Which scented candles are dangerous?

March 23, 2025

Scented candles are a wonderful part of our homes, and they can help us feel better by creating an atmosphere that fits the situation we're in. There are uplifting scents, fragrances that help us relax, and aromas that take us back in time. But, like many other products we use today, it’s important to be aware of what they actually contain – some scented candles can indeed be dangerous for your health if you don't choose wisely, especially if you already have an allergy to certain substances. In this blog, we’ll go through what to look out for to ensure that you pick the right 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 from plastic or other materials that don’t burn well. This can release toxic particles during burning, which can affect the air you breathe. For the best safety, make sure the candles you buy use wicks made from natural materials like cotton or wood, which provide a cleaner and safer burn.

Which Ingredients Should You Avoid in Scented Candles?

Paraffin Wax – Many mass-produced scented candles contain paraffin wax, a cheaper alternative that actually comes from petroleum. When paraffin wax burns, it can release carcinogenic substances like toluene and benzene. This can have long-term negative effects on both your health and indoor air quality.
Lead in the Wicks – In the past, some candle manufacturers used wicks with lead wire, which would release toxic lead fumes when the candles burned. Fortunately, this is now banned in many countries, but it’s always good to be aware and choose candles with lead-free wicks.
Scent Oils with Synthetic Chemicals – To create strong and long-lasting scents, some manufacturers use synthetic fragrance oils that can contain phthalates and other chemicals harmful to both humans and the environment. These chemicals can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and other health problems. At Moony Flames, we use synthetic oils, but they are specially designed for candles and are free from phthalates and parabens.

Phthalates – What Are They?
Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics softer, but they are also used in some fragrance oils to stabilize and extend the longevity of the scents. 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 variety of health issues, such as:

Reproductive Problems: Phthalates can affect the reproductive system, especially in men.
Respiratory Issues: They can irritate the airways and contribute to allergies and asthma.
Developmental Disorders: Exposure to high levels of phthalates can negatively impact children and fetuses.

Therefore, it’s wise to choose scented candles that do not contain phthalates and instead opt for products that use natural essential oils or are phthalate-free.

Parabens – What Are They?
Parabens are synthetic preservatives used to prevent bacteria and mold growth in cosmetic products and fragrance oils. They are common in many products, from skincare to scented candles. Just 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.
Hormonal Imbalance: Prolonged 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 from these chemicals.

Choose Candles with Natural Ingredients
To avoid potentially dangerous scented candles, we recommend choosing candles that use natural waxes like soy wax, coconut wax, or beeswax. If you want your candle to be vegan, avoid using beeswax candles. These materials are at least both pure and sustainable, meaning they don’t 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 fragrance wax to ensure that you get a pure and safe alternative for your home.

Fragrance Oils – What to Consider
When it comes to fragrance oils, it’s best to choose candles with vegan and cruelty-free oils that don’t contain synthetic substances 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 pure and safe fragrance experience that you can trust to use in your home.

Storage and Handling of Scented Candles
It’s also important to handle and store your scented candles correctly. Keep them away from direct sunlight and store them in a cool, dry place. Always ensure you never leave a burning candle unattended, and use a suitable candle holder to prevent the candle from tipping over or causing a fire risk. Our lids, which we send with our candles, do not contain silicone. We chose them because they can also be used as coasters for our candles.

Conclusion – Choose the Right Candles for Your Safety and Health
When choosing scented candles, it’s important to think about both safety and the environment. By choosing natural waxes, lead-free wicks, and high-quality fragrance oils, you can enjoy a pure, safe, and wonderful 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 purchase a scented candle, think about what it really contains and choose candles that are good for both you and your environment.