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Why are candles thought to be dangerous? -

Safety concerns regarding candles are focused on the chemical reactions that occur as you burn them. Additionally, artificial fragrances and colorants included in candles might have added negative effects. 

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Which candle is considered the worst ? -

The most concerning candles are made from paraffin, a cheap byproduct sourced primarily from the refinement of petroleum.

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Information about paraffin -

Paraffin is the most-used candle wax in the world according to the National Candle Association.

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Factors that can impact your risk -

Various factors can impact your health when it comes to candles. Things like candle type and quality, how often and long you burn a candle, and the airflow in the space you're burning it, all make a difference.

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Candle science -

When a paraffin candle is burned, it releases volatile organic compounds known as VOCs. These are gases that easily and rapidly vaporize in the air at room temperature.

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Where are these compounds normally emitted? -

According to the American Lung Association, VOCs are normally emitted from paints, cleaning products, cosmetics, air fresheners, car exhaust, gas stoves, and more.

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Are VOCs harmful? -

Some VOCs are harmful as is, while others can react to other gases and form pollutants once they are in the air.

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What is toluene? -

A commonly emitted VOC from candles is known as toluene, which is a clear, colorless, vaporized liquid. It has a distinctive smell and occurs naturally in crude oil.

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Toluene -

Some regulatory agencies such as the US Environmental Protection Agency, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration consider toluene to be a toxin with established exposure limits. 

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Benzene -

Benzene is a known carcinogen and another VOC that is released by paraffin candles. Long-term exposure has been linked to blood disorders such as leukemia.

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Others -

Paraffin candles often contain and emit a carcinogenic VOC known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which contain benzene and formaldehyde. 

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Studies -

Numerous studies have looked at candle emissions under controlled settings including in homes and shown that burning candles can contribute to poor air quality and an increase in inhaling concerning chemicals.

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Can unlit candles be dangerous? -

According to one study, there is some evidence that even unlit candles might emit toxins when used indoors.

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Research -

Some studies find VOC levels from candles insignificant compared to unsafe thresholds, but others, like an April 2015 study, reported formaldehyde emissions from a strawberry-scented candle at 2,098 ppb—far exceeding the acceptable 0–400 ppb range.

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Other types of candles -

It's often considered healthier to have and burn candles made from soy wax, beeswax, or stearin (coconut oil or animal fats) however, anything burned emits harmful particulates and chemicals.

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Greater risk -

The risk of toxic emissions is increased when a candle is scented and/or dyed.

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Why? -

Artificial fragrances also have VOCs, including phthalates. Phthalates have been linked to learning and behavior problems, obesity, impaired development of the reproductive system, and much more.

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The National Candle Association -

The National Candle Association stands by its claims that candles are safe for use in the home and commonly cites a 2021 study of soy and paraffin candles.

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Conflicts of interest -

However, the research was conducted in collaboration with industry groups that included major candle and oil companies. Thus critics are skeptical of the impartiality of the study and its results.

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Candle labeling -

Currently, there are no regulations regarding the complete labeling of candles and their contents. This overall lack of oversight can mean that a candle with only a small percentage of soy can be labeled a "soy-based candle."

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Ways to safely scent your home: alternatives -

If you are determined to add scent to your home, consider using candles labeled as 100% soy wax, beeswax, or stearin wax. While this isn't a failproof solution, it should at least minimize exposure. 

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Wick material -

Make sure the wick is cotton, wood, or synthetic, and free from cores made of metals including lead or zinc. In countries like the US, Australia, and Denmark, lead wicks have been banned.

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Phthalate-free - Look for candles with essential oils or candles labeled as phthalate-free.

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Avoid dyed candles -

Extra dyes can be dangerous so always try and avoid them when possible. Choose white or clear candles versus those with added colors.

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Keep lids on candles when not using them -

Containing your candles with a lid when not using them will help keep toxins out of the air.

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Manufacturer’s website -

Labels on candles will often list the manufacturer’s website or provide contact information so you can learn more about the composition. Some components, such as fragrance, are considered trade secrets, so manufacturers may not disclose individual chemicals.

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Well-ventilated areas -

Burning a candle in a well-ventilated area helps reduce indoor pollution that results from Soot, VOCs, or smoke.

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Avoid lower-quality candles -

Lower-quality candles are usually the cheaper ones you might find at a store. They often use conventional waxes and fragrances that should be avoided.

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Extinguish candles that emit heavy black smoke -

Keeping wicks trimmed to 1/4 inch can help prevent heavy black smoke. Extinguish candles that emit heavy black smoke.

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Small doses -

If you do choose to burn scented candles, do so in small doses so you avoid headaches or respiratory system irritation.

Sources: (CNN Health) (National Library of Medicine)

See also: How often you should be replacing these household items

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