Tyler Brooks
Candles are commonly used to create a cosy atmosphere and fill a room with pleasant fragrances. However, many candles are made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining, which releases toxic chemicals when burned, including benzene and toluene, known carcinogens. Synthetic fragrances and dyes in scented candles also emit dangerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause headaches, respiratory issues, and even increase the risk of cancer. To avoid these toxins, consumers can opt for candles made from natural materials such as beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax, and scented with essential oils rather than artificial perfumes.
Characteristics and associated values of toxins in candles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types of toxins | Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene, formaldehyde, phthalates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, toluene, benzopyrene, naphthalene, anthracene, pyrene, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, soot, heavy metals |
| Health risks | Headaches, shortness of breath, coughing, eye irritation, nausea, liver damage, kidney damage, central nervous system damage, cancer, respiratory issues, allergies, asthma attacks, skin problems, endocrine problems, reproductive harm |
| Toxin sources | Petroleum-based wax, synthetic fragrances and dyes, lead-core wicks, metal-core wicks |
| Safer alternatives | Beeswax, soy wax, vegetable-based waxes, coconut wax, essential oils, flameless candles, wax melts |
| Regulatory actions | U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned lead-core wicks in 2003 |
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What You'll Learn
Paraffin wax candles emit harmful chemicals
Paraffin wax is a common material used in candle-making. It is derived from petroleum, a byproduct of gasoline production. When burned, paraffin wax releases harmful chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates.
VOCs are carbon compounds that easily turn into gas at room temperature. Some VOCs, like formaldehyde and benzene, are potentially cancer-causing. Exposure to VOCs can cause headaches, irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, nausea, and even damage to the liver, kidneys, or central nervous system.
A 2015 study by university researchers in South Korea found that scented candles release VOCs both before and while being lit. The study concluded that scented candles should be considered "potent sources of VOC emission in indoor environments."
In addition to VOCs, burning paraffin wax candles can also release soot and pollutants, including benzene derivatives such as toluene, a known carcinogen. While some claim that the amount of toxins released by paraffin wax candles is not enough to cause harm, others suggest that frequent use may lead to dangerous levels of pollutants drifting in the air.
To minimize the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals, it is recommended to choose candles made from natural materials such as beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes. These alternatives burn cleaner and promote better indoor air quality.
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Synthetic fragrances and dyes in candles
Candles are used for various purposes, including decoration, ceremonies, and aromatherapy. While candles contribute to a soothing atmosphere, some candles may be releasing harmful chemicals into the air.
Furthermore, synthetic fragrances are derived from various chemical structures and organic functions, including acids, alcohols, esters, aldehydes, acetals, nitrogen heterocycles, and more. These complex chemical structures can have unknown effects on human health.
To avoid the potential dangers of synthetic fragrances and dyes, it is recommended to choose candles made from natural materials such as beeswax or soy wax. These natural candles can be scented with essential oils instead of synthetic perfumes to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants.
Additionally, proper ventilation is crucial when burning any type of candle. Ensuring adequate airflow can help reduce the concentration of harmful chemicals and minimize potential health risks.
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Lead wicks can cause lead poisoning
Candles are used for various purposes, including decoration, ceremonies, and aromatherapy. While candles are a great way to set the mood, certain types of candles can be harmful to health. Candles with lead wicks, for instance, can cause lead poisoning.
The Risk of Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning is a serious health risk, especially for children. Even small amounts of lead exposure can cause IQ loss, learning difficulties, behavioural problems, hearing problems, and growth retardation. Lead poisoning in pregnant women can result in miscarriage and damage to the fetus' developing brain and nervous system.
How Lead Wicks Contribute to Lead Poisoning
Candles with lead-cored wicks can emit large amounts of lead into the air during burning. This lead can then be inhaled, especially by children. Additionally, children may be exposed to lead by mouthing objects that have been contaminated with lead or by handling such objects and then putting their hands in their mouths.
Regulations and Bans
Due to the risks associated with lead-cored wicks, many countries have implemented regulations and bans to protect consumers. In 2003, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) banned the sale, manufacture, and import of candles with lead wicks. Australia also banned lead-wicked candles in 1999. These bans were implemented to prevent the potential health hazards associated with lead exposure, especially in vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.
Alternatives to Lead-Cored Wicks
To avoid the risks associated with lead-cored wicks, consumers can opt for candles made from natural materials such as beeswax or soy wax. These candles are often scented with essential oils instead of synthetic perfumes, reducing the exposure to pollutants. It is also recommended to air out the room after burning candles to get rid of any chemical compounds that may have been produced during burning.
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Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in scented candles
Burning candles release chemicals, and while many articles on the internet explain the dangers of burning candles, they often use inconclusive or no evidence to support their claims.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are carbon compounds that easily turn into gas at room temperature. Some VOCs occur naturally in flowers to produce a sweet aroma. However, other VOCs, like formaldehyde and benzene, are potentially cancer-causing. VOCs are regularly released from car exhaust, factory pollution, and anything else that burns fossil fuels.
A 2015 study by university-affiliated researchers in South Korea found that scented candles release VOCs both before and after being lit. The study concluded that scented candles "should act as potent sources of VOC emission in indoor environments."
Burning scented candles can release VOCs like formaldehyde, which may increase cancer risk. However, it is important to note that they release less than half of the recommended amounts set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
If you are worried about the potential negative health effects of burning candles, you can try using candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes. These candles are natural, renewable, and often smell great even without added scents.
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Safer alternatives to toxic candles
Candles are often lit to create a soothing and tranquil ambiance, but the wrong ones can have the opposite effect, filling your home with harmful chemicals and air pollution.
The biggest issue with candles is petroleum-based wax, which is a by-product of gasoline production. Burning paraffin wax, for example, releases potentially dangerous chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates. People exposed to these chemicals have reported headaches, shortness of breath, coughing, and irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat.
So, what are the safer alternatives?
Beeswax
Beeswax candles are a natural and renewable option, often smelling great even without added scents. They burn cleaner, purify the air, and have a longer burn time compared to other natural waxes.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is another popular alternative, although it has been criticized for greenwashing. Soybeans are highly pesticide-controlled crops, and the process of turning them into wax involves chemicals. Nevertheless, soy wax candles still burn cleaner than paraffin and produce fewer harmful byproducts.
Coconut Wax
Coconut wax is another natural option that provides a cleaner burn and delightful aromas.
Vegetable-Based Waxes
Vegetable-based waxes are becoming more common and are a great substitute for paraffin or gel wax. They burn at a lower temperature, meaning they last longer and come from renewable sources.
When choosing candles, opt for those manufactured from natural materials and scented with essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes. Look for brands that use 100% essential oils and incorporate sustainable materials.
Remember, even with non-toxic candles, it's important to ensure proper ventilation when burning them to avoid any potential health risks associated with indoor air pollution.
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Frequently asked questions
Many candles are made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining. When burned, paraffin wax releases toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like benzene and formaldehyde.
Historically, candles with lead-core wicks were common, but these were banned in 2003 due to the risk of lead poisoning. However, wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles.
Yes, there are several non-toxic alternatives to traditional candles. Beeswax, soy wax, coconut wax, and other plant-based waxes are safer options that burn cleaner and longer than paraffin without releasing harmful toxins.
