Scents mean things to so many different people, whether they have a signature scent, or one that reminds them of a past event. Candles and perfumes are things that many people use every day to make their homes smell nice or to feel more put-together. But have you ever thought about whether these products are actually bad for your health? It turns out, they might be.

One of the main problems with candles is the chemicals that are released into the air when they burn. Most candles are made from paraffin wax, which is a by-product of petroleum. When paraffin candles are lit, they release harmful substances, like benzene and toluene, into the air. These substances can cause headaches, nausea, and even long-term health problems like asthma or cancer if you’re exposed to them frequently. “I don’t really burn candles since my mom insists that they’re bad for your health,” Katie Ruoo (12) says. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these chemicals can be harmful when inhaled in large amounts, especially in poorly ventilated areas.

Another issue with candles is the wicks. Many candles have wicks made from lead, which can be dangerous if inhaled. Although lead wicks have been banned in many countries, some candles still use metal-based wicks, which can contain trace amounts of lead. This is especially concerning for people who burn candles regularly. Inhaling the smoke from these candles could potentially cause lead poisoning, which is very harmful, particularly for young children.

When it comes to perfumes, they also have their own set of risks. Perfumes often contain synthetic chemicals like phthalates, which are used to help the fragrance last longer. Phthalates have been linked to hormone disruption, which can cause a range of health issues, including reproductive problems and developmental issues in children. “I am aware of the toxins candles produce; however I was unaware that perfume had toxins!” exclaims Jennalyn Urquico (12). The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has reported that many perfumes have a combination of chemicals that aren’t listed on the label, which makes it hard for consumers to know exactly what they’re putting on their skin. Jennalyn continues, “I can definitely go without burning candles, but with perfume, that’d be difficult. I’d probably just start using lots of scented soaps or scrubs instead of perfume.”

Furthermore, both candles and perfumes can trigger allergic reactions in some people. The fragrances used in candles and perfumes are often made from a mixture of chemicals that can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions may find that these products make their symptoms worse. Even if you don’t have asthma, prolonged exposure to these chemicals can irritate your lungs, leading to symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.

While candles and perfumes can make a space smell good or enhance the way we feel, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers they pose to our health. If you’re concerned about the risks, consider switching to soy or beeswax candles, which don’t release harmful chemicals when burned, or look for perfumes that are labeled as natural or free from harmful chemicals. “At night, I enjoy filling my humidifier with essential oils as a means of relaxing and making my room smell nice!” Katie assures. Meanwhile Hailey Whitehurst (12) argues that “Essential oil diffusers do not do it for me. I really prefer the cozy warm glow that candles have.” Regardless, by being more mindful of what we use, we can help protect our health and well-being.