There is another hidden danger when it comes to candles, primarily, scented candles - which come with a time-limit warning. I started making my own soy candles around two years ago, after I mastered the art of soap making (something that I will save for another day). For years now, I have been making organic soap for family and friends. ‘The paraffin candles we tested released unwanted chemicals into the air,’ Dr Ruhullah Massoudi from South Carolina State University, told The Sun. When you become more aware, you can make better choices, both for you and the environment. Not interested in making your own candles? This can contribute to serious respiratory issues like asthma. Scientists at South Carolina State University found that because paraffin wax is a by-product of petroleum, coal or shale oil it can release cancer-causing chemicals into your home. Lead was commonly used routinely in candle wicks for years, if not decades as it helped the wick stay upright as it burned. I enjoy utilizing the beneficial, healing properties of carrier oils, butters and essential oils. As mentioned, soy is the superior wax of choice. You won’t believe how much Brits are spending on candles each year! Burning candles in the house leads to an increase in indoor air pollution, with scented candles posing an even greater risk. How much money are you burning. CBS2’s Diane Macedo reports. The dangers from scented candles are much more potential to individuals that have allergies or asthma, and it might be wise to steer clear of any scented candle or … Treat yourself to a soy-based, aromatherapy candle to experience the difference. Scented candles contain a range of harmful chemicals that have been linked to increased cancer risk, birth defects and allergies. The lower the quality, the higher a company’s profit margin. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google, Best sofa deals 2021 – the pick of the sales at ScS, DFS, Marks & Spencer, John Lewis and more, How to recycle a Christmas tree – Five genius ways to use your tree post-December, Be inspired by this savvy homeowners incredible £50 bedroom wall panelling makeover, 7 ways to get a taste of tropical style this season, Three new dark kitchens that look designer but won't break the bank, 8 things cluttering up your bedroom, and how to deal with them, Take a tour around an eclectic penthouse flat in Stockholm. When choosing a quality candle, not only will you benefit from a longer lasting, more enjoyable candle, but you will eliminate harmful air pollution. adspeed_zones.push({zoneid:82564,numofads:1,div:'vik_82564_1',wrapper:'0'}); adspeed_zones.push({zoneid:91093,numofads:6,div:'ad91093',wrapper:'adspeedsection-sidebar'}); Whether you make your own candles or love to purchase new scents to scatter about your home, I want to address the. Scented candles ‘give off cancer-causing fumes', experts warn Credit: Getty - Contributor Most scented candles are made with paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum, coal or shale oil. Limonene is used to add the citrus aroma to many candles. So give the ingredients a look when you’re next picking up a scented candle. But what about something like a candle? As mentioned, soy is the superior wax of choice. Unfortunately, petrochemicals are linked to increased cancer risk, birth defects and allergies. She let them burn for around six hours. The lead researcher placed different candles in an enclosed space designed to trap and test the emitted gas. Just like anything you purchase in terms of food or personal care products, quality does make a world of difference. Studies have confirmed that the residual chemicals from plug ins can accumulate in ever-increasing amounts in the human body over a period of time, causing health consequences. Lead: One of the biggest health risks associated with scented candles is the lead that is contained in the wicks of some of these candles. Just remember, essential oils are the only plant-based, 100 percent natural scent. Sponsored By. Love Friends? However, could your guilty pleasure be damaging your health? The possibility for danger is found in chemicals that make up the wax and fragrance. Before I dive into the best options, it’s important to address the worst. There are plenty of local artisans who make soy-based, eco-friendly candle varieties. Candle making is something that comes with practice, and I have learned many lessons along the way. So, while burning your favourite scented candle on a cosy winter evening is not putting your health in any immediate danger, consider taking a few precautions to reduce these scented candle dangers. Just remember, essential oils are the only plant-based, 100 percent natural scent. Here’s the full low-down on scented candle dangers. It makes sense to source natural, organic ingredients when you’re placing them on your skin. Scented Candles are a Fire Hazard. Simmer spices. When you burn a candle that is laced with a range of chemical additives, you’re essentially creating indoor air pollution and breathing in toxic waste. I will, however, note that soap making is the reason why I’m so conscious and aware of the potential health dangers of candles. You should thus avoid all such perfumed candles as they are havoc to humans. The hidden dangers of scented candles. As stated by South Carolina State University, long-term exposure to the emissions from certain types of candles could be dangerous to human health, based on poor indoor air quality. A spokesperson for Cancer Research UK also pointed out that there was as yet no direct evidence that everyday use of candles can affect our risk of developing cancer. There are plenty of local artisans who make soy-based, eco-friendly candle varieties. , toxic waxes and even cored wicks — which may contain lead or tin. The Yankee Candle Company, though known mostly for scented candles, makes a small number of other products. It’s not just the fragrances which you need to be concerned about either. . If you are making your own candles, source non-GMO soy wax, as well as a natural, non-cored wick made from cotton, hemp or wood. I firmly believe you can live with cats and have a clean, healthy, good smelling home. Burning a candle for an hour is like smoking just one cigarette. Danger of Cats and Scented Candles. It’s not just the fragrances which you need to be concerned about either. Such products have positive health effects, such as reducing the spread of germs from person to person. Plus, soy wax is non-toxic and burns cleaner with very little soot released as the candle burns. Made with a range of synthetic, potentially toxic materials, these candles can actually threaten your health. Scented candle dangers Scientists at South Carolina State University found that because paraffin wax is a by-product of petroleum, coal or shale oil it can release cancer-causing chemicals into your home. Not only is it healthier, but it burns cooler. Make sure you burn your candle in a well-ventilated space. Paraffin is a petroleum waste product and has to be deodorized and chemically bleached before … When researchers tested petroleum-based paraffin wax, they found undesired chemicals after burning. In comparison, vegetable-based soy candles did not produce toxic chemicals. These harmful fragrance chemicals can cause health problems ranging from headaches, dizziness and allergy symptoms to asthma attacks, respiratory tract infections and even cancer. Scented candles may have lead or lead cores in the wick, which releases dangerous amounts of lead into your home through the candle soot. How much money are you burning? Scented candles could be clogging up the air in your home - putting your family at risk of inhaling dust and fungal spores. The caveat with scented candles is that while the fragrance itself may be safe, it can cause problems for certain populations. The previous night, she had lit two scented candles. Scented candles are a huge source of indoor air pollution. It burns clean, producing no toxins, pollutants or carcinogens. But if your creme brulee smelling treat is made with paraffin wax, the fumes could contain cancer-causing chemicals. The information is difficult to track down, muddied by … 6. RELATED: This mom is … Choose Bee-Wax, Stay Tension Free:- It’s worth it to invest in a $30 candle made with soy wax and essential oils. But one of the main problems with scented candles is the scent itself. wax and wick also influence the level of air pollution. The researchers found that … Each year there are nearly 10,000 house fires in the United States alone started by scented candles. We and our animals inhale these toxins into our lungs, and from there they go directly into the bloodstream.” Lemon essential oil can increase energy and improve concentration. When you add essential oils, be aware of their flash point. Latest Videos. Not only is it healthier, but it burns cooler. Of those fires, nearly a … . Dangers of Plug Ins, Aerosol Sprays, and Candles Plug Ins. Beeswax and soy candles, which are more expensive, were given a clean bill of health in the tests. Program: CBS2 News At 5 Categories: News, Local News, WCBSTV. Plug ins rely on heat induction technology and special heat-activated gels, which cause a scent to be released. When the temperature starts to drop and the nights get longer, sometimes there’s nothing you’d rather do than curl up in a blanket with a scented candle. That’s due to the fact that most scented candles are … Use essential oils for fragrance. Soy candles are a healthier alternative to scented paraffin wax candles. You can buy scented candles that SMELL like Rachel, Ross Chandler and the gang! These chemicals have been directly linked to hormone disruption, reduced sperm count, cancer and even possible fetal exposure to autism. Conventional candles contain many toxins that may pose a risk to your [dog]. Scented candles, along with household cleaning products (recently popularised by Instagram sensation Mrs Hinch), woodburning stoves and … Beyond the potential health risks of using scented candles in your home, scented candles are also a major fire risk. What’s even more shocking is that when studied by the Environmental Working Group, more than 75 percent of products which listed the ingredient “fragrance,” the main ingredient in candles. A number of studies document that the. The large majority of candles that you purchase today have been made based on low-quality standards. On the label, written in … Typically they offer up to 70 hours of burning time. , you will be able to achieve a range of desired effects. When you become more aware, you can make better choices, both for you and the environment. While diet and the litter box has the largest impact on the smell of your home, most … In this sense, some oils are more delicate than others. Approximately 95 percent of the chemicals in these fragrances are derived from petrochemicals. Sure, a $2 candle may seem like a steal, but when it comes to your health, you just can’t put a price on it. The Dangers Of Scented Candles. This allows you to enjoy a candle for up to 50 percent longer than. Avoid fragranced air fresheners, air deodorizers, scented plug-in types of products, fragrance oils, fragranced melting wax, and pot-pourri. Lavender, for instance, promotes relaxation. Dangers of scented candles: the TRUTH. They also damage your nervous system and make you fall a prey to skin tumors. Perfume in scented candles can contain chemicals which mix with gases in the air, causing a dangerous cocktail that can kill, a study has found +3 Limonene is … They are not only better for your health, but also the environment. Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a wonderful aroma. Lemon essential oil can increase energy and improve concentration. Among these are antibacterial hand soaps, sanitizers and lip balms. We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article. Dangers of Scented Candles In addition to the carcinogens from paraffin wax, scented candles contain synthetic fragrances and dyes. Avoid car fresheners. Related: Love Friends? I think it’s pretty obvious why this is. These included toluene, alkanes and alkenes — all known to harm human health. The lead researcher placed different candles in an enclosed space designed to trap and test the emitted gas. Not interested in making your own candles? This is the temperature at which a scent will combust when exposed to a flame. These dangerous chemicals are likely or known carcinogens, neurotoxin, and reproductive toxins. Such perfumed or scented candles are also rich in toxic chemicals such as benzene or toluene which cause diseases like cancer if inhaled. You can buy scented candles that SMELL like Rachel, Ross Chandler and the gang! According to Janice Nolen, the Assistant Vice President of … How dangerous? These chemicals have been directly linked to hormone disruption, reduced sperm count, cancer and even possible fetal exposure to autism. Why do the ingredients matter? Avoid scented markers, glues and scented craft supplies, even if they claim to be non-toxic. 5 years ago. For those in ancient times, it was an essential source of light for survival. By burning these types of quality candles, you can actually experience medicinal and therapeutic benefits. Candles are a wonderful pastime that dates back 5,000 years. ‘For a person who lights a candle everyday for years or just used them frequently, inhalation of these dangerous pollutants drifting in the air could contribute to the development of health risks like cancer, common allergies and even asthma,’ he adds. Inhaling the candle smoke led to health effects like lung inflammation and toxicity, arteriosclerosis and aging effects on chromosomes in the lungs and spleen. The dangers of these synthetic scents not only include short-term symptoms like allergies and respiratory distress, but also headaches, dizziness, nausea and brain fog. Whether you make your own candles or love to purchase new scents to scatter about your home, I want to address the issue surrounding synthetic fragrances, toxic waxes and even cored wicks — which may contain lead or tin. Oh, the art of candle making — how fun. Even lemon scented candles most often use limonene versus a natural lemon scent. What’s even more shocking is that when studied by the Environmental Working Group, more than 75 percent of products which listed the ingredient “fragrance,” the main ingredient in candles, contained harmful phthalates. We’ll get into other, less obvious side (but super serious) side effects in a bit. Though they seem safe, regular scented candles are a huge source of indoor air pollution and they put off chemicals that are considered just as dangerous as second-hand smoke. A number of studies document that the wax and wick also influence the level of air pollution. Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove. When you become more experienced, you can have a lot of fun with candle making, creating candles that actually promote positive well-being. Research Backed Reasons to Eat More Honey, Skip the Hangover: Enjoy These 7 Tasty Holiday Drink Alternatives, Blast Your Holiday Belly With Apple Cider Vinegar, 7 Ways To Save $500 A Month (And Improve Your Health), Here is a Delicious Thanksgiving Dinner Without the Guilt, Sipping Lemon Water First Thing In The Morning Is Good For You: Here’s Why, Weird Facts About your Belly Button you Probably Didn’t Know, Cavities are Contagious: Here’s How it Happens, Get Your Hot Chocolate Fix and Smash Chronic Inflammation at the Same Time. It's not just a sweet scent they're giving off. A 2009 study out of South Carolina State University also warns about chemicals emitted into the air upon burning candles. According to the EPA, burning candles can emit acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, acrolein, and naphthalene. , long-term exposure to the emissions from certain types of candles could be dangerous to human health, based on poor indoor air quality. Three of the households had the highest levels of limonene, which corresponded to the amount of household products and scented candles they … ‘However, we would advise people to take sensible precautions when burning candles, such as opening a window to keep the room ventilated to minimise the amount of emissions breathed in.’. The soot/fumes are similar to that released from a diesel engine and can be as dangerous as second-hand cigarette smoke. Anecdotal stories abound about the dangers of burning scented candles in an enclosed space. When you purchase this type of candle, you’re benefiting from aromatherapy. No one wants their house to smell like cat. Create potpourri. All of which can release toxic fumes when burned. According to Anne Steinemann, an environmental pollutants expert who is a professor of civil engineering and the chair of sustainable cities at the University of Melbourne, certain candles may emit numerous types of potentially hazardous chemicals, such as benzene and toluene. Typically they offer up to 70 hours of burning time. Instead of scented candles, opt for solid beeswax candles that are unscented. All other alternatives are synthetically produced by manufacturers. Also, consider swapping your paraffin wax for a soy candle. Another danger with scented candles is an organic compound called limonene that many use. She took a second look at their packaging. As stated by South Carolina State University. However, before you start throwing all your favourite scented candles into the bin, the researched noted that emissions from using paraffin candles occasionally are unlikely to affect people. Scented Candles = More Indoor Air Pollution. Andrew Sledd, M.D., a Missouri pediatrician specializes in environmental toxicology. Lavender, for instance, promotes relaxation. Heck, it doesn’t seem that long ago that whale oil was used to make candles. In fact, if you had to take a close look at scented candles you will see a warning sign, telling you not to burn them for more than three hours at a time. Related: You won’t believe how much Brits are spending on candles each year! The research team burnt candles in a chamber, which pumped the fumes into a glass container where the contents were analysed to identify the chemicals released. A gorgeous smelling candle might seem completely harmless. And this isn't just a suggestion either, rather, it is a grave warning. They actually put off a lot of dangerous chemicals. Depending on the essential oils used, you will be able to achieve a range of desired effects. It burns clean, producing no toxins, pollutants or carcinogens. When you burn a candle that is laced with a range of chemical additives, you’re essentially creating indoor air pollution and breathing in toxic waste. Well, in some instances, as dangerous as second-hand smoke. This allows you to enjoy a candle for up to 50 percent longer than a paraffin candle. All other alternatives are synthetically produced by manufacturers. Unlike essential oils, which are extracted from plants and other natural sources, scientists produce artificial scents in a lab. In fact, in response to the research, The British Lung Foundation said: ‘We would like to reassure people that occasional use of paraffin candles should not pose any risk to their lung health. 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