Candles have long been a staple for creating a relaxing ambiance, casting a warm glow, and filling a room with inviting scents. But with the rise of eco-conscious living, a question arises: are these flickering flames bad for your health? The short, but annoying answer is, it depends. There is no direct yes or no answer to this question.
To understand why, we have to know the factors that can make a candle “harmful”.
The Truth About Candle Wax
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The biggest concern with candles is the type of wax used. Paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct, is a common choice due to its low cost. However, when burned, it releases soot and carcinogens like benzene, which can irritate the lungs and potentially contribute to respiratory problems.
Nowadays, there are more sustainable options in comparison to the cheaper paraffin that has long conquered the candle industry. The expected growth of the candle market is to hit the $15.11 billion mark by 2030. Other more sustainable types of waxes are penetrating the market and are the biggest factor in this 6% increase from 2023 to 2030.
A Sustainable, Healthier Choice
Thankfully, there are healthier alternatives. Soy, coconut, palm, or beeswax are natural, renewable resources that burn cleaner than paraffin wax. They produce minimal soot and are 100% free of toxins, making them a better choice for those with allergies or sensitivities.
These types of waxes are more commonly used in our current generation and for obvious reasons.
We spoke to our friends at WickMagic, who are experts at making natural candles, and they recommended using a combination of Soy and Coconut wax because of the increased burn time, scent throw, and most importantly, its safety and sustainability.
Choosing Safe and Sustainable Scents for Your Candles
The flickering flame and beautiful glow of a candle are only half the story. The real magic lies in the captivating fragrance that fills the room. However, not all candle scents are created equal, and some can raise health concerns.
Some fragrances are synthetically made and include phthalates, others are hybrids in which they are made with synthetic and natural materials altogether. Finally, you have the natural essential oils that are strictly made from plant-based material.
When buying a scented candle from brands all over the UAE, make sure to check whether the brand promots 100% toxic-free candles, with no phthalates, even if they are using synthetic fragrance oils, this is fine as long as they clearly state that there are no harmful chemicals within their candles.
Conclusion
While traditional paraffin wax candles can pose health risks, there’s no need to forgo the calming ambiance and delightful scents candles offer. By opting for natural waxes like soy and coconut, and fragrances made with essential oils, you can create a healthy and inviting atmosphere in your home.
Look for brands committed to transparency, and prioritize the use of sustainable materials and safe, natural fragrances.