Candle Facts.
Did you Know?
-Most candles are made with paraffins. Paraffin wax, which most big corporate companies use, is petroleum waste that is chemically bleached, giving you the white color of most waxes used. Paraffins are not only unclean, but they also are not biodegradable.
-Ever wonder what that black cloud of smoke is when you first light your candle (especially if you don’t trim it before hand)? Soot is your answer. Soot is created and release from paraffin wax blends, which can cause damage to your lungs, disrupt those who have asthma, and even lead to heart problems. Not only can soot be harmful to you and your loved ones, but it can also cause damage to computers, the ductwork in your home, and even get lodged in your electrical appliances.
-Give much thought as to why your store bought candle was able to last so long? Or how your scent just never seemed to fade away? Phthalates. A phthalate is a chemical compound added to plastics, in order to give them longevity (or in this case to give your store bought candles a potent long lasting fragrance).
-Phthalates have been linked to endocrine/hormonal disruptions, decreasing sperm count, and sometimes can cause birth defects to babies. These phthalates can be linked to developmental issues and also be an allergen.
-“Aromatherapy” candles that are seen on the shelves of big corporate stores, are also scented with synthetic oils. Which in return release microscopic particles that can cause cancer.
-Ever heard of benzene or toluene? Just some fancy words also known as carcinogens. Both of these carcinogens are a byproduct of paraffins.
-What exactly is benzene? Benzene is chemical that gives off a smell like petrol. This chemical can also be found in gas stations, motor exhaust, industrial emissions, and tobacco smoke. Benzene has been linked to cancer and when exposed for long periods of time can increase your risk of infections, weaken the immune system and for women, when it is breathed in for many months, can cause period irregularity/decrease the size of ovaries.
-And what about toluene? This chemical, also found in big corp candle products, is an aromatic hydrocarbon. It’s colorless and a great solvent. Toluene is produced when making gas, and also a smell that is associated with paint thinners. Ever wonder why some candles give you headaches/dizziness and/or irritate your throat and eyes? Probably because they are made with either benzene or toluene.