Do scented candles cause cancer? Or are these claims about toxins and air quality an attempt to keep scented candle lovers away from their favorite indulgence? The truth lies somewhere in the middle. While some candles may release small amounts of potentially harmful substances, the actual risk depends on factors like the type of wax, fragrance, and how often you burn them. Let's dive into the science and separate fact from fiction.
Do scented candles cause cancer? 5 Science studies to know
So far, all scientific research about scented candles and their associated risks points to the dangers of inferior materials and poisonous chemicals in some scented candles. This means the real issue isn't scented candles as a whole. Here are some scientific studies and their conclusions.
Study on paraffin wax and air quality (2009)
Researchers Amid Hamidi, Ph.D., and R. Massoudi, Ph.D., shared some eye-opening findings at the American Chemical Society’s 238th national meeting. They studied how paraffin wax, a common ingredient in many scented candles, affects indoor air quality. Their research revealed that burning paraffin candles releases soot and harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene, both considered carcinogens that could lead to cancer if inhaled in high amounts over a long time.
They concluded that proper ventilation can significantly reduce these risks. Hamidi explains, ''Lighting a paraffin candle now and then isn’t a big deal. But if you're burning several paraffin candles every day for years, or using them in small, unventilated spaces like a bathroom, you might run into issues.''
Fragrance chemicals and respiratory health (2023)
This study looked at how often young university students use scented candles and how it affects their health. It found that scented candles are very popular, especially among female students in Saudi Arabia. About 24.8% of the students said they had health problems after using them. Students who used scented candles for more than 60 minutes had issues like headaches, sneezing, and wheezing.
Lead wicks and toxic fumes (2003)
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) studied candle wicks after getting complaints and requests from housing groups. They found that candles with lead-core wicks release lead into the air as they burn. This lead can be breathed in. The study showed that if children are exposed to candles releasing 430 micrograms of lead per hour, it could raise their blood lead levels to unhealthy amounts. The CPSC concluded that burning candles with lead-core wicks could cause serious health problems for people who breathe in the lead-filled air.
The unknown risks of scented candles
A study published in the National Library of Medicine took a closer look at the chemicals scented candles release into the air. It revealed that about 95% of the stuff used in synthetic perfumes and scented candles comes from petroleum, which includes harmful benzene derivatives. To make things worse, many candle waxes still get their color from dyes linked to urothelial cancer, like toluene and benzidine-based dyes. Therefore, burning such scented candles over a long period, especially in rooms with poor ventilation, increases your risk of developing this type of cancer.
The danger of synthetic fragrance in scented candles
A study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that exposure to synthetic musks, commonly used in fragrances, may be linked to potential toxic effects in humans, such as liver toxicity and breast cancer cell growth.
Ingredients of scented candles
Each part of a scented candle, from the wax to the wick and fragrance, works together to create the perfect candle experience. The wax is the base that holds everything together, the wick can make or break your candle and the fragrance gives the candle its signature smell. Here is a detailed look into their function.
Fragrance oils
Fragrance oils give candles their lovely scents. They are typically synthetic or natural blends from essential oils, aromatic chemicals, and solvents. Their job is simple: to release delightful smells when the candle burns. Without them, your lavender candle wouldn't smell like lavender.
Soy wax
Soy wax is a natural, renewable material made from soybean oil. Many eco-conscious candle brands use it as their primary material for scented candles because of its clean-burning properties. It holds and releases fragrances effectively and burns slower than paraffin wax.
Wick stabilizers
Wick stabilizers help the wick in your candle burn consistently and not flop over. These chemicals strengthen the wick so it burns at the right pace and lasts longer.
Are scented candles dangerous?
Not necessarily. The only dangerous scented candles are those with toxic benzene and toluene.
Toluene is a neurotoxin with established exposure limits by some regulatory agencies, including the US Environmental Protection Agency, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. It is also associated with dizziness, headaches, or more serious effects at prolonged exposures.
Benzene is another VOC released by paraffin candles. Long-term exposure to this chemical has been linked to blood disorders such as leukemia. When inhaled, benzene can also be a respiratory irritant.
Make it a habit to read labels and cross-check the ingredients of the candle brands you buy. But, beware of some unscrupulous candle brands would go to great lengths to hide poisonous ingredients, misrepresent them, or lie about them. To stay safe from these potentially toxic candles, choose Stān dle. Our candles are toxin-free and crafted with the utmost care for your health and the well-being of your loved ones.
Are some scented candles better than others?
Yes, some scented candles are better than others. Some fill your space with a lovely fragrance and burn cleanly, while others release unwanted toxins into the air. It's all about the ingredients. Learning more helps you distinguish the best-scented candles from the mediocre ones. This way, you receive the most value for your money. Keep note of these things.
Ingredients matter
High-quality candles are made with safe, clean-burning materials like natural soy wax, beeswax, or coconut wax. These are eco-friendly and don't release harmful chemicals. On the contrary, cheaper candles often use paraffin wax, which can emit toxins like benzene and toluene when burned.
Fragrance quality
Premium-scented candles use high-quality fragrances and essential oils for a more natural aroma. Low-quality candles might use synthetic fragrances with chemicals that could irritate your lungs or trigger allergies.
Wick design
The wick impacts how evenly a candle burns. High-end candles often have lead-free cotton or wooden wicks to ensure clean burning. Cheaper candles might have poorly designed wicks that cause uneven melting or produce excessive soot.
Burn time
The best candles burn longer and more evenly. They may cost more upfront but last longer.
Toxin-free promise
Cheap isn't always better with health and wellness products. Therefore, invest in a trusted brand like Stān dle that prioritizes safety and quality. Our candles are free from harmful toxins like phthalates, parabens, and heavy metals. Cheaper brands may cut corners, potentially putting your health at risk.
Are scented candles toxic?
Well, it depends. Some scented candles can be toxic due to the materials used in their production. Candles made with paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct, release harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene when burned. These substances are known carcinogens that, with prolonged exposure, may increase your risk of cancer.
Additionally, synthetic fragrances in cheaper candles often contain phthalates, chemicals linked to hormone disruption and respiratory issues. When these candles burn, they can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that pollute indoor air and cause headaches, dizziness, or allergic reactions.
Candle toxicity also depends on the wick. Poor-quality candles use wicks containing lead or zinc, which release toxic fumes when burned. Even the soot from these candles can carry harmful particles that settle on surfaces and get inhaled over time. These factors, when combined, make some scented candles more dangerous than others.
xStān dle candles, however, are a different story. Thanks to our use of high-quality wicks made from natural materials like cotton, our candles don’t release harmful bags when burned. These wicks burn cleanly, without releasing toxic fumes, ensuring your air stays fresh. Stān dle also uses only natural, sweet-smelling fragrances for all our candles.
Tips for the safe use of scented candles
Scented candles are great for setting the mood, relaxing, or freshening your space. But, you must take a few simple precautions to avoid unwanted accidents and limit exposure to fumes and smoke. Here are a couple of guidelines.
Choose high-quality, non-toxic candles like Stān dle candles
Not all candles are created equal. High-quality options, like Stān dle candles, are made with safe, clean-burning ingredients such as natural waxes and lead-free wicks. These candles are free from harmful toxins like phthalates or paraffin-based chemicals to create a healthier and more enjoyable experience.
Avoid burning candles in poorly ventilated spaces.
Burning candles in closed spaces, like small rooms or bathrooms, can cause a buildup of harmful fumes, especially if the candles aren’t made with non-toxic ingredients. Always burn candles in well-ventilated living rooms or kitchens to keep your living area safe. This will help keep the air fresh and reduce exposure to potential toxins.
Limit burn times to reduce exposure to fumes
While it is tempting to let your favorite candle burn all evening, keep burn times under 3–4 hours. Overburning causes excess soot and releases more fumes into the air. Limiting burn time also helps maintain air quality and ensures your candles last longer.
Follow burning guidelines
Trimming your wick to 1/4 inch before lighting is key to preventing excessive smoke and soot. Allow the wax to melt evenly across the surface to avoid tunneling. Also, stop using the candle when 1/2 inch of wax is left to prevent the container from overheating.
Keep away from flammable items.
Never place candles near curtains, papers, or anything that could catch fire. Your candle must be on a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from drafts or areas where it could be accidentally knocked over.
Never leave a candle unattended.
This is the most crucial tip; never leave a burning candle alone. Always extinguish it when you leave the room or go to bed. Use a snuffer instead of blowing it out to avoid hot wax splatters.
Store and dispose properly.
Store your candles in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat, which can warp the wax or degrade the fragrance. Once finished, dispose of the leftover wax and container responsibly. Don't pour melted wax down the drain.
Conclusion
So, do scented candles cause cancer? Yes, if they contain chemicals and poisonous materials like lead and give off toxins like Benzene and Toluene when burned. But no, when you choose safer options like Stān dle candles. Stān dle candles are high quality, toxin-free, and lead-free.
Our advice is to be picky about the candles you bring into your space. Burn them in well-ventilated areas, limit their use, and follow safety tips to enjoy the warmth and scent without worry.
Check out Stān dle candles for a clean, toxin-free experience that smells amazing.
FAQs
- Do scented candles cause cancer when used occasionally?
If you burn candles occasionally, there's no need to panic. It's unlikely to cause cancer, especially with a good-quality candle. The problem comes with low-quality candles made from paraffin wax or loaded with synthetic chemicals.
Stān dle candles are your safe bet because they're made with natural waxes and clean, non-toxic ingredients. You can relax and enjoy the glow without worrying about harmful effects.
- Are there safe scented candles for daily use?
Absolutely. The trick is choosing candles made with safe, natural materials. Stān dle candles are perfect for everyday use because of their toxin-free wax and phthalate-free fragrances. They're clean-burning and gentle on your indoor air, so you can enjoy them daily without a second thought.
- How do I know if my candles contain harmful chemicals?
You can start by reading the labels and researching the ingredients you find. But with Stān dle, you never have to guess or question anything. We use high-quality natural waxes and safe fragrances, so you can trust our candles to be as good for your home as they are for your mood.
- Are candle wicks made of lead?
Although lead wicks are a thing of the past, some cheap brands still use them. Stān dle candles use only lead-free, eco-friendly wicks for a clean and safe burn.
- Should certain people avoid scented candles, and if so, why?
Scented candles are toxic for people with asthma, allergies, or sensitivity to strong smells because the fragrance can trigger their symptoms. The better alternative is Stān dl's natural, gentle fragrant candles. They are less likely to irritate and are the best choice for anyone who loves candles but wants something easy on the lungs.
- Is wax made of toxic chemicals?
Not all waxes are made of toxic chemicals. Some waxes, like paraffin, release toxic fumes when burned. This is why you must buy from Stān dle. We use toxin-free waxes like soy and beeswax, so you can enjoy a clean burn without worrying about nasty chemicals in the air.
