Be careful when burning candles: some can harm your health

Candles are not only a beautiful gift, but also a poison

Before the invention of the light bulb, candles and lanterns were our main light sources. In today's world, people use candles as decorations, in ceremonies, and for relaxation. Some companies today make candles from paraffin wax and other materials such as beeswax, soy wax or palm wax. It is paraffin wax that is derived from petroleum. However, people on the other side of the argument claim that such candles do not contain enough toxins to pose a health risk^[1].

At Christmas and New Year, we often give each other candles as gifts to make our homes cozy on dark nights. However, for some time, there has been talk that candles can harm health if they are brightly colored and scented. It has been reported that many of the candles sold in supermarkets are made from unnatural materials, so when we burn them, we can clearly see the toxic black tar that smokes. So, which candles should you burn yourself and give to loved ones?

Some scented paraffin or gel candles release acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, and naphthalene when burned. Candles also produce soot, which settles on floors, carpets and electrical appliances. These substances are said to cause neurological, chronic or cancerous diseases. The fine particles released into the air when burning incense and candles are considered hazardous because they absorb toxic substances and micro-organisms in the air and carry them into the respiratory tract.

Natural beeswax or soy wax candles should be used to avoid this damage. They may burn more quickly, but at the same time, they give off a pleasant smell. This is the type of candle that does not have bright colors and is not scented. However, even natural candles are not recommended to be burnt in large quantities, so ventilate the house afterward.

Natural candles and fragrances are recommended

In addition to natural candles, natural fragrances are recommended to make your home smell like Christmas. The latter, by the way, can be made at home. In fact, it is not only incense and candles that pollute the home but also fragrances that are plugged into the main electric system. The blacklist includes, among other things, frangrant soaps put in the toilet. These products contain formaldehyde, synthetic dyes, fragrances and phthalates. Many of these substances are reportedly toxic and can cause cancer and skin irritation.

However, people are used to burning candles at home and giving them to their loved ones. Another alternative is recommended - "candles" with LED bulbs, creating a less toxic living space with the ambiance that normal candles would give off. 

There is no general ban on the use of lead wicks in candles in the EU

Candle wicks in the United States are currently lead-free. In other countries, the wicks used in candle making are usually made from natural materials such as cotton or wood. However, there is no general ban in the European Union (EU) on using lead wicks in candles. Manufacturers can, therefore, voluntarily refuse to use this material because of the potential health risks^[2].

On the other hand, although we may refuse certain types of candles, we are surrounded by many other factors that affect our health. For example, in our daily lives, we are constantly exposed to particulate matter from car exhaust, factory pollution, and anything else that burns fossil fuels. According to some older studies, the levels of particulate matter in candles are not even high enough to cause health problems in humans; in fact, if you use candles properly in a well-ventilated room, they are unlikely to impact health significantly. However, as there is no single answer to whether candles can affect health, it is probably a good idea not to take the risk.

Tips for handling candles

Following the rules is a good idea to minimize the air pollution you breathe.

• Don't burn candles in draughts
• Trim the wick if it is longer than 5-10 millimeters
• Use a candle holder or dip the wick in wax instead of blowing out the candle
• After extinguishing the candle, ventilate the room

As you may have already realized, candles made from soy or beeswax, coconut oil, and animal fats are considered healthier. However, anything that is burned emits harmful particulates and chemicals. However, in a well-ventilated room, the smoke from burning candles is unlikely to impact health significantly.

There are currently no rules requiring the detailed composition of candles. The downside of this situation is that the lack of oversight mentioned above may lead to companies labeling candles as "soy," even if soy wax is only a small part of the wax. It is, therefore, advisable to choose candles labeled with 100% soy wax, beeswax, etc., if possible. It is also advisable to ensure the wick is cotton or wooden. If you still can't resist scented candles, look for candles with essential oils or those that do not contain phthalates.

Can I make my own fragrances?

The initiative to create your own candles is a welcome one. By choosing your own ingredients, you have a unique opportunity to reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals commonly found in commercial candles. However, it is important to recognize the challenges in ensuring the purity and safety of all the components of handmade candles. This includes wax, wicks, and any natural dyes and essential oils you use.

On the other hand, you can also implement other ideas for pleasant scents.

• To capture the freshness of your home, mix slices of one organic lemon, a handful of fresh mint leaves and organic lavender petals in a pot of filtered water. This mixture gives a fresh and uplifting scent. 
• For a fresh tropical aroma, combine the slices of one organic lime, half a cup of diced pineapple (fresh or frozen) and a teaspoon of organic vanilla extract in a pot. This mixture gives a lively atmosphere to the room. 
• To evoke the festive spirit of winter, use slices of one organic orange, a handful of cranberries, a few rosemary sprigs and two cinnamon sticks. This combination gives a lovely, refreshing aroma that is perfect for the festive season.