Wax, fire, and comfort: Perm scientists share tips on how to choose safe candles.

Cheap Doesn't Mean Good

A candle, thanks to its wick soaked in wax or another flammable material, gradually emits light, creating an ambiance and enveloping the space in a charming aroma. They come in various forms: small and large, floating and sparkling, expensive designer pieces and relatively cheap options. Often, the affordability of home decorations raises questions about their eco-friendliness.

— The popularity of paraffin in candle production is attributed to its cost-effectiveness, ease of processing, good performance characteristics, and the ability to add various components to give candles desired properties. These factors make it appealing for both industrial and home manufacturing. Manufacturers value it for its stability, maintenance of aesthetic appearance, and resistance to high temperatures, which is crucial for long-term storage and transportation.

There are numerous brands of paraffin, differing in purity levels and areas of application. For candles, it is recommended to use highly refined food-grade paraffin, which is considered safer when burned. However, not all manufacturers adhere to this guideline, and less refined, potentially harmful petroleum wax options can be found on the market, as reported by Nikita Faustov, assistant professor of chemistry and biotechnology at Perm Polytechnic University.

Candles made from low-quality paraffin carry a hidden threat. The fact is that this is a product of crude oil processing, and burning it releases volatile organic compounds, such as benzene—a toxin that causes respiratory irritation, headaches, and allergic reactions. Toluene, which can irritate the skin and eyes, affects the nervous system with prolonged exposure. Moreover, such inexpensive candles produce a significant amount of smoke and soot, which settles on surfaces and exacerbates breathing issues, especially for those prone to asthma.

Soy and Coconut Alternatives

Soy candles have several significant advantages over traditional paraffin candles, making them a more eco-friendly, safe, and economical choice for creating a cozy atmosphere at home.

— Soy wax is a renewable resource. It is derived from soybeans grown on agricultural fields. Candles made from it burn cleaner and longer. When burned, they do not emit toxic substances such as benzene and toluene, which can cause respiratory irritation and other health issues. Soy wax also produces less soot, helping to keep walls and furniture clean. Additionally, it does not interfere with the aroma of essential oils, allowing them to fully express their fragrance, claims the expert.

Coconut wax, obtained from coconut oil, is a premium material that, like soy, burns very cleanly, almost without smoke and soot, making it safe for the respiratory system. Coconut wax candles have excellent scent throw, allowing the fragrance of essential oils to fully develop. Furthermore, it is considered environmentally friendly, as coconut palms, like soy, are a renewable resource.

Palm Wax is Safe, but Not for Nature

Palm wax is a natural ingredient derived from the fruit of the oil palm (Elaeis guineensis). It consists of a mixture of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, possessing a solid consistency and a creamy or slightly yellowish tint. In the production of burning decorations, this wax is valued for its ability to create unique crystalline patterns on the surface, as well as for its hardness, which allows candles to maintain their shape longer and burn more slowly. Additionally, it retains aromatic oils well, making it even more popular.

— However, the use of palm wax raises serious ecological debates. The primary issue is the expansion of oil palm plantations, leading to the deforestation of tropical forests, especially in Indonesia and Malaysia, which are the largest producers of palm oil. Deforestation not only results in the loss of biodiversity, including the extinction of rare and endangered species such as orangutans, tigers, and rhinos, but also contributes to increased greenhouse gas emissions, explains Nikita Faustov, an expert from Perm Polytechnic University.

Deforestation for the establishment of palm plantations is often accompanied by the draining of peatlands, which contain significant amounts of carbon. When drained, peatlands begin to decompose, releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and exacerbating the global warming issue.

Natural Candles Can Even Ionize the Air

Beeswax candles are not only an eco-friendly and natural solution for creating a magical atmosphere but also a potential ally in maintaining respiratory health. One of their key advantages is clean burning with minimal smoke and soot emissions, significantly improving indoor air quality compared to paraffin alternatives.

— The ability of beeswax to generate negative ions when burned is particularly interesting. While there is no direct scientific evidence that it cures lung diseases, the concept of negative ions and their effects on the respiratory system deserves attention. It is believed that negative ions bind with positively charged air pollutants, such as dust, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens, causing them to settle on surfaces and thereby cleansing the air of suspended particles. For individuals suffering from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions, this could potentially ease breathing and reduce symptoms associated with air pollution, adds Nikita Faustov, assistant professor of chemistry and biotechnology at Perm Polytechnic University.

It is important to emphasize that beeswax is not a medicine and does not replace professional medical care. However, as a complement to a healthy lifestyle and adherence to medical advice, using beeswax candles in a well-ventilated space can create a cleaner and more comfortable breathing environment, particularly for those with heightened sensitivity to air pollution.

Another Reason to Check the Composition

Unfortunately, many fragrances in candles contain phthalates, which are used to stabilize the scent. These can negatively impact the reproductive system and cognitive functions. Prolonged exposure to them is linked to various health issues, including asthma and allergies.

— Some synthetic fragrances may emit volatile organic compounds, which can also cause respiratory irritation and headaches. Natural essential oils derived from plants are considered safe, says Nikita Faustov.

The Trend of Massage Candles

— Massage candles are made from a blend of solid plant oils (coconut, shea, cocoa) and waxes (soy, beeswax). Oils such as jojoba, almond, and avocado are often added for skin softening and care. The melted candle can indeed be applied to the body, but it's essential to check the temperature to avoid burns. The composition should be enriched with essential oils that provide aromatherapeutic effects, while synthetic fragrances that mimic natural ones should be avoided, especially for allergy sufferers, reports Nikita Faustov, assistant professor of chemistry and biotechnology at Perm Polytechnic University.

It is crucial to carefully examine the composition and test a small amount of melted candle on a patch of skin to rule out individual intolerance to the components.