Scented candles can enhance the atmosphere from smell and sight, and have always been sought after by people who pursue quality life and fashion. However, the latest research warns the public that scented candles look charming and smell attractive, but improper use can cause harm to the human body.
Ruhura Masudi, a professor of chemistry at the University of South Carolina, and his research team conducted a comparative study of scent-free, color-free, and dye-free candles made from petroleum-based wax (paraffin) or plant-based wax.
It was found that plant-based candles did not produce any potentially harmful pollutants, whereas paraffin wax candles release harmful chemicals when burned. If you light paraffin candles at home for a long time, you will inhale more dangerous pollutants floating in the room, thereby increasing the risk of respiratory diseases such as cancer and asthma. A study by the University of Maryland found that scented candles also contain a variety of harmful substances such as acetone, phenol, toluene, benzyl acetate and limonene. These substances can interfere with hormone balance in the body and increase the risk of asthma, chronic lung disease and allergic reactions. . A US Environmental Protection Agency research report pointed out that burning candles (especially scented candles) is a major source of carbon and metal particles in indoor air, which may lead to excessive levels of heavy metals such as lead in indoor air, posing serious health risks.
Masoudi’s analysis points out that most candles are made from paraffin, which is the final by-product in the petroleum refining chain. Paraffin wax produces carcinogens toluene and benzene when burned. These chemicals, also found in diesel exhaust, can damage the brain, lungs and central nervous system and cause developmental delays in children.
However, you can limit your exposure to hazardous ingredients by burning candles that are made from soy wax or beeswax and contain no dyes or colorants. If you are concerned about exposure to other air pollutants or you have underlying respiratory problems such as cough, asthma, throat discomfort, or other respiratory symptoms, it is recommended that you look for scented candles that get their fragrance from natural fragrances rather than synthetic fragrances. This is not to say that natural flavors are automatically healthier. In fact, burning some essential oils can be harmful to your respiratory tract.
Secondly, maintaining good ventilation when burning scented candles can help disperse smoke and harmful substances. Cleaning your chimney and candlesticks regularly will also prevent the accumulation of dust and harmful substances.
You may also consider using a reed diffuser instead of burning scented candles. A reed diffuser is an air freshening and fragrance distributing device that replaces scented candles and has some advantages that scented candles do not have.
Here are the benefits of using a reed diffuser:
1.No Fire Risk:
Reed diffusers are a fire-free way of distributing scents that do not require heating or lighting, and compared to scented candles, there is no open flame involved, making them safer, especially in homes with small children or pets.
2.Continuous Dispersion:
The reed diffuser absorbs the fragrance liquid through the reed stick, and then continuously distributes the fragrance into the air. In contrast, scented candles typically release fragrance when lit and stop when extinguished.
3.Adjust aroma intensity:
The aroma intensity of the reed diffuser can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the number of reed sticks, making it easier for users to control the intensity of the aroma.
4.No smoke and particulate matter:
Unlike scented candles, reed diffusers do not produce smoke and particulate matter, helping to maintain clean air.
5.Long-lasting:
The effects of reed diffusers are generally longer-lasting because the scented liquid can be released more slowly without requiring the user to be constantly present.
6.Wide Applicability:
Reed diffusers are suitable for a variety of scented liquids, and different scents and blends can be selected to meet personal preferences.
Whether it’s a reed diffuser or a scented candle, you don’t need to think too much about short-term use, either can create enough fragrance to fill a room.