Jessie Taylor
Candles are widely used for decoration, ceremonies, and to release fragrances. However, candles can also release harmful chemicals into the air, even when they are not lit. These chemicals include formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene, which have been linked to various health issues such as cancer, respiratory problems, and neurological damage. Other toxins found in candles include phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors, and lead, which was historically used in candle wicks and can cause lead poisoning. To avoid these toxins, consumers are advised to choose candles made from natural materials such as beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax, and to avoid artificial fragrances and dyes.
Characteristics and associated values of chemicals in candles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Natural waxes | Coconut, soy, beeswax |
| Toxic waxes | Paraffin wax, gel wax |
| Toxins | Benzene, Formaldehyde, Toluene, Phthalates, Benzopyrene, Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) |
| Health risks | Allergies, Asthma, Skin problems, Respiratory issues, Endocrine problems, Reproductive harm |
| Wick materials | Cotton, Wood, Zinc, Tin, Lead (banned in the US in 2003) |
| Fragrances | Essential oils, Synthetic perfumes |
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What You'll Learn
Paraffin wax dangers
Paraffin wax is a common material used in candle-making. It is derived from petroleum, a by-product of gasoline production, and is often chosen by manufacturers due to its low cost. However, burning paraffin wax candles has been associated with several potential health risks.
Firstly, paraffin wax candles have been found to release hazardous chemicals into the air, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, and phthalates. These chemicals can pollute the indoor air and be inhaled, potentially causing short-term adverse effects such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and fatigue. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reported that even mild exposure to these chemicals can lead to frequent headaches.
Additionally, paraffin wax candles may emit carcinogenic chemicals. Studies have detected the presence of benzene and its derivatives, which are known cancer-causing agents. Exposure to benzene has been linked to increased rates of leukemia, particularly acute myeloid leukemia, in workers in certain industries. Toluene, another toxic chemical found in paraffin wax, can also have detrimental effects on health, including central nervous system damage.
The soot produced by burning paraffin wax candles can also be an issue. The black soot released can coat surfaces in the home and lead to indoor pollution. This soot, along with the hazardous chemicals emitted, has been compared to the exhaust fumes of a diesel engine. Furthermore, lab animals exposed to paraffin fumes have developed kidney tumors, indicating potential long-term health risks.
The use of paraffin wax candles with lead-core wicks has been a particular cause for concern. While lead wicks have been banned in many countries, imported candles may still contain lead. Exposure to lead from candle fumes can lead to lead poisoning, especially in children, and has been linked to behavioural problems and learning disabilities, and various health issues.
To minimize potential health risks, consumers are advised to opt for candles made from natural, plant-based waxes such as beeswax, soy wax, or palm stearin, which produce less soot and toxic chemicals. Proper ventilation and following candle handling guidelines, such as trimming the wick and using a candle snuffer, can also help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
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Lead-core wicks
Candles with lead-core wicks have been banned in the United States since 2003. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) voted to ban the sale, manufacture, and import of candles with lead wicks.
Lead-cored wicks emit large amounts of lead into the air during burning, which can be inhaled, particularly by children. This can cause hormone disruption, behavioural problems, learning disabilities, hearing problems, growth retardation, and numerous health problems. Even low-level exposure to lead poisoning can affect the central nervous system. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 74% of the candles purchased in the US today contain lead in their wick.
The CPSC found that some candles emitted lead levels in excess of 3,000 micrograms per hour—about seven times the rate that could lead to elevated lead levels in a child. The CPSC also estimated that an indoor air lead level of 430 micrograms per hour from burning candles could result in hazardous exposure for children.
To avoid lead wicks, look for a "lead-free" label when shopping for candles. You can also try the "No-Lead Test" by rubbing the tip of the wick on a piece of paper. If it leaves a grey mark, like a pencil, the wick contains a lead core. Candles made with clean plant-based wax generally use safe wicks that do not omit soot when burned.
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Natural alternatives
Burning candles can release chemicals that may be harmful to health. These include formaldehyde, aromatic hydrocarbons like toluene and benzopyrene, and benzene derivatives. Paraffin wax candles, in particular, are associated with these chemicals and can cause health issues such as headaches, shortness of breath, coughing, and even lipoid pneumonia.
To avoid these potential hazards, natural alternatives to traditional candles are available and recommended. Here are some detailed suggestions for natural candles:
Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles are a natural and renewable alternative to paraffin wax candles. They often have a pleasant aroma even without added scents. Beeswax candles provide a cleaner burn and produce fewer harmful byproducts. They are made from natural wax and can be scented with pure essential oils, providing a delightful aroma without synthetic fragrances.
Soy Candles
Soy candles are another excellent natural option. They produce less soot and toxic chemicals than paraffin candles, and soy wax burns cleaner and comes from renewable sources. Soy candles are also a good choice for minimizing particulate matter intake, as they release only half as much soot as paraffin candles.
Coconut Wax Candles
Coconut wax is a natural alternative to paraffin wax, offering a healthier and eco-friendly option. Coconut wax candles burn cleaner and produce fewer harmful byproducts, making them a good choice for a greener home ambiance.
Essential Oils
When choosing scented candles, opt for those fragranced with pure essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes. Essential oils are derived from plants and provide natural aromas without exposing you to toxic chemicals. They offer a safe and beneficial experience, especially for aromatherapy.
Natural Fibers
Look for candles with wicks made from natural fibers like cotton or wood. Avoid metal cores in wicks, as these can release harmful compounds into the air. Natural fiber wicks ensure a safe, clean burn and are a healthier option for your home.
Making these simple swaps to natural alternatives can help create a healthier and more eco-friendly environment without compromising on the enjoyment of candles.
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Synthetic fragrances
One of the primary concerns with synthetic fragrances in candles is the release of toxic chemicals. When burned, these fragrances can emit harmful pollutants, including formaldehyde, CO2, and VOCs. These chemicals can reach levels higher than background concentrations, contributing to indoor air pollution. The use of scented candles, especially in inadequately ventilated spaces, can increase the risk of exposure to these pollutants, which are known asthma and allergy triggers.
Petroleum is the source of 95% of the chemicals used in synthetic fragrances. These fragrances often contain derivatives of benzene, toluene, and other aromatic hydrocarbons. The burning of paraffin wax, a common candle material, can release these toxic chemicals, including benzene and toluene, which are known carcinogens. Exposure to benzene has been linked to potential health risks, including respiratory issues and neurological damage.
To avoid the potential hazards of synthetic fragrances, consumers can opt for candles made with natural fragrances or essential oils. Beeswax, soy wax, coconut wax, and vegetable-based waxes are recommended alternatives that burn cleaner and pose fewer health risks. These natural options often smell great even without added scents, and their plant-based nature makes them renewable and environmentally friendly.
Additionally, consumers should be cautious of strongly scented candles, as these are more likely to contain artificial and potentially toxic fragrance chemicals. Checking the labels for detailed ingredient lists and choosing candles with disclosed ingredients can help ensure a safer experience.
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Volatile organic compounds
Burning candles can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are potentially harmful chemicals that can easily become vapours or gases at room temperature. VOCs emitted from candles can originate from the wax, fragrance, and wicks, and they have been linked to various health issues. Common VOCs released by burning candles include benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde.
The release of VOCs from candles can negatively impact indoor air quality and potentially harm your health. In particular, exposure to VOCs from candles has been associated with headaches, shortness of breath, and coughing. Additionally, the use of scented candles in inadequately ventilated rooms may increase the chance of developing urothelial cancer.
To minimize the potential harm of VOCs from candles, it is recommended to choose candles made from natural waxes such as soy, beeswax, or coconut wax. These natural waxes generally produce fewer harmful emissions than candles made from paraffin wax. It is also advisable to avoid candles with synthetic fragrances and opt for those scented with natural essential oils.
Proper wick selection is also important to minimize VOC exposure. Metal-core wicks, for example, can release heavy metals when burned, so it is recommended to choose candles with cotton or wood wicks instead. Trimming the wick to about a quarter of an inch before lighting can also help reduce soot production and the release of VOCs.
Finally, ensuring that the room is well-ventilated while burning candles can help disperse any pollutants, including VOCs. By following these informed choices about the types of candles used and how they are burned, it is possible to maintain a fresh-smelling and healthier living environment.
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Frequently asked questions
Burning candles can release harmful chemicals, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and toluene, which are known carcinogens. These chemicals can cause respiratory issues and contribute to indoor air pollution. In addition, the particulate matter released from burning candles can enter your lungs and lead to heart and lung problems.
Candles made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining, are toxic. These candles release harmful chemicals when burned, including benzene and toluene. Candles with synthetic fragrances can also contain hidden toxins like phthalates, which are linked to hormone disruption and reproductive issues.
Yes, there are several non-toxic alternatives to paraffin wax candles, including beeswax, soy wax, coconut wax, and other plant-based waxes. These natural waxes burn at a lower temperature and come from renewable sources.
To avoid exposure to toxic chemicals in candles, choose candles made from natural waxes and scented with essential oils or other natural fragrances. Look for candles that are labelled as non-toxic and disclose all ingredients. Avoid candles with strong scents, as these are likely to contain artificial and potentially toxic fragrance chemicals.
