Can You Be Allergic to Candles?
Candles can help set the mood and make a home feel cozy and inviting. But for some people, lighting a scented candle can cause sneezing, wheezing, and other allergy symptoms. So can you actually be allergic to candles?
In short - yes. An allergy to candle ingredients, especially scented candle fragrances, is possible. Certain chemicals used to create pleasant aromas can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
In this article, well explore what makes candles problematic for allergy sufferers. Well look at allergy symptoms, aggravating ingredients, and tips to safely enjoy candles when you have sensitivities.
Common Candle Allergy Symptoms
Allergic reactions to candles can manifest in the following ways:
- Sneezing - Frequent sneezing is a common symptom, much like an allergy to pollen or dust.
- Coughing - Exposure to candle smoke can cause coughing fits and irritation.
- Wheezing - Some people experience wheezing, trouble breathing, and asthma-like symptoms.
- Itchy eyes - Contact with candle fragrances can make eyes red, watery, and intensely itchy.
- Stuffy nose - Candles contain chemicals that can inflame nasal passages and cause congestion.
- Headaches - Strong scents from candles often trigger headaches and migraines in sensitive people.
- Skin irritation - Coming into contact with liquid wax can cause red, itchy skin.
These symptoms may occur immediately upon exposure or could be delayed hours or even a day later. Reactions can range from mild to severe.
What Causes Candle Allergies?
Certain ingredients and chemicals used in candle making are common allergens and irritants:
Fragrance Oils
Synthetic fragrance oils are added to give candles appealing scents. The chemical compounds that make up these fragrances, like phthalates and formaldehyde, can trigger allergic reactions and asthma.
Essential Oils
While natural essential oils are less problematic than synthetic fragrances, some people are allergic to compounds in certain essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, citrus, etc.Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax, made from petroleum, may release toxins like benzene and toluene when burned. These can exacerbate respiratory conditions.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is often considered natural but may cause allergy flare ups for those allergic to soybeans or other plants from that family.
Dyes
Candle dyes, especially red dye, contain chemicals that may provoke allergy symptoms when burned.
Wick Materials
Low quality wicks containing lead and zinc can emit metal oxides during burning that pose health risks.
Additionally, the smoke and particulate matter released from any candle can irritate lungs and exacerbate respiratory illnesses like asthma. Unscented, dye-free, 100% beeswax or soy candles are least likely to cause problems.
Tips for Safely Using Candles with Allergies
Those sensitive to candles dont necessarily have to abstain altogether. With certain precautions, many people can still enjoy candles without suffering allergy flare ups:
Avoid Synthetic Fragrances
Stick to 100% natural soy, beeswax, or vegetable-based candles scented only with pure essential oils. Stay away from artificial fragrances.
Ventilate the Room
Burn candles in well-ventilated areas and crack a window open to allow airflow. This prevents buildup of smoke.
Trim the Wick
Trim wick to 14 inch before lighting to reduce smoke levels and limit toxins released.
Burn for Limited Time
Extinguish candles after 1-2 hours maximum to avoid overexposure to smoke and fragrance compounds.
Keep Away When Lit
Position burning candles far from your face and breathing zones to minimize direct inhalation of chemicals.
Test a Small Amount
When trying a new candle, burn only for 5-10 minutes first to gauge your reaction before lighting for longer durations.
Read Labels Carefully
Check ingredient lists and avoid candles with added dyes, synthetic fragrances, and paraffin wax.
Use Unscented Varieties
If scented candles cause problems, opt for unscented, non-allergenic candles made of pure beeswax.
Avoid Smoky Flames
If wick produces black smoke or candle doesnt burn cleanly, extinguish it right away to minimize toxic exposure.
Alternative Fragrance Sources for Allergy Sufferers
For those who need to avoid scented candles, there are many options to scent a home naturally and safely:
Essential Oil Diffusers
Diffuse a few drops of pure essential oils like lemon, lavender, eucalyptus, etc. for an allergy-friendly aroma.
Potpourri
Display fragrant dried flowers and herbs in bowls around the home for subtle scent.
Simmer Pots
Gently simmer cinnamon sticks, citrus peels, vanilla, and other herbs in water on the stove.
Dried Flowers
Hang dried lavender, rose buds, and other fragrant flowers around the home.
Fresh Flowers
Keep fresh flower arrangements with fragrant blooms to scent the home naturally.
Sachets
Make small cloth sachets filled with sweet spices like cloves, allspice berries, and anise to tuck in drawers.
Fruit Peels
Add orange, lemon, grapefruit, and lime peels to a pot of boiling water for a hit of fresh citrus.
Herbal Vinegars
Steep fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, basil, and sage in vinegar for a scented cleaning vinegar.
Essential Oil Cleaners
Add a few drops of essential oils to all-natural cleaning sprays.
When to See a Doctor
In severe cases of candle sensitivity, its wise to consult an allergist or doctor. They can help diagnose the specific allergen trigger through testing.
An allergist may recommend immunotherapy treatments like regular allergy shots. This can potentially make your body less reactive to certain fragrance compounds over time.
In the case of asthma triggered by candles, the doctor may prescribe an emergency inhaler to use when experiencing symptoms. Be sure to get evaluated if candles are causing major disruptions to your breathing.
Living Comfortably with a Candle Allergy
A candle allergy doesnt mean you have to live without their warm glow or scented appeal. By finding non-allergenic options made with natural soy, beeswax, and essential oils, most people can safely enjoy candlelight.
Implementing extra ventilation, keeping candles away from face level, and maintaining proper wick trimming will also go a long way in preventing allergy issues. Lastly, seeing an allergist or doctor
FAQs
What are symptoms of a candle allergy?
Common candle allergy symptoms include sneezing, coughing, wheezing, stuffy nose, headaches, itchy eyes, and skin irritation. Reactions can range from mild to severe.
What ingredients in candles cause allergies?
Synthetic fragrance oils, paraffin wax, dyes, low quality wicks, and smoke are potential candle allergy triggers. Some people may also react to essential oils or soy wax.
Can candles trigger asthma?
Yes, the chemicals released from burning candles can irritate airways and exacerbate asthma in sensitive individuals.
Are soy candles hypoallergenic?
Soy wax candles are less problematic than paraffin candles for many people. But those with soy allergies may still react to soy wax. Beeswax candles are the best hypoallergenic option.
Can you develop a candle allergy suddenly?
It's possible to develop new candle allergies over time with increased exposure. Sometimes an allergy is triggered suddenly by a new type of candle ingredient.
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.
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