Which scented candles are dangerous?

Scented candles are a wonderful part of our homes, and they can help us feel better by creating an atmosphere that feels right for the particular situation we are in. There are uplifting scents, scents that help us unwind and scents that take us back in time. But as with many other products we use today, it can be good to be aware of what they actually contain – some scented candles can actually be dangerous to your health if you don’t choose the right one and maybe you already have an allergy to certain substances. In this blog, we will go through what you should consider to ensure that you choose the right scented candles that are safe and good for both you and the environment.

The wick – An important detail for safety

One of the biggest factors when it comes to the safety of scented candles is the wick. Cheaper wax candles may use wicks made of plastic or other materials that do not burn well. This can lead to toxic particles being released during burning, which can affect the air you breathe. For the best safety, make sure the candles you buy use wicks made of natural materials like cotton or wood, which provide a cleaner and safer burn.

What ingredients should you avoid in scented candles?

1. Paraffin Wax – Many mass-produced scented candles contain paraffin wax, a cheaper alternative that is actually derived from petroleum. When paraffin wax burns, it can release carcinogens like toluene and benzene. This can have negative long-term effects on both your health and indoor air.

2. Lead in wicks – In the past, some candle manufacturers used lead wire wicks, which resulted in toxic lead fumes being released when the candles burned. Fortunately, this is now banned in many countries, but it is always good to be aware and choose candles with lead-free wicks.
   

3. Fragrance oils with synthetic chemicals – To create strong and long-lasting scents, some manufacturers use synthetic fragrance oils that may contain phthalates and other chemicals that are harmful to both humans and the environment. These chemicals can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and other health problems. At Moony Flames, we use synthetic oils, but they are specially designed for scented candles, they contain no phthalates or parabens.

Phthalates – What are they?

Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to soften plastics, but they are also used in some fragrance oils to stabilize and extend the shelf life of fragrances. However, they have been shown to be endocrine disruptors , meaning they can negatively affect the body's hormone balance. Phthalates have been linked to a range of health problems, such as:

• Reproductive problems : Phthalates can affect the reproductive system, especially in men.
• Respiratory problems : They can cause irritation to the respiratory tract and contribute to allergies and asthma.
• Developmental disorders: Exposure to high levels of phthalates can negatively affect children and fetuses.

It is therefore wise to choose scented candles that do not contain phthalates, and instead opt for products that use natural fragrance oils or that are phthalate-free.

Parabens – What are they?

Parabens are synthetic preservatives used to prevent bacteria and mold from growing in cosmetic products and fragrance oils. They are common in many products, from skin care to scented candles. Like phthalates, parabens have been shown to have hormone-disrupting properties . They can mimic the body’s own hormones, which can affect the reproductive system and contribute to health problems such as:

• Breast cancer : Parabens have been suspected of contributing to breast cancer development due to their ability to mimic estrogen.

• Changes in hormonal balance : Long-term exposure can affect hormone production and cause fertility problems and hormone-dependent diseases.

To avoid these risks, you should avoid scented candles and other products that contain parabens and instead choose alternatives that are free of these chemicals.

Choose candles with natural ingredients

To avoid potentially dangerous scented candles, we recommend that you choose candles that use natural waxes such as soy wax , coconut wax or beeswax. If you want your candle to be vegan, avoid using beeswax candles. These materials are both clean and sustainable, which means they do not release harmful chemicals when burned. At Moony Flames, we always use Swedish soy wax for our scented candles and a blend of coconut and rapeseed wax for our scented wax to ensure that you get a clean and safe alternative for your home.

Fragrance oils – What should you consider?

When it comes to fragrance oils, it's best to choose candles with vegan and cruelty-free oils that don't contain synthetics or chemicals. At Moony Flames, we use carefully selected, high-quality fragrance oils that are free from harmful chemicals and are also used in cosmetic products. We focus on providing a clean and safe fragrance experience that you can feel confident using in your home.

Storage and handling of scented candles

It is also important to handle and store your scented candles properly. Keep them out of direct sunlight and store them in a cool, dry place. Always make sure to never leave a burning candle unattended, and use a suitable candle holder to avoid the candle falling over or causing a fire hazard. Our lids that we ship with do not have any silicone in them. We chose them because they can be used as coasters for our candles.

Conclusion - Choose the right light for your safety and health

When choosing scented candles, it's important to consider both safety and the environment. By choosing natural waxes, lead-free wicks and high-quality fragrance oils, you can enjoy a clean, safe and delightful scent experience without risking your health. At Moony Flames, we place great importance on creating candles that not only look amazing, but are also safe and sustainable for both you and the planet.

So the next time you buy a scented candle, think about what's really in it and choose candles that are good for both you and your environment.