In recent years, the use of scented candles has gained popularity among the youth.

They use them not only to create a calming atmosphere but to add a touch of style to their living spaces.

From bedrooms and study corners to cafés and beauty studios, they have become a key part of the aesthetic often showcased on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.

Dr Wiredu explained that “many commercial scented candles are made from paraffin wax, which is a byproduct of petroleum. When burned, they can release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) such as benzene, a known carcinogen and toluene, which may cause other serious health effects.

These chemicals, she said, could linger in the air, especially in small rooms with poor ventilation, and over time, breathing in such toxins could irritate the lungs and affect indoor air quality.

“While occasional use is unlikely to cause immediate harm, people who light scented candles daily, particularly in unventilated spaces, are at a higher risk of long-term exposure,” she noted.

Dr Wiredu noted that although there is no direct evidence that scented candles alone caused cancer, the concern lies in cumulative exposure to multiple indoor air pollutants.

“Cancer doesn’t happen overnight. It builds over years, sometimes decades, due to repeated exposure to harmful substances. When you combine emissions from candles with other indoor pollutants like air fresheners, dust, cleaning sprays or cigarette smoke, the risk increases,” she added.

Citing a 2009 study by South Carolina State University in the United States, she said it was found that burning paraffin wax candles could release harmful chemicals into the air, potentially linked to cancer and asthma.

More recent studies suggest that while the levels may be low, regular exposure could still be problematic for certain groups, especially children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma. 

Apart from the wax itself, the fragrance used in candles is another concern.

Dr Wiredu explained that many candles were scented with synthetic fragrance oils, which could emit phthalates, chemicals known to disrupt hormones.

“Phthalates are used to help scents last longer, but they have been linked to hormonal imbalances and reproductive health issues. Inhaling these chemicals repeatedly is not something we should take lightly, especially for children and women of childbearing age,” she said. 

According to Dr Wiredu, not all candles are bad. She noted that natural wax alternatives like soy, beeswax and coconut wax burn cleaner and are generally safer.

“These options are biodegradable and don’t release as many toxins into the air. Even better, look for candles that use natural essential oils instead of artificial fragrances,” she advised.

She also encouraged consumers to pay attention to labels. 

“If a candle doesn’t list what type of wax or fragrance it uses, that’s usually a red flag. Transparency is key when it comes to your health.”

Even if someone prefers to keep using their favourite scented candles, Dr Wiredu said some practical tips such as always burning candles in a well-ventilated room, limiting burn time to under two hours, trimming the wick to a quarter inch before each use to minimise smoke, avoiding candles with dark soot or strong artificial smells and never sleeping with candles burning could help reduce health risks.

“Candles can still be part of your relaxation routine, but moderation and awareness are important,” she said.

For people looking to create an ambience without health concerns, Dr Wiredu recommended natural alternatives like reed diffusers with essential oils, indoor plants that purify the air or open windows and fans to improve airflow.

Addressing issues of public awareness, Dr Wiredu said despite growing global awareness of indoor air pollution, public education in Ghana and across many African countries remained limited.

“Many people associate pollution with factories and cars, but they forget about what’s happening inside their own homes. We need more conversations around indoor air quality and how it affects long-term health,” she said.

She added that while regulations for food and water safety existed, there were few local guidelines for everyday household products like candles and air fresheners.

“It’s important that consumers push for safer products and that health authorities consider stronger regulations to protect the public,” she urged.

“You don’t need to throw out all your candles. Just be informed about what you’re breathing in. Your lungs and your future self will thank you,” she said.