Are Scented Candles Bad for You?
Scented candles are a common household favorite, known for their soothing ambiance and pleasant aromas. However, there’s been some debate about whether they pose health risks. Let’s break down what goes into scented candles and assess whether they’re harmful and find out where can you get scented candles that are good for you, as well as the environment.
Components of Scented Candles:
Scented candles are made using different materials such as wax, wicks, fragrance oils, and sometimes dyes. Common wax types include paraffin, soy, beeswax, and palm wax. Wicks are usually cotton-based, while fragrance oils are added for the scent, and dyes for appearance.
Paraffin Wax Concerns:
Paraffin wax is one of the most widely used in candles because it’s cheap and easy to mould. However, paraffin is a petroleum byproduct, and burning it can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. These are known to be carcinogenic.
Although exposure to these compounds from burning paraffin candles is generally minimal, some research suggests it could contribute to respiratory issues over time, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces. Still, occasional use, especially with proper ventilation, is not likely to be harmful.
Natural Wax Alternatives: Soy, Beeswax, and Palm Wax
In response to concerns over paraffin, many candle brands now offer alternatives like soy, beeswax, and palm wax. These waxes come from natural sources and are generally considered safer.
Soy Wax: Derived from soybeans, this wax burns cleaner and longer than paraffin, emitting little to no soot.
Beeswax: Beeswax is another natural option. It not only burns clean but also releases negative ions, which can help neutralize pollutants in the air.
Palm Wax: Palm wax is biodegradable and burns cleanly, though its use is sometimes questioned due to environmental concerns surrounding palm oil production.
Fragrances and Their Effects:
Fragrance oils used in scented candles can be synthetic or natural. Synthetic fragrances sometimes contain chemicals like phthalates, which have been linked to hormone disruption in some studies. However, many reputable candle brands now use phthalate-free fragrance oils.
Those with sensitivities may experience allergic reactions, headaches, or respiratory irritation from strong synthetic scents. If you have allergies or asthma, it’s better to opt for candles made with essential oils or fragrance-free candles.
Wick Materials:
Older candles used wicks with metal cores (sometimes lead), but these have been banned in many countries due to lead exposure risks. Today, most wicks are cotton-based, which burn clean and safe. To avoid concerns, always buy candles from trusted brands that adhere to safety standards.
Are Scented Candles Bad for You?
While there’s some risk associated with paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances, scented candles, when used sparingly and in ventilated spaces, aren’t likely to cause major health problems. Opting for natural waxes like soy, beeswax, and phthalate-free fragrances can further reduce any potential risks. In moderation, scented candles are safe for everyday use.
