Scented candles are synonymous with romance and ambiance. Whether it's a gathering, a candlelit dinner, or a quiet evening reading, lighting a scented candle instantly creates a warm, cozy atmosphere, evoking a sense of serene beauty.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, scented candles can also be used for aromatherapy, helping to alleviate anxiety and depression, and even improving memory efficiency.

However, the quality and price of scented candles vary widely, and there have been reports of health issues and safety hazards due to poor-quality candles or improper use, including asthma attacks, allergies, and fires.

Health Risks from Low-Quality Scented Candles

According to reports, a man in Hankou attended a friend's birthday party where scented candles were lit. Shortly after, he experienced an asthma attack and difficulty breathing, requiring hospital treatment. Doctors determined that the scented candles triggered the asthma episode.

The quality of a scented candle hinges on its wax. In the above case, the candle was likely made from Industrial wax, a synthetic wax derived from petroleum, chemical distillates, or petroleum carbon black. Paraffin is widely used due to its low cost, odorless nature, compatibility with fragrances, good color retention, durability, and stability.

However, industrial-grade toxic. When burned, it produces black smoke and releases harmful substances, making it environmentally unfriendly and hazardous to health, particularly for individuals with asthma or bronchitis.

The quality of scented candles also depends on the essential oils used. Some low-quality candles use industrial fragrances, which may contain excessive levels of formaldehyde and phenol, as well as high amounts of limonene. These can irritate the eyes, cause skin allergies, and lead to symptoms like coughing and nausea when inhaled, potentially even posing a cancer risk.

MENAFN10112025003238003268ID1110319722