CLAIM:
Burning scented candles releases toxic chemicals such as benzene, formaldehyde, and phthalates, which can harm health. It suggests these exposures are linked to serious conditions like hormone disruption, asthma, and even tumours. The post also implies that conventional scented candles are unsafe, promoting “non-toxic” alternatives as a safer solution.
FACT:
Evidence shows that scented candles can release pollutants and may contribute to indoor air contamination, especially in poorly ventilated spaces or with prolonged use. However, current research does not support the claim that they are inherently toxic or cause severe health conditions under normal usage. Instead, the risks, where present, are generally mild and more likely to affect individuals with sensitivities such as asthma or allergies.
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There are several beautifully packaged scented candles available in the market today - and let’s be honest, most of us have used them at some point. Whether it’s for a sense of calm, relaxation, or simply to enhance the aesthetics of a space, scented candles have become a common part of everyday life. But have you ever wondered if something so soothing could also be silently affecting your health?
In a viral Instagram reel posted by Ashley Sweeney, a content creator with over 4K followers, alarming claims are made about the potential dangers of scented candles.
The caption of the reel reads:
“After I found a lump in my breast, I learned a secret that big fragrance doesn't want you to know: your luxury candle could be toxic.”
It further claims that “burning scented candles can emit toxins like phthalates, benzene, formaldehyde, toluene, and more,” adding that these substances “have been linked to hormone disruption, tumours, asthma, and other long-term health concerns.”
Promoting her own product, the creator also states, “Meet Realm - the first air freshener that's Clean Label Project certified, Safe Scent Certified… It’s pet-safe, kid-safe, and hormone-safe.”
The reel has gained massive traction, with over 10.4 million views, 1.53 lakh likes, and 31.5K shares, amplifying concerns around the safety of scented candles.
Are scented candles harmful to health? What research says?
Scientific evidence suggests that while scented candles do release certain pollutants, the extent of their impact on health depends largely on usage, ventilation, and exposure levels.
A 2014 study examining emissions from scented candles in controlled indoor environments found that these products do contribute to indoor air pollution. However, the overall risk assessment was reassuring. As the study notes, indoor air already contains pollutants from multiple sources such as cooking, heating, and construction materials. After analysing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), semi-volatile compounds (SVOCs), and particulate matter (PM) released from candles, researchers concluded that, “under normal conditions of use scented candles do not pose known health risks to the consumer.”
Building on this, more recent research highlights a more nuanced picture. A 2023 study on indoor air pollution notes that burning scented candles can release gases such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, along with compounds like formaldehyde and aromatic hydrocarbons. Some of these, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), “have been identified as carcinogens.” The study also points out that exposure to such emissions may lead to symptoms like headaches, respiratory irritation, and allergies, particularly in sensitive individuals.
At the same time, it cautions that risks are often linked to prolonged use and poor ventilation. As highlighted, “frequent consumption of scented candles for quite a long time and their use in inadequately ventilated rooms may increase the chance” of adverse health effects. The study further recommends simple precautions such as choosing better-quality candles and ensuring proper ventilation.
Adding to this, a 2023 cross-sectional study conducted among university students in Saudi Arabia explored real-world exposure and health complaints. While scented candle use was common, about 24.8% of users reported symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath, and coughing. However, the study found that the association between candle use and these symptoms was not consistently strong or statistically significant across all exposure levels, suggesting that other factors may also play a role.
More recent experimental evidence has also examined how candles affect indoor air quality at a micro level. A study published in Nature found that burning scented candles increased particulate matter in indoor air, with PM10 levels rising up to 1.52 times the baseline within minutes. It also observed changes in airborne microbial composition, noting that “existing airborne bacteria may undergo growth or apoptosis due to combustion byproducts.” These findings underline the importance of ventilation in reducing potential risks.
Finally, a 2025 toxicological study conducted on rats provides insight into the effects of prolonged and high exposure. The study found that scented candle emissions could trigger “systemic inflammation and oxidative stress,” along with lung tissue damage under controlled conditions. However, it is important to note that these findings are based on animal models exposed to repeated and concentrated emissions in enclosed environments, which may not directly reflect typical human use.
Which candles are a better choice for health?
Type of candle matters. Research suggests that natural wax candles tend to produce less soot and fewer potentially harmful emissions than paraffin-based ones. For instance, palm stearin candles have been found to release significantly less soot, while other natural waxes are also associated with lower levels of harmful compounds.
Overall, candles made from materials like beeswax, soy, coconut, palm, or other vegetable-based waxes are considered a better option, especially when combined with proper ventilation.
This story is done in collaboration with First Check, which is the health journalism vertical of DataLEADS
