Truth or Scare: Are Candles Toxic?

Burning candles does release potentially harmful substances into the air, but the quantities are too low to make you sick.

Dr. Mike introduces the topic of whether burning candles indoors emits toxic chemicals that can cause health problems, comparing it to smoking a cigarette.

Burning anything releases chemicals into the air, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like Benzene and formaldehyde, and particulate matter. These can increase the risk of cancer and respiratory diseases.

Soot is caused by incomplete combustion. Phalates, found in scented candles, are endocrine disruptors. Paraffin wax may produce more VOCs and soot than natural waxes but differences are small.

Burning candles releases low levels of chemicals, with scented candles potentially releasing more soot. Studies show that VOC levels from candles are within safe indoor air quality limits.

Tips to minimize soot: trim the wick, remove debris, extinguish before smoldering, avoid drafts, and never leave candles unattended. Also, detoxes are unnecessary.