The Health Risks of Scented Candles: Are They Carcinogens?
There are many alarming cancer-related headlines out there, including more than a few claiming that candles cause cancer. In reality, candles are a very low cancer risk under normal use, but that isn’t to say they are completely safe. Before you sniff out your favorite scented candle - or pay extra for “non-carcinogenic” products - give this article a read.
Candles, Chemicals, and Cancer
First, know that burning commercially available candles does not cause cancer. The basic combustion process does indeed emit small amounts of volatile organic compounds, including benzene and toluene; they pose no real danger. In fact, most public health experts believe indoor candles pose a lower health risk than cooking inside or outdoor air pollution in most communities.
Known Candle Toxins
Most candles are not toxic, although most contain some potentially hazardous materials. Importantly, the potentially toxic compounds released by burning candles are only released when burned and, to belabor the point, in trace amounts. Some of the potentially concerning elements in candles are:
Paraffin - A wax made from petroleum that emits benzene and toluene at high temperatures.
Scents - Synthetic fragrance oils often contain phthalates, which sometimes cause headaches, dry eyes and mouth, and respiratory irritation.
Smoke and soot - Burning candles in small, enclosed spaces with little to no ventilation generates airborne irritants that may affect those with respiratory conditions like asthma.
As much as the safety of scented candles has been questioned, they don’t contain toxic components in amounts anywhere near those that could pose significant health risks.
Related: Food Preservatives, Cancer, and Eating Well
How to Enjoy Scented Candles at Home
If you are concerned about candles, you can take a few precautionary measures.
Open windows when burning candles to improve circulation and ventilation.
Only burn candles for an hour or two at a time to limit smoke and soot buildup in the air.
Choose plant-based or natural waxes made from soy, coconut, or beeswax, and avoid paraffin products.
Where Did the Candle and Cancer Claims Come From?
Big soybean. In 2009, the American Chemical Society hosted a presentation that claimed paraffin-based candles posed a serious cancer risk. The presentation was based on research funded by the US Department of Agriculture, going so far as to suggest that soy-based candles replace paraffin candles. This would boost the USDA’s farmers by increasing demand for soybeans by over 60 million pounds annually.
Less Cancer Believes in Science
Science isn’t biased. We understand the confusion and harm caused by faulty, industry-funded studies that use scare tactics to influence consumer behavior. For over two decades, Less Cancer has offered much-needed education, advocacy, and programming to help consumers and healthcare professionals separate fact from fiction. You can help by donating to Less Cancer and being a part of making cancer prevention a priority.