Why Toxicologists Pick Natural, Unscented Candles
That cozy glow from your favorite candle might be releasing more than just warmth and ambiance into your home. The truth is, most conventional candles release a mixture of harmful chemicals when burned, including toxins linked to respiratory issues, hormonal disruption, and even long-term health effects¹. The good news? Once you know what to avoid and what to look for, creating a healthy, cozy atmosphere is easier than you think.
The Hidden Dangers in Conventional Candles
When you see "fragrance" listed on a candle label - or any product label - that single word can legally hide any combination of nearly 4,000 undisclosed chemicals. Many of these have been linked to serious health concerns, according to Dr. Yvonne Burkart, a former Senior Toxicologist in the fragrance industry¹.
But the risks go beyond synthetic scents. When burned, both fragrances and the paraffin wax found in most conventional candles emit polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, a type of VOC that contains benzene and formaldehyde - known human carcinogens³. A study conducted at South Carolina State University found that paraffin wax specifically releases toluene, a benzene derivative and known cancer-causing agent⁴.
Synthetic Fragrances: The Hormone Disruptors
The synthetic fragrances used in scented candles also contain phthalates, a group of hormone-disrupting chemicals that mimic and block hormones, even at very low levels⁵. Phthalates can interfere with hormone pathways and modulate gene expression associated with reproduction, resulting in abnormal reproductive development and reduced fertility⁵.
The impacts extend beyond reproduction. Research shows higher phthalate exposure correlates with hyperactivity in adolescents and poorer math performance⁶. And one study found that nearly 25% of scented candle users experienced adverse symptoms - from respiratory issues and headaches to wheezing and allergic reactions⁷.
The Generational Impact
Exposure to phthalates during fetal development can make permanent changes to the developing immune system more likely and contribute to the child developing asthma and allergies⁵.
The concerns don't stop with hormone disruption. The combustion process itself poses risks. Substances found in all candle soot, like benzo[a]pyrene, can cause epigenetic changes - alterations in how genes function - that may be passed to future generations². While soy candles produce significantly less soot than paraffin, any combustion process releases some particulates, which is why proper ventilation and moderate use matter even with natural candles.
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If You Use Candles, Choose Wisely
Candles made of soy or beeswax are environmentally friendly and generally release fewer chemicals and soot into the air compared to paraffin⁸.
Look for candles that are:
- Made from 100% natural waxes (soy, beeswax, or coconut)
- Unscented or scented only with pure essential oils
- Made with cotton or wood wicks
- Labeled as "phthalate-free" with transparent ingredient lists
And remember to trim wicks and ensure proper ventilation to minimize soot particle exposure.
Safer Alternatives
If you prefer to avoid candles altogether, simmer water on the stovetop with orange slices, cinnamon sticks or cloves for a natural fragrance. Essential oil wax melts, warmers, or reed diffusers that require no flame are also good options⁸.
The Bottom Line
We're already swimming in a sea of chemicals from household products, and these exposures add up and can be passed down from generation to generation⁹. Creating a cozy atmosphere doesn't have to compromise your health. By choosing truly non-toxic candles made from natural waxes with cotton wicks, you can enjoy ambiance without the invisible chemical burden.