Chloe Adams
Candles are made of hydrocarbons, which are chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon. When a candle burns, these compounds are released into the air as water vapour and carbon dioxide. While burning candles does not pose a significant health risk, it can contribute to poor indoor air quality. The release of certain harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, benzene, and toluene, can be detrimental to health. The type of candle also matters; cheaper candles may contain more volatile organic carbons, while scented candles can release chemicals from synthetic perfumes and dyes.
| Characteristics | Values | |
|---|---|---|
| Burning candles release hydrocarbons | Hydrocarbons | Hydrogen and carbon atoms |
| Burning candles release harmful gases | Carbon dioxide, water vapour, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, benzene, toluene, acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, nitrogen oxides, and fragrance chemicals | |
| Burning candles are bad for health | Exposure to harmful gases can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, irritation to eyes, nose, throat, and skin, headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety | |
| Burning candles are good for health | Fire is foundational to human life, and a 2014 study in Evolutionary Psychology found that even looking at a recording of a hearth or campfire can induce physical and mental relaxation | |
| Candle wax made from | Petroleum-derived wax, beeswax, soy wax, vegetable-based waxes, paraffin wax, animal fat, plants, insects, seeds, and nuts | |
| Candle dyes made from | Benzidine | |
| Candle scents made from | Synthetic perfumes, essential oils |
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What You'll Learn
The therapeutic benefits of candles outweigh the health risks
However, burning candles releases hydrocarbons, chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon, into the air. In particular, they release trace amounts of toluene and benzene. Toluene is commonly used in paint thinners and adhesives, and exposure without proper ventilation can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat, and skin, as well as 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. While the amount of benzene exposure from burning candles is minimal compared to smoking, it is a known carcinogen.
Despite these concerns, the therapeutic benefits of candles can outweigh the health risks when they are used appropriately. Firstly, it is important to choose candles wisely and burn them responsibly. Opt for candles made from natural ingredients such as beeswax, soy wax, or vegetable-based waxes, and avoid cheaper candles with more volatile organic carbons. Avoid burning candles with synthetic perfumes and dyes, as these can release harmful chemicals when burned. Instead, choose candles scented with essential oils. Ensure proper ventilation when burning candles to allow gases to dissipate, and limit burning time to prevent the buildup of particulates. Keep wicks trimmed to reduce soot production, and avoid old or damaged candles that may release more benzene.
By following these precautions, the benefits of candles can be enjoyed while minimizing potential health risks. Candles can create a tranquil and soothing atmosphere, promoting relaxation and alleviating psychological discomfort. They can also improve air quality by releasing negative ions that neutralize pollutants, and they can even help reduce odours and purify the air. With the right candle choices and burning practices, the therapeutic advantages of candles can be safely experienced.
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Lower-quality candles may emit more toxins
While burning candles releases hydrocarbons, it does not pose a significant health risk. However, lower-quality candles may emit more toxins.
Cheaper candles may have more formaldehyde-generating materials and a lower melting point. It has been suggested that these candles are more dangerous because they contain more volatile organic carbons. In addition, scented candles may contain dyes and artificial scents that, when burned, release a variety of chemicals. Petroleum is the source of 95% of the chemicals used in synthetic perfumes and scented candles, and it contains benzene derivatives. Candle waxes are often coloured using toluene derivatives and benzidine-based dyes, which have been associated with urothelial cancer development.
The major emissions from paraffin wax candles include carbon dioxide, water vapour, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, benzene, toluene, acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, nitrogen oxides, and any scent chemicals. While paraffin candles release a mix of gases, the amounts generated through occasional use are generally not acutely toxic. However, reducing exposure is smart for better indoor air quality.
Burning candles can release harmful gases, including combustion gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide, which can contaminate the interior environment. Frequent consumption of scented candles, especially in inadequately ventilated rooms, may increase the chance of developing urothelial cancer. Additionally, scented candles are widely available with low-quality and undefined raw materials.
To minimize the risks associated with burning candles, it is recommended to choose candles manufactured from natural materials, such as beeswax or soy wax, and scented with essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes. After using scented candles, it is important to air out the space to get rid of the chemical compounds produced during burning.
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Burning candles releases hydrocarbons
The major emissions from paraffin wax candles include carbon dioxide, water vapour, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, benzene, toluene, acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, nitrogen oxides and any scent chemicals. While paraffin is inexpensive and easy to use in candles, the petroleum-derived wax produces emissions that may degrade indoor air quality.
The small amounts of hydrocarbons released when burning a candle are generally not a cause for concern. However, without proper ventilation, exposure to toluene can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and skin, and cause headaches, dizziness, confusion and anxiety. Benzene is a known carcinogen, increasing the risk of leukaemia and other blood cancers, but the vast majority of exposure occurs through smoking.
To reduce exposure to candle emissions, it is recommended to ventilate rooms well when burning candles, limit burning time, keep wicks trimmed, and avoid old or damaged candles. It is also suggested to opt for candles made from natural ingredients such as beeswax, soy or other plant-based waxes, rather than paraffin or artificial materials.
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Candles can worsen indoor air quality
Burning candles releases hydrogen and carbon into the air in the form of water vapour and carbon dioxide. While these gases are not inherently dangerous, they can contribute to poor indoor air quality if a room is not properly ventilated.
Candles also release trace amounts of other chemicals, including toluene and benzene. Exposure to toluene can cause eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation, as well as headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety. Benzene is a known carcinogen, increasing the risk of leukaemia and other blood cancers. While the amounts of these chemicals released by candles are small, they can still be a cause for concern in certain situations, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces.
In addition, candles can release unburned carbon particles (soot) if the flame gets too little or too much air or fuel, causing it to flicker or flare. These particles contribute to smoke and soot and can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory issues with constant exposure.
Scented candles, in particular, have been associated with various health complaints, including vertigo, headaches, mucosa irritation, respiratory issues, watery eyes, sneezing, stuffy nose, chest tightness, and throat irritation. They also release chemicals such as formaldehyde, benzene derivatives, and fragrance chemicals, which can be dangerous when inhaled.
To minimise the impact of candles on indoor air quality, it is recommended to ventilate rooms well when burning candles, limit burning time, keep wicks trimmed, and opt for candles made from natural ingredients such as beeswax or soy wax.
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The health impact of candles is not fully understood
While the amounts of these compounds released by candles are relatively small, the impact of long-term exposure is not well understood. Additionally, the incomplete combustion of candles can result in the release of carbon monoxide and particulate matter, which can contribute to poor indoor air quality and health complaints. Some candles, particularly cheaper scented ones, may also release higher levels of pollutants, including formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and nitrogen oxides. These emissions can be problematic for individuals with respiratory illnesses or specific sensitizations.
To minimize potential health risks, it is recommended to choose candles made from natural materials, such as beeswax or soy wax, and to ensure proper ventilation when burning candles. Limiting burning time and keeping wicks trimmed can also help reduce the buildup of particulates. While the health impact of candles may not be fully understood, taking these simple precautions can help reduce exposure to potentially harmful compounds.
It is worth noting that candles have been used for thousands of years, providing light, heat, and a sense of relaxation. The fire and light from a candle have been found to induce physical and mental relaxation, which may explain their popularity in religious traditions and mindfulness practices. However, with the growing awareness of indoor air quality and health concerns, it is important to burn candles responsibly and be mindful of the potential risks associated with their use.
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Frequently asked questions
Burning candles releases hydrocarbons into the air, which are chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon. This results in poor air quality. However, the impact of candles on health is debated within the medical and scientific community.
Hydrocarbons are compounds that contain hydrogen and carbon atoms. They are released into the air when candles are burned.
Burning candles can emit carbon monoxide, which is a colourless, odourless, and harmful gas. It can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, which affects almost 50,000 people every year.
To reduce the risks, ensure your space is well-ventilated and avoid burning candles in enclosed spaces. You should also choose high-quality candles with pure cotton or paper wicks, and keep wicks trimmed to prevent erratic flames and increased soot production.
