilation to minimize any potential risks associated with candle burning.
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Burning candles release hydrocarbons, chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon
The wisp of smoke sometimes seen when a candle flickers is caused by unburned soot particles that have escaped from the flame due to incomplete combustion. Incomplete combustion also produces smoke that contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, acrolein, phenol, benzene, toluene, xylene, and hydrocarbons. These emissions have been identified as mutagenic and carcinogenic, and can cause acute irritative symptoms, especially in the throat and upper respiratory tract.
However, it is important to note that the small amount of these compounds released when burning a candle is generally not cause for concern unless you have certain health conditions. Dr. Sobia Farooq, a pulmonologist, states that while candle burning can contribute to poor indoor air quality, the available research does not indicate significant health risks when candles are burned in a well-ventilated space.
To minimize any potential risks, it is recommended to choose your candles wisely and burn them responsibly, and ensure proper ventilation in your space. Trimming the wick before lighting a candle can also help reduce the amount of black soot produced.
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Paraffin wax candles, made from petroleum by-products, can release acetone, benzene and toluene into the air
Paraffin wax is a by-product of the gas and oil refining process, and it is from this process that paraffin gains its potentially harmful properties. Paraffin wax candles are a leading cause of indoor air pollution, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Studies, including one from South Carolina State University, have shown that burning paraffin wax candles can release harmful chemicals into the air. These toxins include substances like benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde, which are linked to various health issues. Toluene, a colourless, water-insoluble liquid, is emitted from gasoline fumes, vehicle exhausts, and cigarette smoke. It is also used as a solvent in paint products, nail polish, lacquers, glue, and adhesives. The inhalation of toluene can cause damage to the central nervous system, resulting in headaches, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, fatigue, and loss of coordination, memory, and appetite.
Benzene is also a colourless liquid derived from natural gas and crude oil, and it too is used as a solvent. Benzene is a known carcinogen, with studies finding higher rates of leukaemia in workers exposed to high levels of benzene.
Despite these findings, the safety of paraffin wax candles has been supported by other studies, including one from the Journal of Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, which found that scented paraffin candles do not pose any health risks when used under normal conditions. The National Candle Association (NCA) has also contested the claim that paraffin candles are harmful, stating that no scientific study has ever shown any candle wax, including paraffin, to be harmful to human health.
To reduce potential risks, experts recommend proper candle etiquette, such as trimming the wick and ensuring good ventilation, as well as burning candles for shorter periods of time.
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Lower-quality candles emit more particulate matter and chemicals
While burning candles can contribute to poor indoor air quality, the emissions they generate are tiny and the medical and scientific community is divided over whether they can significantly affect your health.
Pulmonologist Dr. Sobia Farooq is not concerned about the impact of candles on people's health, as long as they are burned in a well-ventilated space. Dr. Farooq also notes that the candle industry is not well-regulated and that lower-quality candles emit more particulate matter and chemicals.
A 2013 study found that candles create an abundance of soot, which is not great for inhaling. Scented candles produce more soot than non-scented ones because of the way solid paraffin wax reacts with liquid fragrance oils at room temperature.
Paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct, and when burned, it can release acetone, benzene, and toluene into the air. These are all known Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that are carcinogenic. According to a study from South Carolina State University, paraffin wax can cause long-term harm. Dr. Ruhullah Massoudi, a chemistry professor, stated that "the paraffin candles we tested released unwanted chemicals into the air. For a person who lights a candle every day for years or just uses them frequently, inhalation of these dangerous pollutants drifting in the air could contribute to the development of health risks like cancer, common allergies, and even asthma."
However, dermatologist Ranella Hirsch stated that paraffin-wax candles, when used as directed, do not appear to be harmful when inhaled. To reduce any negative impacts on your health, it is recommended to limit the time you burn candles and opt for vegetable- and soy-based candles, which are healthier options.
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Burning candles for shorter periods of time and ventilating your house can reduce negative health impacts
Burning candles can release hydrocarbons, chemicals, and particulate matter into the air, which can negatively impact indoor air quality. However, the health risks associated with candle fumes are not yet fully understood, and there is conflicting evidence regarding the danger they pose.
Some sources suggest that burning candles for shorter periods of time and ventilating your home can help to mitigate any potential negative health impacts. Limiting candle burning time reduces the amount of soot, chemicals, and pollutants released into the air, which are known to decrease air quality. Proper ventilation disperses these particles, improving air quality and reducing potential health risks.
To further minimize risks, it is recommended to choose candles wisely. Soy-based, vegetable-based, and higher-quality candles are considered healthier options. Trimming candle wicks before lighting can also reduce the amount of black soot produced, improving air quality and reducing potential respiratory issues associated with inhaling candle fumes.
Additionally, ensuring adequate ventilation while burning candles is crucial. Opening windows or utilizing ventilation systems can help disperse the fumes and improve air circulation, reducing the concentration of potentially harmful particles.
While the occasional burning of candles for shorter periods may not cause significant harm, it is important to be mindful of the potential risks, especially for individuals with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory issues.
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Frequently asked questions
Candle smoke is not great for your health. Burning candles release hydrocarbons, chemicals, and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the air. These can include formaldehyde, alcohol, esters, and petroleum distillates, which can cause health issues. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and trouble breathing have been reported from the inhalation of these VOCs.
Soy- and vegetable-based candles are considered to be much healthier options. Dr. Ruhullah Massoudi, a chemistry professor at South Carolina State University, found that paraffin wax candles released unwanted chemicals into the air, whereas none of the vegetable-based candles produced toxic chemicals.
Electric candles are a great alternative to traditional candles. They are high on ambiance and low on health hazards.
Limit the time you burn candles and ensure your house is well-ventilated. Trim the wick before lighting to reduce the amount of black soot produced.
