Candles can help you relax, feel calm and put your mind in a more productive mode. However, some studies show that fumes in some scented candles contain dangerous benzene, which can cause cancer.
In addition, some candles have been shown to produce toluene, a compound that can cause dizziness and difficulty concentrating. In higher concentrations, the substance disrupts the functioning of the respiratory, immune, and blood circulatory systems.
Are there toxic chemicals in candles?
Poor quality candles contain substances that are dangerous for the respiratory system. A study conducted by scientists from South Carolina State University showed that scented candles emit tiny particles. The small particles can enter the bloodstream and cause health problems including asthma and cardiovascular disease
Candles can also cause headaches and nausea. However, for them to produce these effects, they must be burned long and used regularly (especially in poorly ventilated areas). After using them for some time, you may notice your eyes become irritated, strange hoarseness, or a cough.
How do you know if a candle is toxic?
Most of the scented candles that are dangerous to our health are made of paraffin wax. The material comes from petroleum, an environmental pollutant that produces large emissions of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Moreover, it contains up to 11 carcinogenic compounds that are highly toxic to us.
Then why are candle manufacturers using paraffin wax? Some companies like to save money by selling consumers products containing cheap and often harmful substances. Paraffin is cheaper than other types of wax and has a stronger fragrance. Apart from wax, most of the chemicals in synthetic fragrance come from crude oil and natural gas. Considering that 60% of what we put on the skin is absorbed into the bloodstream, we should focus more on natural cosmetics and products.
Which candles are safe for your health?
If you like candles, and at the same time want to take care of your health, you do not necessarily have to give them up. Replace paraffin candles with a healthier alternative, such as coconut wax candles. This wax is 100 percent biodegradable and does not produce toxic substances or soot.
Greener alternatives only have one drawback: they are a bit more expensive than paraffin wax candles. However, it’s worth spending a little more money to enjoy the benefits of scented candles without the discomfort of using toxic candles.
How do you know if a candle is safe?
As with any cosmetic product, you should always check its label! Typically, the ingredients are listed on the back of the package. If you do not know the names of the substances, search for information on the Internet.
Pay particular attention to the wax that has been used to make the candle. Avoid candles that contain paraffin. It’s better to spend a little more to buy a candle made of natural ingredients and not to poison your body.
Where to buy healthy candles?
Fortunately, there are many non-toxic alternatives to choose from. So you don’t have to give up candles entirely. Plant, soy, bee, and coconut waxes are a much more environmentally friendly alternative to paraffin for the environment and our body. They are completely healthy and free from toxins and chemicals.
All of them come from renewable sources, are biodegradable and pesticide-free. They are smokeless and free of soot, thanks to which the candle burns more evenly and longer. A great way to give your candle a pleasant (and harmless) fragrance is to use natural essential oils. They can even be used therapeutically, as they are used in alternative medicine.
Are Aluminate Life candles toxic?
Aluminate Life candles are not toxic. They are made from an all-natural coconut wax blend and scented with essential and natural fragrance oils. Our 100% cotton wicks provide a clean, nontoxic burn and last up to 18 hours.
How to stay safe when using a candle?
Some candles, especially those made from paraffin wax, release toxic compounds into the air when burning. To stay safe:
- do not burn candles in a ventilated place,
- trim the wick, if it is longer than 10 to 15 millimeters,
- instead of blowing out the candle, use a candle cap or dip the wick in wax,
- ventilate the room after the candle has been extinguished.
Conclusion
While several studies have shown that scented candles can be toxic, you can still continue using your favorite candles safely. You simply need to choose one that is made of healthy materials such as coconut wax.
