Is Burning Soy Candles Safe or Bad for Your Health?
Today, candles serve various purposes such as decoration, ceremonial use, and emitting soothing fragrances. While most cheap candles are crafted from paraffin wax, healthier alternatives like beeswax, soy wax, or palm wax are becoming more popular choices.
Are candles hazardous to health? Numerous online articles warn of the dangers associated with burning candles. However, many of these claims lack substantial evidence to support their assertions.
Is candle wax toxic? While paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, is a common candle material, concerns have been raised about its potential health effects. A 2009 study suggested that burning paraffin wax could release harmful chemicals like toluene. However, this study lacked peer-reviewed validation, and reputable organizations such as the European Candle Association have contested its findings.
Although the amount of hazardous materials you can breathe in while burning paraffin candles can hardly reach the threshold to call it dangerous to health, a way better and natural alternative are soy wax, or other plant-based waxes that mitigate potential health risks.
Do candles release particulate matter and volatile organic compounds? Burning candles releases particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. While prolonged exposure to particulate matter raises concerns about respiratory and cardiovascular health, studies suggest that the amount emitted by candles is unlikely to pose significant risks to human health.
Is candle smoke harmful? Inhaling smoke from any source can potentially harm your health. While burning candles produces soot, proper ventilation and draft avoidance can minimize exposure.
Are soy candles safe? Soy candles produce less soot and fewer toxic chemicals compared to paraffin candles, making it safer for both humans and your pets.
Are scented candles safe? Scented candles may emit volatile organic compounds, you should always be mindful about skin irritation or allergic reaction after inhaling scented candles.
Tips for safe candle usage include:
-Burning them in well-ventilated spaces
-Trimming wicks to 0.5 cm, and avoiding drafts.
Despite potential risks, burning candles in moderation in properly ventilated areas is unlikely to significantly impact health.
Opting for our candles made from natural sources like coconut wax, beeswax, soy wax, palm wax, or vegetable wax may further reduce potential health risks.