Ben Carter
Candles are a common household item, but for some people, they can be a source of allergies. Candle allergies can cause a range of symptoms, including sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. The main cause of candle allergies is often the fragrance used in the candle, with synthetic fragrances containing phthalates that can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin, exacerbating allergic symptoms and triggering asthma. In addition to fragrances, burning candles can release toxic compounds known as VOCs, which have been associated with health risks, particularly in regions where candle usage is high, such as Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries. To minimize allergic reactions, hypoallergenic candles made from natural waxes like beeswax or soy, and with natural wicks such as cotton, are recommended.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Symptoms | Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, skin rashes, itchy throat, watery eyes, dizziness, headaches, coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, nasal allergy, migraine headaches, asthma attacks, dermatitis, allergic rhinitis |
| Cause | Fragrances, toxic compounds (VOCs), phthalates |
| Treatment | Nasal antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid medications, hypoallergenic candles, natural cleaners |
| Hypoallergenic candles | Beeswax, soy wax, cotton wicks, unscented, natural wax, food-grade white wax |
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What You'll Learn
Fragrances
The synthetic fragrances used in candles often contain phthalates, which are released into the air when the candle burns. Phthalates can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin and have been linked to exacerbated allergic symptoms, asthma, and altered hormone levels. Studies have found an association between fragrance products and health issues such as headaches, coughing, shortness of breath, migraines, asthma attacks, dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis.
To avoid fragrance allergies from candles, it is recommended to choose candles made with natural ingredients and scented by plant-based extracts rather than synthetic fragrances. Beeswax and soy candles are natural alternatives to paraffin candles, which can contain harmful chemicals. Aromatherapy candles scented with essential oils are also allergy-friendly options.
Additionally, choosing candles with natural wicks, such as cotton wicks, can help reduce the risk of allergies. Unscented candles are another option for those sensitive to fragrances. By selecting hypoallergenic candles and avoiding artificial colours and fragrances, individuals with candle allergies can minimise their exposure to allergens and continue enjoying the ambiance and warmth that candles bring to their living spaces.
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Paraffin
Symptoms of a paraffin candle allergy may include respiratory congestion, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, headaches, and rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms when burning paraffin candles, it is advisable to switch to alternative types of candles or consult a doctor for advice.
To avoid potential allergies, it is recommended to choose candles that are paraffin-free and made from natural waxes such as beeswax or soy wax. These natural wax candles often have cotton wicks and are fragranced with essential oils or plant-based extracts, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
Additionally, ensuring proper ventilation when burning any type of candle can help minimize the concentration of VOCs in the air and reduce the potential for adverse health effects. It is also advisable to keep wicks trimmed to reduce soot and smoke emissions, which can also be irritating to the respiratory system.
Overall, while paraffin candles may be convenient and widely available, they can pose health risks for individuals with allergies or respiratory sensitivities. By opting for natural, hypoallergenic alternatives and ensuring adequate ventilation, individuals can enjoy candles while minimizing potential health risks.
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Soy
People with candle allergies may experience symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. The main cause of candle allergies is fragrance, and candles can also release toxic compounds known as VOCs when burned.
That being said, there have been some reports of people experiencing allergic reactions to soy candles. For example, one person with a severe soy allergy noted that they experienced headaches and difficulty breathing when exposed to the scent of soy candles, even when unlit. Another individual with a soy allergy mentioned that burning soy candles caused their lungs to burn, their skin to turn red, and their body to swell up. However, these cases appear to be rare, and it is unclear whether the reactions were specifically caused by the soy wax or other potential allergens in the candles, such as fragrances or other additives.
If you suspect that you may be allergic to soy candles, it is recommended to consult with a medical professional and consider switching to alternative candle options, such as beeswax candles, which are naturally hypoallergenic and do not contain any added fragrances or synthetic ingredients. Additionally, when choosing any type of candle, opt for those with natural wicks made from cotton, as metal-core wicks may contain lead.
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Beeswax
When purchasing beeswax candles, it is important to look for 100% pure beeswax to avoid toxic paraffin. Beeswax candles can be more expensive than paraffin candles, but they are a health investment. Some companies that sell 100% pure beeswax candles include Golden Light Beeswax Candles and Big Dipper Wax Works.
In addition to their allergy-friendly and air-purifying properties, beeswax candles have a high melting point, making them more resistant to melting in warm conditions. They also come in a variety of colours, from natural shades of pale yellow to deep golden, as well as colours created with natural dyes. To optimise burning, it is recommended to trim the cotton wick to about 1/4 inch before each use.
Overall, beeswax candles are a natural, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic option that can help reduce allergies and asthma symptoms while providing a pleasant ambiance.
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Allergy symptoms
Allergic reactions to candles are rare but can be unpleasant. Candle allergies can cause both skin and breathing problems. Symptoms of candle allergies include sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, skin rashes, headaches, an itchy throat, watery eyes, and dizziness.
If you are experiencing allergy symptoms, it is important to identify the cause. The most common cause of candle allergies is fragrances. However, candles can also release toxic compounds, known as VOCs, into the air when burned. These compounds can trigger allergies, even if you are not allergic to the fragrance.
If you are allergic to fragrances, it is best to avoid scented candles altogether. Instead, opt for fragrance-free candles or those scented with natural essential oils. Cinnamon, vanilla, and certain flowers are common irritants, so it is best to avoid these fragrances if you have fragrance allergies.
Another common cause of candle allergies is the type of wax used. Paraffin wax is a common irritant and can be found in low-quality candles. Soy wax is a good alternative, as it produces less smoke and is less likely to trigger allergies. Beeswax candles are also a good option, as they are free of many of the chemicals found in paraffin wax and burn brighter and longer.
To further reduce the risk of allergies, choose candles with natural cotton wicks. Metal wicks can contain lead, which can be harmful. Keeping the wick trimmed will also help to reduce smoke and soot, which can irritate allergies.
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Frequently asked questions
Symptoms of candle allergies include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, skin rashes, headaches, itchy throat, watery eyes, dizziness, and coughing.
People can be allergic to the synthetic fragrances used in candles, which can contain phthalates. These fragrances can also be found in cleaning products, deodorants, scents of laundry products, and air fresheners.
Hypoallergenic candles are typically made with natural ingredients, such as beeswax or soy wax, and have a cotton wick. They are free of artificial colors and synthetic fragrances, which can trigger allergies.
