The Potential Health Risks of Scented Candles: Are Fragrance Candles Safe?

The Potential Health Risks of Scented Candles

Scented candles can fill a room with lovely fragrances and create a relaxing or invigorating ambience. However, there are concerns that breathing in the chemicals released from burning scented candles may have negative health effects. This article explores the potential risks of using scented candles and provides tips for safer usage.

Why Scented Candles May Be Harmful

All candles release some smoke and soot when burned, but scented candles contain added synthetic fragrances and other chemicals that also get emitted into the air. Studies have found that inhaling these chemicals may irritate the lungs and airways. The effects can be worse for people with respiratory conditions like asthma. In one study, asthma sufferers exposed to scented candle emissions experienced increased inflammation in their airways.

The fragrances used in candles often contain compounds like limonene and alpha-pinene. Research shows that these substances can react with ozone in the air to produce formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and other irritating chemicals. Exposure to formaldehyde is a particular concern as it is classified as a known human carcinogen.

Candle wicks may also pose problems if they contain heavy metals like lead. As the wick burns down, small amounts of lead can get released into the air and breathed in. Lead exposure can negatively impact the nervous system and cause developmental issues in children.

Those Most at Risk from Scented Candles

While the risks from scented candles likely affect everyone to some degree, some groups seem to be more vulnerable to their potential effects:

• Asthma sufferers and people with lung conditions - The respiratory irritation from scented candle emissions can trigger asthma attacks and breathing problems.
• Pregnant women - Exposure to VOCs may potentially affect fetal development so its best for pregnant women to avoid scented candles.
• Young children - Kids developing lungs and brains are more susceptible to irritation from chemicals in candle emissions.
• The elderly - Older adults often have weaker lungs and so may experience greater effects from breathing in candle smoke.

People who burn a lot of scented candles in poorly ventilated rooms are also at higher risk as they can be exposed to more emissions over time.

Safer Use of Scented Candles

If you enjoy scented candles, there are some precautions you can take to lower any health risks:

• Ventilate the room well - Open windows or use fans when burning candles to allow chemicals to dissipate.
• Avoid leaving candles burning for long periods - Extinguish them after an hour or less.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets - Dont leave burning candles unattended.
• Trim wicks to 14 inch before lighting - Long wicks produce more soot.
• Choose candles with cotton wicks - These generate less soot than other materials.
• Look for candles made with natural soy, beeswax, or vegetable-based waxes - These release less smoke.
• Select candles with natural essential oil fragrances - Avoid synthetic chemical scents.

Seeking Out Safer Alternatives

If you are concerned about the risks of scented candles, there are some alternative options to consider that may be safer and healthier:

• Use natural air fresheners - Potpourri, fresh flowers, and essential oils are non-toxic ways to scent a room.
• Opt for unscented candles - 100% beeswax or soy candles without added fragrances avoid issues.
• Try electric candle warmers - These melt candle wax without a flame so produce no emissions.
• Use essential oil diffusers - Diffusing diluted essential oils adds natural fragrance without burning.
• Open windows - Letting in fresh outdoor air can refresh a room without risky chemicals.

The Bottom Line on Scented Candles and Health

Research shows scented candles likely expose people to a range of potentially hazardous substances like VOCs, formaldehyde, and lead. Those with respiratory issues along with pregnant women, children, and the elderly appear most vulnerable to adverse effects from candle emissions.

While scented candles may set the mood, health experts recommend using them sparingly and with ample ventilation. Seeking out safer, fragrance-free alternatives is also a good idea for those concerned about the risks. Overall, its smart to weigh the potential hazards before lighting scented candles, especially on a regular basis.

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.