I like to burn candles every now and then, but normally I just use a candle warmer because it’s a little safer. Apparently, burning some candles gives off toxins. Paraffin wax candles give off toxins like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene and toluene. Candle wicks can also give off toxins. Candle fragrances also give off toxins like hormone disrupting chemicals called phthalates.
Some health effects burning candles could cause include headaches, nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing and allergies. I know I’ve gotten a headache from certain scents that were mostly like chemical filled.
The best bet is to use candles made of pure soy wax, beeswax or coconut wax. Wicks should be made out of unbleached cotton or hemp. The fragrance used should be from pure essential oils instead of artificial fragrances. Also, try to buy organic candles. Organic candles also ensure that no harmful chemicals or synthetic processes are used in their production.
I like to buy candles at craft fairs made by local companies. I think there is more care taken and better materials used in making the product than buying a random candle from a large retailer. Etsy is also probably another good source to buy candles, although you can’t smell the fragrance you are buying first. I do have a bunch of Yankee Candles. They may not be the healthiest alternative, but it looks like they are at least partially made with soy wax and natural fiber wicks.
I think overall, if you are going to burn candles every day, then you should make sure they are made of the healthiest ingredients. If it’s less than once a month, probably not a super big deal to obsess over the ingredients, but pay attention if you happen to not feel well at the same time.
Candles can get a little pricy, so another option is learn how to make them yourself. I made them using a kit with my grandmother when I was little. It was a pretty old kit, so it probably used paraffin, but it was pretty easy to do. Just melt the wax, add the scent, set the wick in the jar, pour the scented wax in the jar and let cool. Some makers are making them prettier by setting dried flowers or small stones on top of the wax before it cools and using wooden bowls or pretty jars.
Challenge:
Assess your candle collection, especially any that you burn regularly and review what ingredients it could be made of. If you notice any that make you feel unwell when being burned, toss them out. Try to gradually upgrade the candles you use to be made of more natural ingredients.
Resources:
https://organicbeautylover.com/home/best-organic-candles/
https://orbasics.com/blogs/stories/guide-to-non-toxic-candles-the-best-10-non-toxic-candle-brands
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36631840/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33964641/