Like many people, I love to burn scented candles in my home.
In fact, they’d become a part of my wellness practices. When I’d take a relaxing bath, I always lit a candle or two to create a spa-like atmosphere…
When I’d ready myself for a little mindful meditation, lighting a candle in my quiet space was part of a routine that helped me clear my mind.
And during certain times of the year, especially holidays, candles just help set the mood.
That’s why I was surprised to learn that something I was doing to create positive feelings in my home presented some significant health hazards.
Here are the health dangers you need to be aware of, as well as a few simple tips to decrease your risks…
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The problem with candles
Common issues people experience due to candle use include everything from vertigo, headaches and respiratory issues to watery eyes, sneezing, stuffy nose, chest tightness and a dry or irritated throat.
However, those might actually be the least of your worries…
According to researchers reporting in the Annals of Medicine & Surgery, “When scented candles are lit indoors, several harmful gasses are released. They range greatly, from those known to have no effect on health except for those that may be cancerous.”
These gases can contain:
- Carbon monoxide or nitrogen oxide – These increase levels of indoor air pollution, lowering the quality of air you breathe.
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) – Compounds like benzene, formaldehyde, naphthalene, anthracene and pyrene have been found in candles and are well-known carcinogens.
- Phthalates or endocrine disruptors – These significantly impact hormone levels and worsen allergy and asthma symptoms. Phthalates are specifically found in scented candles because they are used to make synthetic fragrances to give the candles their aromas.
- Particulate matter – When candles are burned, a mix of solid and liquid particles (or soot) is formed. Unfortunately, these particles are so tiny that when you breathe, they are capable of entering deep into your lungs, where they are swept into your bloodstream. This could raise your chances of not only respiratory issues such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma but also lung and other cancers.
Additionally, the toluene derivatives and benzidine-based dyes that are used to color many candle waxes can lead to their own dangers, since they have been associated with urothelial cancer development — a type of cancer that mainly attacks the bladder and kidneys.
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Tips for safer candle use
So, how can enjoy burning candles in your home more safely?
First, it’s important to note that the National Candle Association recommends following the candle manufacturer’s instructions for ideal burn time, while not exceeding four hours of candle use per day.
Also, only burn candles in a well-ventilated space and limit the number you burn at the same time. This matters because most candles are made with paraffin wax which produces more VOCs and soot compared to natural waxes such as soy or beeswax. So, choose candles made from these natural materials if you can.
Some experts suggest candles scented with essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes to minimize your phthalate exposure; however, highly concentrated and potent essential oils can emit VOCs.
Reducing soot exposure can also help. Easy ways to do this include:
- Trimming candle wicks to one-fourth of an inch.
- Removing debris around the wick.
- Snuffing out candles before they begin to smolder.
- Never place candles near fans, air conditioners or open windows where air movement interferes with the candle’s oxygen supply.
Finally, after putting out scented candles, air out the room to get rid of the chemical compounds produced while burning.
And because it never hurts to do everything you can to rid your body of all of the harmful toxins that you’re exposed to on a daily basis (including the chemicals from candles), check out these five ways to detox daily without a diet.
Sources:
The unknown risks of scented candles! what science has to say: an editorial — NIH
The Dirty Truth About Scented Candles — MEDPAGETODAY