Introduction: A Flicker of Concern

Few things are as comforting as the soft glow of a candle or the indulgent scent of a wax melt filling a room. Whether it's for relaxation or creating a luxurious ambiance, scented products have become a staple in home fragrance.

However, concerns about safety often arise—do candles and wax melts contain harmful toxins? Can they cause headaches? And are essential oils really the better alternative?

At The Original Candle Company, we prioritise both luxury and well-being, crafting fragrance products that balance safety, sustainability, and sensory appeal. Let’s explore the facts.

 

Are Candles & Wax Melts Carcinogenic? Fact vs. Fiction

The debate surrounding home fragrance safety typically stems from studies on paraffin wax, which can release trace amounts of benzene and toluene when burned. While these compounds are associated with air pollution, the levels emitted from candles and wax melts are extremely low—far less than what’s encountered through cooking fumes or vehicle exhaust.

Additionally, wax melts, which do not rely on direct combustion, produce even fewer airborne emissions compared to candles. The absence of a wick and flame eliminates concerns about soot or particulate matter.

Choosing Safer Wax Blends

✔️ Clean-burning waxes like soy, coconut, or refined paraffin
✔️ Cotton wicks for candles, free from metal cores
✔️ Proper ventilation to maintain fresh indoor air
✔️ High-quality wax melts designed to melt evenly with minimal residue

At The Original Candle Company, we craft bespoke wax blends that ensure a smooth, luxurious burn while keeping emissions low—whether in candle form or wax melts.

 

Do Scented Candles & Wax Melts Cause Headaches? Understanding Fragrance Sensitivities

Many people associate home fragrance with calm and relaxation, yet some experience headaches, dizziness, or irritation after exposure to certain scents. This is often linked to synthetic fragrance compounds, which can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air.

At The Original Candle Company, we use fragrances with no to minimal VOCs, ensuring that our candles and wax melts provide rich, evocative aromas without unnecessary airborne chemicals.

While essential oil-based blends are often seen as a natural alternative, they come with their own drawbacks. Some potent essential oils—such as eucalyptus, tea tree, and citrus—can be overwhelming in enclosed spaces, leading to respiratory discomfort.

Additionally, essential oils can be harmful to pets, particularly cats and dogs. Oils like citrus, pine, and tea tree are known to cause liver toxicity or breathing difficulties in animals.

How to Enjoy Wax Melts & Candles Without Headaches

✨ Opt for luxury fragrance oils that mimic natural scents but are expertly formulated for home use.
✨ Keep spaces well-ventilated to prevent scent accumulation.
✨ Trim candle wicks to ¼ inch to reduce excessive smoke and soot.
✨ If you have pets, choose pet-safe alternatives or ensure proper airflow.
✨ Use wax warmers with adjustable temperature settings to control scent intensity.

 

Luxury & Well-Being: Choosing the Right Candle & Wax Melt

Home fragrance should elevate your space without compromise. Whether you prefer the flickering glow of a candle or the flameless indulgence of wax melts, quality matters.

At The Original Candle Company, we craft elegant home fragrances with bespoke soy-paraffin wax blends, ensuring a refined scent throw and minimal emissions. Our products are infused with fragrances containing no to minimal VOCs, providing safe, sophisticated aromas without unnecessary toxins.

Explore Our Collection

Discover our beautifully crafted candles and wax melts, each designed to be luxurious, clean-burning, and unforgettable.

Indulge in fragrance—responsibly and exquisitely.