What is the effect of burning scented candles continuously? 5 ways to use scented candles safely

Burning candles can release chemicals into the air, affecting health. The following article will help you choose safe candles and light them properly.

After a long day at work, you turn on some music, pour yourself a cup of herbal tea and light a scented candle. But when your home is filled with the warm scent of scented candles, it can also contain harmful chemicals that are harmful to your health. Here, learn if scented candles are harmful and how to burn them safely in your home.

Health effects of lighting scented candles

When burned, candles release CO, soot and chemical compounds into the air, including toluene and benzene. You probably already know about CO and soot, chemicals that are bad for air quality. What about toluene and benzene?

Toluene is commonly associated with fumes emitted from paint thinners and can cause eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation. It can also cause respiratory problems in people who are prone to respiratory problems. Depending on the level of exposure, toluene can also lead to fatigue, confusion, dizziness , headaches, anxiety and insomnia - as well as damage to the kidneys, liver and nerves.

Benzene - one of the toxins released when smoking, is very harmful to health. Benzene is an industrial chemical that is associated with carcinogens. (In other words, it has been linked to cancer.)

However, a causal link between candle use and blood cancer has not been proven. And the amount of benzene emitted by candles is significantly lower than that produced by cigarette smoke.

Also, keep in mind that, to some extent, the health effects of burning candles depend on the individual.

Scented candles can lead to health risks

Are scented candles more harmful?

The researchers say there isn't enough evidence yet to prove whether scented candles are harmful. But they are likely to contain volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, such as formaldehyde .

Exposure to VOCs can lead to allergic reactions and worsen existing respiratory illnesses. For example, formaldehyde is highly toxic and a potential carcinogen.

A January 2023 study in ‌BMC Public Health‌ found that nearly a quarter of college students who used scented candles reported health problems - including headaches, shortness of breath, coughing, and exposure to Scented candles for an hour or more are associated with higher rates of headaches, sneezing, and wheezing.

Furthermore, an October 2019 review in ‌Cancer Prevention Research‌‌ found that aromatic compounds released when scented candles were burned were associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer .

Burning scented candles can release chemicals into the air that affect health

How to choose a safe scented candle

The safest option is unscented candles, but if you still want a pleasant smell, look for candles that are made with natural waxes or essential oils. Candles made from beeswax or vegetable waxes such as soy may release less formaldehyde into the air than candles made from paraffin, a petroleum compound.

Also, check the candle wick. Avoid using colored or metal wicks, which may contain toxic chemicals and pose a health hazard. Undyed cotton, paper, or wood wicks are a safer option. (Pull off the wick to make sure there's no metal inside.)

5 ways to use scented candles safely

If you still want to burn candles in your home, then refer to the following tips.

Increase air flow

No matter what kind of candle you're burning, smoke can still be released into the air. So light the candle in a well-ventilated room. Open windows or doors for ventilation. If you put candles in the bathroom, turn on an overhead fan.

Take fire safety precautions

Keep candles away from anything flammable. The US Fire Administration recommends keeping them at least a foot away from anything flammable. Avoid using them in the bathroom or bedroom, put them out before going to bed.

It is advisable to keep the candle wick cut to about 0.6 cm. This will reduce the amount of soot that the candle produces when burning.

Don't blow out the candle

Blowing out candles directly causes more smoke, resulting in more soot being released into the air. Instead, use a fire extinguisher to put out the flames.

Throw away smoky candles

If you notice smoke coming from the wicks, throw them out immediately. A smoking candle means that toxins and particulate matter are being released into the air.

The same thing happens if you see a ring of black soot forming around the candle.

Do not use scented candles that have smoked

Watch out for allergy symptoms

Early signs of an allergic reaction or respiratory irritation from candle smoke inhalation include: itchy eyes or nose, runny nose, and sneezing . If you have any of the above symptoms, discard the candle immediately.

Is it okay to light scented candles continuously?

The answer is still fine. Just take care to use them safely, including buying high-quality, natural candles and placing them in a well-ventilated room. If the candle has aromatic compounds in it, check to see if you may be allergic.

Also take extra precautions if you have allergies or a pre-existing respiratory condition.

In general, people use scented candles to improve their mood, and in some cases, use scented candles to help treat mental health. However, it is still necessary to pay attention to the possible risks when using scented candles continuously, to avoid adverse effects on physical health.