Most people associate candles with coziness, relaxation, and good vibes, but what if I told you that the candle industry is anything but zen? Firstly, this blog will examine how big companies sacrifice their customers' health for profit. Next, we'll explore the five most common hazardous chemicals in candles. Lastly, you'll see how to avoid these dangerous chemicals and live a happy healthy life without sacrificing the things you love. So sit back, and join us on this journey into the world of candles.
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The candle industry is a competitive market valued at about 6 billion globally. Most of that comes from the United States alone, which is valued at 3.14 billion, with the average household purchasing around 47 candles. Companies rely on harmful chemicals and other hazardous substances in this competitive market to outperform and underprice their competitors. Candles fall under the jurisdiction of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, but there are no specific regulations regarding the candle's ingredients or labels. This gives candle manufacturers the power to put what they want into the candles. The ways that candle companies abuse this power are disgusting.
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Killer Candles
Paraffin wax, which is commonly used in candles due to its low cost, is a byproduct of crude oil refining. When melted it releases known carcinogens such as benzene and toluene. These chemicals can cause headaches, nausea, and cancer. Despite the potential health concerns, companies still use paraffin wax due to its cheap cost. There are healthier alternatives such as soy wax. The only problem is soy wax costs almost double the cost of paraffin wax. Since there are no restrictions on paraffin wax, candle companies have to choose whether or not they take advantage of their customers. The sad part is that using harmful chemicals to have higher profit margins is normalized so people have to suffer the consequences of these multimillion-dollar corporations.
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Surprisingly, the wax is the least harmful part of a candle. Fragrance Chemicals are extremely toxic and should not be overlooked. 5 main groups of harmful chemicals are commonly found in candles: Reproductive Toxins, Mutagens, Carcinogens, Organ Toxins, and Acute Toxins. First, let's talk about the negative side effects of Reproductive Toxins. Reproductive Toxins can lead to serious birth defects, developmental delays, and other health issues. They also disrupt the body's natural hormonal balance which can lead to numerous health concerns including cancer. Next, we have Mutagens, Mutagens can cause mutations in genes that are important for survival and reproduction. Mutagens can also cause mutations in sperm or egg cells which can cause genetic disorders that will be passed on through generations. Then we have Carcinogens, candles are burned quite commonly and for extended periods. If you're burning toxic candles this causes chronic exposure to carcinogens. Since you are repetitively exposing yourself to carcinogens your likelihood of getting cancer has significantly increased. After that we have Organ Toxins, Organ Toxins can affect your nervous system and cause neurotoxicity. Symptoms of neurotoxicity are dizziness, headaches, memory loss, and seizures. Lastly let's talk about Acute Toxins, some symptoms of Acute toxins can develop within minutes including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, seizures, and even death. Even being exposed to these toxins once can lead to long-term health problems within your liver kidneys and other vital organs.
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The majority of the time when people hear this information their mind looks for alternatives. The most popular alternative when it comes to health-conscious people is essential oils. While essential oils are the healthier alternative they are not designed for candles and can be toxic to your health. Side effects of essential oils in candles can include Nausea, headaches, Vomiting, Toxicity, Allergic Reactions, and Respetory Irritation. The problem lies when you are repetitively exposed to essential oils in candles. You might not feel the effects immediately but symptoms may develop over time after chronic exposure. Essential oils are also highly flammable and have been known to start fires if not closely monitored.
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Finally, let's discuss the single most dangerous chemical in candles. Phthalates. The undoubtedly most dangerous chemical in candles, which according to multiple studies is used in over 90% of all candles, is phthalates. In the candle industry, phthalates are used as solvents to help bind the fragrance to the wax while also extending the life of the candles and allowing the scent to be released more over time. The only way to remove it is by finding replacements for each ingredient which can take years to do. So, why is there growing concern about phthalates? Phthalates are endocrine disrupters, which means they interfere with the body's hormone system. Exposure to phthalates has been linked to a range of health problems such as reproductive and developmental issues and an overall increased risk of cancers. The risks are higher, especially for people with preexisting conditions such as asthma.
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Finding the Right Candle
Over the past 50 years, candle makers have developed lots of lucrative business strategies to sell more candles. One of these practices is called greenwashing. Candle companies often use greenwashing to make their products appear healthy and eco-friendly and healthy but in reality, they are far from it. You may have seen candles labeled with misleading terms such as "soy-based" or "clean burning". The truth is that these terms don't mean what these companies want you to believe. For example, when companies say "clean burning" may mean that the candle doesn't produce visible soot, but still will emit harmful chemicals. Some companies also use misleading packaging that may look recycled but in reality, they are made of cheap plastics. All these misleading tricks that companies use aren't easily avoidable.
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Finding a truly healthy and natural candle can be an extremely difficult task. Many candle companies use unregulated synthetic fragrances, paraffin wax, and other harmful chemicals. Even "natural" candles still use essential oils which can be toxic as well as use deceiving terms to confuse their customers into believing that their product is healthier than it is. Looking for a trusted company that includes no phthalates, acute toxins, mutagens, organ toxins, carcinogens, or reproductive toxins is hard. Luckily here at Wavewick, we understand your struggle that's why we are candle science certified clean. With our nontoxic hand-poured soy wax candles, we are sure you will continue to love candles even after everything you just heard. We also understand the environmental impacts that candles cause. That is why we donate 10% of our profits to ocean cleanup. Join us on our mission to create a more sustainable healthy future.