Are scented candles bad
Are Scented Candles Bad for You?
Are scented candles bad for you? It’s a question that many candle lovers have pondered!
Scented candles can be a beautiful source of comfort and relaxation, but they can also pose potential health risks if they contain certain ingredients.
If you’re like us, you probably spend a lot of time reading the ingredient labels on your products before you buy but when it comes to scented candles, what exactly should you look out for?
In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of scented candles, exploring their ingredients, potential health effects, and how to choose safer options.
Understanding Scented Candle Ingredients
Scented candles are typically made from a combination of wax, fragrance oils, and other additives. While scented candles can enhance the ambience of a room, they may release harmful chemicals into the air when burned. Let’s take a closer look:
Candle Wax
The type of wax used in a candle can significantly impact its safety and environmental impact. Common types of candle wax include paraffin wax, soy wax, coconut wax, and beeswax.
Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, is the most common type of wax used in candles. While it’s known for its affordability and ability to hold fragrance well, it also releases harmful chemicals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene and toluene when burned. This can contribute to indoor air pollution and cause respiratory irritation.
On the other hand, soy wax is a natural and renewable alternative made from soybean oil. Soy wax candles burn cleaner and longer than paraffin wax candles and are considered a safer option for both your home and the environment.
Candle Fragrance
In addition to wax, fragrance oils are essential components of scented candles. These oils are responsible for creating the candle’s aroma and can consist of many different chemicals. Unfortunately, many commercially available fragrance oils contain phthalates, which are synthetic compounds used to help fragrances linger in candles. Phthalates have been linked to various adverse health effects, including respiratory issues, hormone disruption, and even reproductive problems.
Unlike essential oils, fragrance oils are synthetic which means they are not formulated directly from plant origin. That being said, many fragrance oils do contain a high percentage of essential oils. Unfortunately, pure essential oils can be difficult to work with due to their composition, whereas fragrance oils are fine-tuned to work with candle wax. For this reason, most candle makers opt for fragrance oils – the key is choosing candles that contain non-toxic fragrances.
Choosing Safer Candle Options
When choosing a scented candle, it’s important to check the ingredients and be mindful of their potential health risks. By choosing candles made from natural ingredients, such as soy wax and non-toxic fragrances, you can enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy without exposing yourself (and your family) to harmful chemicals.
At Jade + June, our priority is creating high-quality candles that contain no nasties. Our candles are handcrafted using natural soy wax, which burns cleaner and longer than traditional paraffin wax. We also use non-toxic fragrance oils, free from harmful phthalates and other chemicals.
What are the Benefits of Scented Candles?
Scented candles smell great and can transform the atmosphere in your space, but they also offer several therapeutic benefits for your mind and body. There’s a whole science behind it!
Choosing the perfect candle can have a powerful impact on your mood, emotions, and overall well-being. When inhaled, different scents can stimulate the olfactory system, creating a response in the body. For example, lavender or lemongrass-scented candles are known for their calming properties, making them perfect for relaxation and stress relief after a long day. On the other hand, citrus-scented candles can uplift your mood and increase energy levels, while vanilla-scented candles evoke feelings of comfort and warmth.
All Jade + June candles are infused with ethically sourced crystals, adding a touch of beauty and positive energy to your home. Each crystal has been chosen for its unique properties and benefits, and paired with fragrances that complement and enhance their effects, offering a holistic approach to self-care.
Final Thoughts
While scented candles can add warmth and ambience to any space, it’s essential to be mindful of their potential health risks. At Jade + June, we’re committed to crafting home fragrance products that prioritize your well-being, so you can breathe easy knowing you’re choosing safer options for your home.
