The warm glow and soothing scent of a candle can instantly transform a space, but most people aren’t aware of the toxic chemicals released when some types of candles are burned. Most candles are made from paraffin, soy, and beeswax. Paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining, is one of the most commonly used in candle production. 

Students at South Lakes enjoy using candles for decorating their spaces and to give them motivation while studying. 

”I love candles because they bring a room together and they smell good and they give a little bit of extra light,” junior Maggie Ryan said.

With candles rising in popularity, there have been concerns about the health risks that come with burning candles, and here are some of them.

Candles made with paraffin wax release small amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as benzene and toluene, and some studies have found that fumes from these chemicals have been linked to different respiratory issues and other health concerns. 

However, the levels of these compounds are generally very low and when compared to everyday levels of air pollution in urban settings, they do not amount to it. 

On the other hand, beeswax and soy candles are what candle lovers call the “safer” and “cleaner” burning alternatives. Soy and beeswax candles are frequently promoted as cleaner-burning alternatives. These natural waxes tend to produce fewer toxins when burned. In addition to their cleaner profile, soy and beeswax candles are also more eco-friendly, offering a renewable and biodegradable option for environmentally conscious consumers. Another important aspect of candle composition is the wick. Modern candles typically use cotton or wood wicks, replacing the older lead-core wicks that were banned in many countries due to the risk of lead exposure.

If you enjoy the ambiance that candles provide, but are concerned about their potential health effects, here are some ways to make sure you stay safe from any health concerns you may have:

Choose Natural Waxes: Opt for soy or beeswax candles over paraffin whenever possible.

Mind the Wick: Ensure that the wick is trimmed to about ¼ inch before each use to minimize soot production.

Ventilate: Always burn candles in well-ventilated areas to disperse any emissions.

Limit Burn Time: Avoid burning candles for extended periods in a single session to reduce the buildup of indoor pollutants.