Are Scented Candles Bad for Your Health

After a long day, lighting a scented candle can set the perfect relaxing mood. But as the cozy fragrance fills your space, could it also be releasing harmful chemicals into the air? While candles bring warmth and comfort, concerns about indoor air pollution and potential health risks have raised questions about how safe they really are.

Here’s what you need to know about scented candles, their possible effects on your health, and how to use them more safely.

What Happens When You Burn Candles

Candles are a booming industry, generating nearly $13 billion annually in the U.S. But despite their popularity, they aren’t great for indoor air quality. When burned, candles release carbon monoxide, soot, and chemical compounds, including toluene and benzene, which may have negative health effects.

• Toluene is a chemical found in paint thinners and can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation. In high concentrations, it has been linked to dizziness, headaches, and insomnia.

• Benzene, also found in cigarette smoke, is classified as a carcinogen and has been associated with an increased risk of blood disorders.

While the levels of these chemicals from candles are lower than other common sources of indoor air pollution, people with asthma or respiratory sensitivities should be particularly cautious.

Are Scented Candles Worse?

Possibly many scented candles contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde, which can trigger allergic reactions or worsen respiratory conditions. A 2023 study in BMC Public Health found that nearly 25% of university students who used scented candles reported symptoms like headaches, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Additionally, an October 2019 review in Cancer Prevention Research suggested a possible link between aromatic compounds in candles and an increased risk of bladder cancer.

While more research is needed, some studies hint that essential oil-based scents may be a safer option compared to synthetic fragrances.

How to Choose Safer Candles

The best way to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals is to choose natural, high-quality candles:

• Opt for beeswax or soy-based candles instead of paraffin, which is petroleum-derived and may release more toxins.

• Avoid metallic or colored wicks, which could contain toxic elements. Instead, choose undyed cotton, paper, or wooden wicks.

• Look for candles scented with essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances.

5 Ways to Burn Candles More Safely

If you love candles but want to reduce potential risks, follow these simple safety tips:

1. Ventilate Your Space
   Always burn candles in a well-ventilated room. Open windows or doors to increase airflow, especially in small spaces like bathrooms.

2. Follow Fire Safety Guidelines
   Keep candles at least 12 inches away from flammable items and never leave them unattended. Trim the wick to a quarter-inch to reduce soot and ensure an even burn.

3. Avoid Blowing Them Out
   Blowing out a candle can create more smoke and release additional soot into the air. Use a candle snuffer or a wick dipper instead.

4. Discard Smoky Candles
   If you notice black soot forming around the candle’s glass container or excessive smoke when burning, it’s best to stop using it.

5. Watch for Allergy Symptoms
   If you experience itchy eyes, a runny nose, or sneezing after burning a candle, it may be triggering an allergic reaction. Consider switching to a fragrance-free alternative.

The Bottom Line

For most people, lighting scented candles occasionally is not a major health risk. However, if you have allergies, asthma, or other respiratory concerns, it’s wise to take precautions. Choosing high-quality, natural candles and ensuring good ventilation can help you enjoy the ambiance without unnecessary exposure to harmful chemicals.

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