What makes a candle “bad” for your health?
Yes—some candles are genuinely harmful due to the materials used. The biggest culprits include:
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Paraffin wax: A petroleum byproduct that releases benzene and toluene, both linked to cancer when burned in enclosed spaces.
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Synthetic fragrance oils: Often loaded with phthalates, which can disrupt hormones.
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Lead-core wicks: While banned in many countries, they still exist in some imported or low-quality candles.
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Chemical dyes: These may release toxic fumes when burned at high temperatures.
To avoid these, shop from trusted brands like Karessa Candles, where everything is clean-burning, phthalate-free, and made with natural soy wax.
What are the health risks of bad candles?
Burning low-quality candles in unventilated spaces over time can lead to:
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Headaches
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Dizziness
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Allergies or sneezing
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Eye, nose, and throat irritation
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Worsened asthma symptoms
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Black soot buildup on walls and ceilings
Switching to safer options like Karessa’s handmade soy candles can help reduce these risks dramatically.
What candles are safest to burn?
Look for candles that say:
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100% soy wax, coconut wax, or beeswax
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Phthalate-free fragrance oils or essential oils
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Cotton or wooden wicks, not metal
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Non-toxic and cruelty-free
That’s exactly what we offer in our non-toxic candle collection at Karessa Candles—clean-burning, safe, and thoughtfully designed.
Are unscented candles safer than scented ones?
Not always. An unscented paraffin candle can still release harmful fumes. On the other hand, a scented candle made with natural ingredients like those in our aromatherapy range can be safer and even beneficial for your mood and health.
How can I tell if my candle is bad?
Ask yourself:
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Does it give you a headache quickly?
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Do you see black soot marks nearby?
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Does the candle tunnel or burn unevenly?
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Is there no ingredient list?
If the answer is yes to any of the above, it may be time to upgrade to safer, high-quality candles like Karessa’s handcrafted jars.
Final Word
Yes, bad candles exist, and they can silently affect your air and your health. But you don’t have to give up on ambiance—just switch to non-toxic, thoughtfully crafted candles from Karessa Candles. They’re beautiful, soothing, and most importantly—safe.
