Are There Phthalates in Your Candles? What You Should Know
When you light a candle, you expect a warm glow and a lovely scent—not hidden chemicals. One ingredient to watch out for in candles is phthalates. While hard to say, it’s important to understand what they are and how they might affect your health.
What Are Phthalates?
Phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are a group of chemicals used in many products. In candles, they’re often added to fragrance oils to help the scent last longer and spread through the air. They help the scent stick to the wax and improve “scent throw”—which means how far the fragrance travels when the candle is burning.
You’ll also find phthalates in other products like plastic toys, shampoo, nail polish, and even air fresheners. Their job is usually to make things softer or to help blend ingredients more smoothly.
Why Should You Care About Phthalates In Your Candles?
Not all phthalates are the same, but some have been linked to health problems. Certain phthalates are known as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can mess with the hormones your body naturally produces. Over time, and with enough exposure, this could possibly lead to issues with reproduction, development, or even long-term health problems.
When you burn a candle that contains phthalates, these chemicals can be released into the air, so you breathe them in or potentially come into contact with them through your skin. While a single candle might not cause harm, regular exposure in your home can add up over time—especially for people with asthma, allergies, or young children in the house.
What Should You Look For?
The good news is, many candle companies are now offering phthalate-free candles. These products use safer alternatives, like natural essential oils or clean fragrance blends that don’t contain harmful chemicals.
Here are a few tips when shopping for candles:
- Look for labels that say “Phthalate-Free”
- Avoid candles with vague ingredients like “fragrance” unless the company says what’s inside
- Ask questions—good candle makers are happy to share what they use
Why It Matters
Candles are meant to make your space feel cozy, calming, and clean—not to fill the air with questionable ingredients. Choosing candles that are free of phthalates is a simple way to take better care of your health and the air in your home. Plus, many phthalate-free candles smell just as amazing—without the risks.
Ultimately, being an informed shopper helps you make choices that are better for your home, your health, and the environment. Next time you light a candle, you can breathe easy knowing exactly what’s in it.
