Will scented candles produce harmful substances when they burn?

        With the development of the times, more and more people are beginning to use items such as scented candles to improve our quality

 of life. Will scented candles produce harmful substances when they burn? This depends on the material of the candle, the composition of

 the essential oil, the burning conditions and the environment in which it is used. 

       The following are the main potential hazards and related research results:

1. Sources of harmful substances

- Paraffin candles: Most cheap scented candles use petroleum byproduct paraffin, which may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene and toluene when burned. These substances are related to cancer and respiratory diseases.

- Fragrance additives: Candles containing limonene (common in citrus flavors) may produce formaldehyde (a known carcinogen) after reacting with indoor ozone.

- Incomplete combustion: When the candle wick is too long or the ventilation is poor, black smoke and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) will be produced. Some PAHs are listed as carcinogens.

- Nanoparticles: Studies have shown that terpenes released when scented candles burn will form nanoparticles, the concentration of which is comparable to that of automobile exhaust, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the blood.

2. Health risks

- Short-term effects: Non-natural scented candles may cause headaches, coughs, eye or throat irritation, and sensitive people (such as asthma patients) react more significantly.

- Long-term exposure: Associated with chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems and cognitive decline (such as memory loss).

- Pregnant women and infants: Because their metabolic systems are not fully developed, they are more susceptible to harmful substances and are recommended to avoid using them.

3. Safe use suggestions

- Choose natural materials: Give priority to buying edible grade soy wax, beeswax and paraffin candles;

- Ensure ventilation: Open windows or use air purifiers when burning to reduce particulate matter concentration.

- Control the use time: no more than 1-2 hours each time, and avoid using in small confined spaces.

- Trim the candle wick: Keep the candle wick about 6 mm to reduce black smoke.

- Use fireless aromatherapy (such as diffuser stones), but be aware that some fireless aromatherapy may also release high concentrations of nanoparticles.

       In summary, scented candles may pose health risks under certain conditions, but through rational selection and correct use, choosing

 natural candles will still add a different color to our lives.