Non Toxic Candles Overview

Explore a comprehensive overview of non toxic candles—from traditional formulations to alternatives like beeswax, soy, and coconut wax options. Learn why choosing non toxic candles matters for indoor air quality and overall wellness.

Medical Disclaimer: While we do our best to provide you researched-backed information, our articles are just that: informational. Our team consists of members passionate about fitness and wellness, but no doctors at this time. Therefore this article can not and should not be considered medical advice, and we cannot be a judge of whether or not the outlined information is the best choice for you. Consult a healthcare provider before adding supplements to your daily routine.

a non toxic candle next to dried, aromatic herbs

Why do we need Non Toxic Candles

When doing research, we reviewed the sparse resources around candles and their various impacts on the indoor environment and health. While there are no conclusive correlations between candles and the development of harmful conditions, several studies reported that sensitive individuals experienced irritation from exposure. In this article, we will explore the purpose of candles and how to avoid the potentially harmful byproducts of modern candles.

Modern candles have been shown to emit soot, PAHs, formaldehyde, and other various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These gaseous emissions are from the incomplete combustion of chemicals in the small flame. The concentrations of these chemicals are within federal recommendations, but many of these compounds are considered carcinogens and can build up if left in an unventilated space.

According to a study published in the Annals of Medicine we should also, "attempt to stay away from [candles] that are of low quality and made of paraffin or artificial materials". Another study found that specifically, soot and formaldehyde were key differences in the emission profile of paraffin vs 'non-toxic' alternatives.

Traditional Candles

Candles were originally developed as a source of light. Long before the advent of modern electricity, people needed a reliable way to illuminate their homes and extend productive hours into the night. Historically, the earliest candles were made from naturally available materials. One common material was tallow—rendered animal fat—which was widely used because it was readily available and relatively inexpensive. In addition to tallow, beeswax was a favored material, it was typically more expensive and used in religious or ceremonial settings.

Modern Candles

Modern candles are made for decoration and atmosphere instead of a source of light. In order to make them cheaper and easier to produce, manufactures shifted to artificial wax bases. The most common of these is paraffin wax, a derivative of petroleum and coal. Additionally, fragrances have shifted to chemical perfumes and additives. This allows for the wonderfully named, yet wholly unnatural, scents: azure sky, capri glow, afternoon scrapbooking, stargazing, and more.

These transitions, when combined with frequent indoor use, could be increasing your exposure to VOCs. These petrochemical byproducts are likely carcinogenic and can be an aerial irritant for your lungs.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a practice that uses essential oils and herbs to enhance physical and emotional well-being. It has well-documented benefits and has been a component of holistic medicine for millennia. Many people use candles as a way to create the sensory experience of aromatherapy.

One study showed that fundamentally, "candles without fragrance additives produce lower emissions... than candles with fragrance" (Salthammer). While these candles may not have the same aromatic effect, they do avoid creating additional VOCs from the oils and fragrant additives of their scented counterparts.

This does not mean that all scented candles are bad. Essential oils have a less harmful emission profile when compared to chemical fragrances. However, the quality of the oil, the method of incorporation, and the overall candle composition all play a role in determining the quality of a candle.

Beeswax Candles

Beeswax candles have become a popular choice among consumers seeking non toxic options. Their natural origin and clean-burning properties make them an attractive alternative to paraffin-based products.

Some research indicates that beeswax candles may produce fewer emissions of particulate matter compared to traditional candles. They most observable difference was in the chemical profile of the emissions where the beeswax contained less petrochemicals and carcinogens. Moreover, many anecdotal reviews highlighted the subtle, natural scent that beeswax provides, which complements their use in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Read our full review on beeswax candle brands here.

Soy Candles

Soy candles offer another promising alternative for those concerned about indoor pollutants. Made from soybean oil, soy wax is renewable and biodegradable (unlike paraffin), and research comparing different candle types suggests that soy candles tend to burn cleaner than their paraffin counterparts. Their lower melting point also contributes to a more consistent burn, making them a favored choice among eco-conscious consumers seeking both performance and sustainability.

Read our full review on soy candle brands here.

Other Non Toxic Candles

Other options include wood or straw-based materials like incense wicks, while coconut and traditional tallow serve as viable substitutes for paraffin in homemade candles.

Several of the studies we referenced recommended, "choose[ing] candles manufactured from natural materials, such as beeswax or soy wax, and scented with essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes, to reduce exposure to pollutants from scented candles".

Something to note is that no candles studied polluted the air to a degree considered intolerable by federal certification standards. Additionally, by simply adding ventilation and air circulation, the concentration of potentially harmful particulates drops significantly. In other words, cracking a window and turning on a fan could keep the potential risk of any candles at the bare minimum.

The Key Takeaways

To summarize:

Avoid candles with paraffin wax and unnatural fragrances
Look for natural waxes and essential oils from high quality sources
Ventilate rooms with a lit candle by opening the window or turning on a fan
Do not use around individuals with a predisposition to pulmonary conditions

Conclusion

Given the current breadth of published research, the best way to eliminate any potential exposure to airborne pollutants within your home is to simply avoid burning candles. However, if you are just looking for more natural alternatives to paraffin, there are options for you to consider. Beeswax candles, soy candles, and coconut wax candles—are all viable non toxic candles that will make your home feel cozy and aromatic while reducing the relative concentration of VOCs.

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Sources

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Kim PG, Lee A, Shin J, Song E, Koo Y, Sochichiu S, Mohamed DFMS, Choi S, Hong Y, Kwon JH. Increase of the indoor concentration of volatile organic compounds after the use of incense and scented candle in studio apartments determined using passive sampling. Chemosphere. 2024 Jul;359:142344. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142344. Epub 2024 May 14. PMID: 38754484.

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Rezaei, K., Wang, T. & Johnson, L.A. Combustion characteristics of candles made from hydrogenated soybean oil. J Amer Oil Chem Soc 79, 803–808 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11746-002-0562-y

Salthammer T, Gu J, Wientzek S, Harrington R, Thomann S. Measurement and evaluation of gaseous and particulate emissions from burning scented and unscented candles. Environ Int. 2021 Oct;155:106590. doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106590. Epub 2021 May 6. PMID: 33964641.

Singh A, Kumari A, Fatima L. Beyond Aromatherapy: Illuminating the Underappreciated Risks Associated with Scented Candle Exposure. Environ Sci Technol. 2023 Oct 17;57(41):15299-15300. doi: 10.1021/acs.est.3c07574. Epub 2023 Oct 4. PMID: 37794758.