The main components of scented candles are essential oils and paraffin wax. Firstly, essential oils are purely plant-based and pose no harm to the body. But what about the paraffin wax component? 
Are scented candles poisonous? 
Scientists warn that romantic candlelight dinners or luxurious aromatherapy baths may be harmful to health. The smoke produced by many candles contains toxic substances that are associated with cancer, asthma and eczema. 
The researchers stated that occasionally lighting a candle will not cause any harm, but people should avoid using candles frequently in bathrooms and other poorly ventilated rooms. 
The ingredients of the scented candles may produce formaldehyde. 
In the scented candles, there is another essential chemical substance called limonene. Limonene is regarded as a safe substance. Its citrus fragrance is said to be refreshing and calming, so limonene is widely used in scented candles, air purifiers and cleaners. 


The latest research in the UK shows that limonene can easily combine with air to form formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a heavy industrial material used for preservation and is a carcinogen, causing great harm to the human body. During the test, the researchers asked each participant to write down the names of all the scented candles, air fresheners and cleaning products they used, as well as the frequency of their usage. Then, the researchers conducted tests in each household. 
The researchers stated that the chemical they found in the greatest quantity was limonene, which is a substance that gives products their citrus scent. The levels of this substance were also the highest in households that used scented candles and cleaning products the most. 
The paraffin component in scented candles is harmful to the body. 
Most of the scented candles sold on the market are made of solid paraffin wax. Moreover, these scented candles also contain many chemical substances, which, when combined with the air, will produce harmful substances to the body. 
Most of the candles sold in the UK (including scented candles) are made from solid paraffin wax. Solid paraffin wax is a by-product of the petroleum industry and can release potential harmful chemicals such as toluene and benzene. The more expensive beeswax and soy wax, on the other hand, were found to have no harmful substances in the tests. 
People who avoid scented candles 
Pregnant woman: After becoming pregnant, a woman's body undergoes various changes and becomes more sensitive to the environment. It is advisable to avoid using scented candles that are not suitable for pregnant women, as they may pose a risk to the baby in the womb. 
2. Infants and toddlers: Young children are in a crucial stage of physical development. The safety standards of the environment can affect their normal growth and development, and scented candles are not suitable for this age group.