Scented Candle Allergy Symptoms and Safer Alternatives

Understanding Scented Candle Allergies

Scented candles infuse living spaces with inviting fragrances. However, the synthetic chemicals producing tempting aromas can trigger unpleasant allergic symptoms in some people. Learning what causes reactions and alternatives to enjoy unscented candlelight allows sensitive individuals to avoid discomfort.

Common Allergic Reactions

Inhaling airborne candle particles may instigate coughing, sneezing, runny nose, headaches, nausea or hives. Contact with wax can irritate skin. Severe respiratory distress is possible with asthma or chemical sensitivities.

Typically, allergic responses occur upon smelling or coming into contact with candles. However, some notice reactions even just being in proximity without directly smelling or touching them.

Who's Impacted

Those prone to environmental allergies or perfume sensitivity tend to react more frequently. People managing respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD are also at higher risk.

Pregnant women, babies and small children warrant extra caution since impacts on early development remain unclear.

Allergen Identification

Pinpointing specific candle ingredients triggering symptoms helps avoid allergic reactions. Comparing reactions between candle varieties can offer clues to personalized triggers.

Common Culprits

Synthetic fragrance oils made from chemicals notorious for irritating respiratory systems are typically the primary allergens. Other reactive ingredients include:

• Paraffin Wax
• Dyes
• Preservatives

Process of Elimination

Test one new candle at a time, take note of ingredients and monitor reactions over the next 48 hours. Candles made from soy, vegetable or beeswax without dyes or synthetic scents are less likely to cause issues. Keep windows open to circulate air during initial burns.

If symptoms flare, discontinue use and see if they subside. Repeating this elimination process helps identify personal allergy triggers.

Seeking Medical Guidance

Consulting a doctor helps formally diagnose candle allergies through testing. They can advise appropriate allergy medication if warranted and provide guidance on candle ingredients to avoid long-term.

Allergy Testing

Skin prick testing checks reactions to common irritants found in scented candles. Blood tests measuring IgE antibodies can also help confirm candle ingredient sensitivities. Identifying exact allergens enables effective treatment approaches.

Medications and Immunotherapy

Oral antihistamines treat mild symptoms while nasal sprays or asthma inhalers help moderate respiratory reactions. Allergy shots gradually help build tolerance to confirmed allergens over longer periods.

Doctors may advise always having emergency medications like an EpiPen on-hand for rare anaphylactic reactions.

Safely Using Alternative Candle Options

Eliminating allergy triggers from home environments is recommended. Thankfully, accessing candlelight ambiance without synthetic chemicals is achievable.

Beeswax

Pure beeswax candles contain no added dyes or scents. Their honey aroma comes naturally from bees during production. Beeswax burns cleaner than paraffin, emitting negative ions that actually purify surrounding air.

Vegetable & Soy

Candles created using soy wax or other vegetable oils like coconut and palm with cotton braided wicks are another non-toxic alternative. They burn slowly and cleanly while producing minimal smoke.

Wooden Wicks

Wooden wicks address wispy black smoke concerns of common metal-cored wicks which can aggravate respiratory issues. They crackle when lit, emitting a soothing, fireplace-like sound.

Simply lighting candles for limited time periods helps reduce allergen exposure as well. Extinguishing wicks once wax fully melts prevents reaching smoke point.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.