Are Candles Bad For You? Here's What You Need To Know

Growing up, my mom would always light a candle or incense in our home, and once I lived alone, I did the same while taking a bath or journaling. It became a little self-care ritual. But after my cancer diagnosis, I started learning more about hormones, detox pathways, and what actually goes into the products we use frequently. That’s when I started wondering: are candles bad for you? It turns out, depending on what they’re made of, they actually can be.

Now, I’m not here to ruin your cozy fall rituals. I still love how candles set the vibe, but I’ve learned that there are better, cleaner ways to get that same vibe without compromising your health.

In this article, we’ll break down what’s actually in most candles, why some ingredients can be harmful, and what non-toxic alternatives are out there.

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Cozy coffee table setup with a burning Votivo Red Currant candle in a tortoiseshell glass jar, a potted plant in a blue pot, an open book, a beige gratitude journal, and a decorative tray with vintage matchbooks — creating a warm, inviting fall atmosphere.

What’s Actually in Most Candles (and Why It Matters)

If you’ve ever flipped over a candle to read the label, you’ve probably noticed it doesn’t list much. Usually just the scent name, maybe a few ingredients if you’re lucky. In reality, a candle contains more than just wax, and some of those ingredients can affect our health.

Let’s break down the main culprits:

1. Paraffin Wax (a petroleum byproduct)

The most popular candles, such as those from Bath & Body Works or Yankee Candle, and many other mass-produced candles, are made from paraffin wax. Diptique and Jo Malone candles also use paraffin wax.

The problem with paraffin is that it is derived from petroleum, the same oil used to make gasoline.

Studies show that when burned indoors, it can release chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. These ingredients have been linked to hormone disruption, respiratory irritation, and are known carcinogens.

Petroleum byproducts aren’t just in candles. They’re also in a lot of makeup, nail, and skincare products, often labeled as mineral oil, petrolatum, or paraffinum liquidum. These ingredients might make formulas feel silky, but they can harm our health. Which is why I try my best to only use beauty products with safe ingredients. You can learn more about this in the non-toxic beauty section.

2. Synthetic Fragrances and Phthalates

The ingredient listed as “fragrance” or “parfum” might sound harmless, but it is an umbrella term that can hide hundreds of chemicals. And companies aren’t required to disclose exactly what it is that makes up “fragrance”, as it is also considered a trademark secret.

Petroleum is the source of 95% of the chemicals used in synthetic perfumes and scented candles. And we’ve already gone over why that isn’t good.

But another problem with fragrance is that many of those chemicals are phthalates.

Phthalates are compounds used to make scents last longer. You’ll find them in beauty products, air fresheners, and yes, you guessed it, scented candles. Pretty much anything that has the term “fragrance” in the label is likely to contain phthalates.

Any, why are they so bad? Well, they are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones.

Research has also linked phthalates to obesity, diabetes, asthma, allergies, behavioral difficulties in children, and an increased risk of cancer.

On top of that, when you’re burning your vanilla-scented candle, those synthetic fragrances release volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, for short. We’ll go deeper into what VOCs are, but for now, just know that once inhaled, they can irritate your respiratory system. A 2023 study found that exposure to scented candles for more than 1 hour showed a higher occurrence of headache, sneezing, and wheezing. Long-term exposure has been linked to inflammation, asthma, and even liver and nervous system effects in some studies.

I stopped using products with synthetic fragrances over a year ago. The transition wasn’t easy at all, because it turns out almost every beauty, cleaning, and personal care product has fragrance listed as an ingredient.

I’m currently writing an in-depth article about clean fragrance options. Drop your email below to get it straight to your inbox when it goes live.

3. Colored Dyes in Candles

Those pastel-colored candles that match your living room aesthetic? Or the glittery ones that look amazing on a coffee table? Unfortunately, that color and shimmer often come from synthetic dyes and additives that release VOCs when burned.

Most candle dyes are made from aniline-based colorants, which are primarily synthesized from petroleum-based benzene. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified aniline as a probable human carcinogen.

When exposed to heat, these pigments can break down and release soot particles and more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air.

4. Soot

If you’ve ever noticed black residue building up around a candle jar or on nearby walls, that’s soot. They’re tiny carbon particles released when the wax doesn’t burn completely. It’s easy to overlook, but soot is actually a form of indoor air pollution.

Soot forms more easily when candles are made with paraffin wax, synthetic dyes, or heavily fragranced oils because these materials don’t burn as cleanly.

The problem is that the microscopic particles are released into the air when the candle burns. These particles can travel deep into the lungs, contributing to inflammation and oxidative stress.

To minimize it, avoid darkly colored or heavily scented candles, and trim wicks to about ¼ inch. Better yet, switch to clean-burning waxes like beeswax or coconut wax.

5. Metallic Wicks

While lead-core wicks were banned in the U.S. in 2003, that doesn’t mean every candle you buy is automatically safe. Imported or low-cost candles sold online might not follow the same regulations.

Since lead-core wicks were banned, zinc and tin have been used as replacements. However, all metal-core wicks can emit trace amounts of heavy metals into the air.

Even cotton wicks can be coated with synthetic stiffeners or bleach, both of which can release small amounts of chemicals during burning.

If you want the safest burn possible, look for candles that specifically mention “lead-free, unbleached cotton,” “wood wicks,” or “pure hemp wicks.” These options tend to be cleaner and produce less soot overall. We’ll go over those options in a little bit.

5. Volatile Organic Compounds from Candles

I have mentioned volatile organic compounds, VOCs for short, many times in this article.

So what are VOCs?

VOCs are a group of chemicals that easily turn into gases at room temperature, which means they’re constantly evaporating into the air around you. They’re released from all kinds of products, such as paint, cleaning sprays, air fresheners, and yes, candles.

Whenever a candle burns (especially one made with paraffin wax or synthetic fragrance), it emits VOCs into the air you breathe.

How do VOCs Impact Our Health?

Common VOCs from candles include benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde, which we have mentioned before, and all of which are classified as known or potentially carcinogenic.

Even at low levels, VOCs can irritate your eyes, throat, and lungs, trigger headaches, or worsen asthma symptoms. Studies have found that when inhaled frequently, they can also contribute to inflammation, depression, and oxidative stress.

Candles Don’t Have to Be Lit to Release VOCs

What’s even more surprising is that candles don’t have to be lit to release VOCs. While doing research for this article, I found a 2024 study that suggests that even flame-free candles emit VOCs simply from the fragrance oils evaporating at room temperature. In other words, just having a scented candle sitting on your desk or nightstand can slowly add to the chemical load in your home’s air.

And I’m writing this as I stare at my Diptyque candle, the one that survived the massive clean-out I did last year when I got rid of most of the toxic products in my home. I haven’t lit it in over a year and a half, and I love how it looks on my TV console… but perhaps this is a sign it needs to go.

VOCs Linger for Hours

The tricky part is that VOCs don’t just disappear once the candle goes out. They can linger indoors for days, especially in closed spaces with little ventilation (think cozy winter nights with the windows shut).

Over time, they mix with other household pollutants like dust or cleaning supplies residues, which your body constantly has to process.

If you’ve ever felt nauseous, groggy, or headachy after lighting a candle, or walking through the candle section at TJMaxx, it might be your body reacting to those VOCs.

This doesn’t mean you can never light a candle again, but it’s one more reason to pay attention to what’s actually in them.

If you live in a city (or even a small apartment with limited ventilation), investing in a high-quality air purifier is one of the best things you can do for your health. It helps remove fine particles, VOCs, and other pollutants from the air.

I personally use an Air Doctor air purifier, and I love it so far. I have noticed that it turns on automatically when it senses pollutants, like when I’m cooking.

Now, are scented candles alone going to cause these health issues? No. But most people have the habit of burning them almost every day. And consistent exposure can burden your body’s natural detox systems over time.

How Candles Can Impact Your Health

Our bodies are incredibly smart and resilient, and they’re constantly working behind the scenes to process and eliminate everything we breathe in, eat, or apply to our skin.

Lighting a candle once in a while is something your body can absolutely process. It’s the cumulative exposure that matters. Nowadays, almost every conventional product we use daily has something that isn’t beneficial for our health.

If candles are something you’re not ready to give up, that’s okay. You can take some precautions to support your body. At the end of the day, my goal is to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision.

It’s all about balance. I choose to limit things that don’t bring me joy and to splurge on those that do. In my case, that means I will rather skip scented candles, but I love using body oils.

But what happens in your body when you’re constantly exposed to scented candles and the VOCs they emit?

Your Liver Takes a Hit.

The liver’s main job is to filter toxins out of the body.

Every time you inhale synthetic fragrance compounds or VOCs, those chemicals get absorbed through your lungs and enter your bloodstream. From there, your liver has to neutralize and excrete them, which it can absolutely do, but not endlessly.

Studies show that, In severe cases, exposure to VOCs was associated with various forms of liver injury and dysfunction.

Over time, chronic exposure can slow down detoxification pathways (especially in people with genetic mutations like MTHFR or COMT), leading to fatigue, skin issues, or hormone imbalances.

Hormones Are Especially Sensitive

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals like phthalates, parabens, and certain VOCs can mimic or block natural hormones in both women and men.

For women, this can mean irregular cycles, worsened PMS, or difficulty balancing estrogen and progesterone. For men, it might affect fertility and disrupt testosterone. Studies also show that exposure to VOCs can lead to changes in thyroid hormone levels in women.

Even small exposures add up, especially when you’re also using fragranced body products, detergents, cleaning supplies, or skincare with similar compounds.

Our hormones rely on precise communication, and when that gets interrupted, your body feels it in your energy, your mood, and even your sleep.

Your Immune System Reacts

When the liver is overburdened and hormones are out of sync, your immune system can become more reactive. This can cause chronic inflammation and contribute to existing autoimmune conditions.

That’s why some people experience symptoms like headaches, allergies, or even anxiety when exposed to strong synthetic fragrances.

It’s not “in your head”, it’s your body signaling that your detox systems are maxed out.

How to Read Candle Labels

One of the hardest parts about buying candles is that labels can be super misleading.

A lot of brands throw around words like “natural,” “eco-friendly,” or “soy blend”, but those terms don’t actually mean much.

The candle industry isn’t heavily regulated, so it’s easy for toxic ingredients to hide behind pretty packaging and good marketing.

What to Avoid

Here is a list of red flags to avoid when looking for a good candle:

Fragrance or Parfum: This one ingredient can hide hundreds of undisclosed chemicals, including phthalates and VOCs. If a brand doesn’t clearly state “scented with essential oils,” or “fragrance-free,” assume synthetic fragrance is used.
Paraffin Wax or Mineral Wax: These are petroleum-derived and release harmful byproducts when burned. A label that says “soy blend” usually still contains paraffin.
Dyes and Colorants: If the candle has bright colors or glitter, it’s almost always synthetic. These additives can release soot and VOCs when heated.
No Ingredient List: If a brand doesn’t disclose what’s in their candle, that’s a red flag in itself.

What to Look For

100% Beeswax, Coconut, or Soy Wax: These burn cleaner and don’t release the same level of toxins. Beeswax can actually help neutralize air pollutants.
Essential Oils for Scent: Look for candles that specify the actual oils used, like “lavender essential oil” or “sweet orange essential oil”.
Cotton or Wood Wicks: Make sure it says lead-free and unbleached.
Brand Transparency: The best brands proudly list every ingredient. If it takes detective work to figure out what’s inside, that’s a sign to skip it.

Non-Toxic Candles You’ll Love

These clean candle brands are free of paraffin, synthetic fragrance, and dyes, but still look chic enough to leave out on your coffee table. They burn beautifully, smell amazing, and won’t fill your home with hidden toxins.

These are just a few options. I rounded up the 10 best non-toxic candles that still smell incredible and set the vibe. Read the full list here.

Primarily Pure

Primally Pure is one of the biggest brands in the non-toxic living space. They have everything from skincare to deodorants and candles. Their candles are made with 100% beeswax and coconut oil, scented only with organic essential oils, and hand-poured in small batches.

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Branch Basics

Branch Basics Beeswax Candle is as clean as it gets. Made with 100% beeswax, a cotton wick, and no added fragrance. Each candle is hand-poured in the U.S.

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Fontana Candle Company

Fontana Candle Co. is one of the few brands certified by the Made Safe program. This means every ingredient is vetted for human and environmental safety.

Their candles are made with beeswax and coconut oil, scented only with essential oils, and contain zero synthetic fragrance or dyes. As for the wick, they use an untreated wooden wick. They also have a large variety of scents to choose from.

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ESAS

On the higher end, we have ESAS. Their non-toxic candles are made with a blend of coconut and olive wax and organic essential oils, free from paraffin, phthalates, and synthetic dyes. Each scent is formulated by chemists and rooted in sustainability. And although I have never tried their perfumes, they seem to have the cleanest perfumes in the market.

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How to Detox Your Home from Candle Toxins

If you’ve been burning conventional candles for years (same here, no judgment), don’t panic, as your body is incredibly smart and constantly detoxing.

Here are some ways to detox your home from candle toxins and prevent more toxin buildup.

Open your windows daily: Even cracking a window for 10–15 minutes a day helps dilute indoor pollutants.
Invest in an air purifier with a HEPA + carbon filter: HEPA filters trap fine particles like soot and dust, while activated carbon filters help absorb VOCs and odors. I love my Air Doctor air purifier; it’s one of the best ones out there.
Add houseplants: Plants like peace lilies, snake plants, spider plants, and pothos help absorb some airborne toxins while increasing oxygen levels.
Stop using aerosol sprays and artificial scents: Room sprays, plug-ins, and car fresheners often contain the same synthetic fragrances and VOCs as candles.
Support your body’s natural detox pathways: things like dry brushing, magnesium baths, staying hydrated, and eating fiber-rich foods can support your body’s natural detox process.

You don’t have to overhaul your entire home in a day. Open your windows, add a few clean swaps, and maybe retire that last paraffin candle you’ve been holding onto “for the aesthetic.” Little changes like that add up and make a real difference over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Candles

Are all candles bad for you?

Not necessarily. The main issue is what they’re made of. Paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances are the biggest offenders because they release toxic byproducts when burned. Clean candles made with beeswax, coconut, or soy wax and essential oils are much safer and still smell amazing.

Are soy candles safe?

Soy candles are a better alternative to paraffin, but not all soy candles are created equal. Some “soy blends” still contain paraffin. Look for labels that say 100% soy wax or soy + coconut wax, and avoid those that use synthetic fragrance oils.

Can unlit candles still release toxins?

Yes, even unlit, scented candles can off-gas VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air. A 2024 study found that both flame and flame-free candles released VOCs due to fragrance oils evaporating at room temperature. That’s why it’s best to store candles with lids or choose unscented or essential-oil-based ones.

What can I use instead of candles for scent?

Try essential oil diffusers, simmer pots with herbs and fruit, or natural beeswax candles if you still love a flame. These options give you that cozy vibe without the synthetic fragrance overload.

Are expensive candles automatically safer?

Unfortunately no. My $70 Diptyque candle is still made with paraffin wax. Luxury doesn’t equal non-toxic — some high-end brands still use paraffin and synthetic fragrance for stronger scent throw. Always check the ingredient list instead of the price tag.

Final Thoughts

I know how comforting it feels to light a candle at the end of a long day. But as I’ve learned through my own healing journey, sometimes the things we reach for to create calm are quietly adding to our toxic load.

This isn’t about fear, it’s about awareness. Once you know what’s actually in those candles, it’s easy to make a few swaps that make your home feel just as cozy.

So maybe this week, blow out that old paraffin candle one last time, crack open a window, and light a clean beeswax one instead. Your body (and your air) will thank you for it.

And if you want to keep learning about how to detox your home and beauty routine, make sure you’re on my newsletter list. I have new articles coming soon that will help you go even deeper into clean living without losing the aesthetic.

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Are Candles Bad For You? Here’s What You Need To Know