Why You Should Switch to Non-Toxic Candles

The Truth About Toxic Candle Ingredients + Why They're Harmful

there's so much more awareness now about the harmful effects of toxic candles than there was when i first started Celestial Soul almost 5 years ago. however, i feel people have learned that the vast majority of the candles they're burning are toxic to inhale, but they aren't educated on exactly how it impacts their health. i'm a firm believer that when we know better, we choose better, therefore we do better. there are a variety of reasons why you should prioritize clean candles over the others. let's dive into why!

did you know?

• inhaling the chemicals in a toxic candle is the equivalent to standing behind a diesel truck and inhaling the fumes?

• the black soot from toxic candles can stain your walls, ceilings, and your lungs—which is extremely harmful to breathe! (this has happened to me many times in the past!)

• candles labeled "fragrance" or "parfum" can legally contain hundreds of undisclosed chemicals (it's considered a trade secret in the U.S.).

• toxic candles can trigger migraines, allergies, and asthma flare-ups—even if they aren't burned often.

• most synthetic fragrance oils used in candles contain phthalates, which are hormone disruptors—affecting reproductive health and mimicking estrogen.

• some scented candles emit formaldehyde when burned—which is found in embalming fluid and linked to cancer.

• burning paraffin candles for just a few hours can release the same amount of toxins as secondhand smoke.

toxic ingredients to look for:

• paraffin wax:

  • this is a byproduct of petroleum refining. when burned, it releases carcinogenic (cancerous) toxins such as toluene and benzene into the air. this tends to irritate the lungs and can contribute to long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, and cancer.

• synthetic fragrance oils:

  • these are chemically derived scents, often made from petrochemicals. they cause headaches, dizziness, hormone disruption, and respiratory issues. phthalates, which is commonly used in fragrance oils, are extremely concerning for endocrine health!

• cotton wicks:

  • not all, but majority of the cotton wicks on the market are toxic when burned. they have a wax coating that acts as a lighter fluid to keep the flame ignited. this "lighter fluid" is getting burned off and become toxic fumes in your home that then get inhaled.

• dyes:

  • these contain synthetic chemicals and heavy metals that release harmful fumes when burned. this results in air pollution and health issues such as headaches and respiratory problems. (not worth it imo just to have a pink candle!)

non-toxic candle alternatives:

• wax:

  • look for natural waxes such as soy, coconut, beeswax, or sustainable palm.

• essential oils:

  • choose candles scented with essential oils instead! you can also choose candles that are scented with non-toxic, phthalate-free fragrance oils but i personally feel like that's still a slippery slope! i'd prioritize essential oils above all else.

• wicks:

  • use candles with cotton (if they do not have a wax coating), hemp, or wooden wicks! these will have the cleanest, most natural burn.

• dyes:

  • there are some certified non-toxic dyes that you can find in candles. however, just like the phthalate-free fragrance oils, i think it's a slippery slope. and to be honest, i think dyes are totally unnecessary! i'd skip them altogether!

you can still have a beautiful smelling home by replacing the synthetic fragrances with essential oils! there are so many wonderful scent blends available to infuse your space with, it's just a matter of finding trusted sources (like celestial soul candle co.) to use!

sending you love,

xx vanessa