Scented Candle FAQ — What You Want to Know

Are Scented Candles Safe?

Yes, safely made and properly burned scented candles are safe. However, it's important to know what you're burning:

• Most concerns stem from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and soot particles, which can come from wax, fragrance, or wicks.

• Paraffin candles (a petroleum byproduct) are most often tied to these concerns. They can release harmful VOCs like benzene and formaldehyde, which may increase respiratory irritation and cancer risk if burned frequently in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces.

• According to the expert consensus and regulatory safety testing, when you burn candles in a ventilated area, trim the wick, and don’t burn them continuously for more than 3 - 4 hours, the risks are minimized.

Tip: Opt for soy, beeswax, or coconut wax for a cleaner burn and reduced soot production.

What’s the Difference: Soy vs. Paraffin Wax?

Best for Clean Air: Soy or Coconut wax candles with cotton or wood wicks.

Fun fact: Some candles can melt into massage oil, like 100% soy candles or coconut wax with added natural oils.

Why Doesn't My Candle Smell?

Here’s the science of “scent throw”:

• Paraffin releases fragrance quickly and strongly when lit, thanks to higher volatility.

• Soy burns more slowly and steadily but needs a wax pool to get aroma flowing (Recommended first burn:  2 - 3 hours to prevent tunneling).

• Strong scents in cold rooms might be dulled. Try lighting the candle in a warmer spot or doing a "burn rotation" every few hours.

Want stronger smell? Try a deeper scent profile: 3 things matter most: wax type, wick size, fragrance oil quality.

What Happens if I Burn Candles Every Day?

Burning candles daily, especially paraffin varieties, can slightly increase indoor VOCs like toluene and benzene, but only if they’re left lit all day and in poorly ventilated spaces.

To improve your indoor air:

• Use candles in well-ventilated areas

• Trim the wick to ¼″ before each burn

• Limit burning time to 3 - 4 hours per session

• Avoid candles with synthetic phthalates in the scent oils, which may affect air quality and health.

How Long Do Scented Candles Last?

• Soy candles: Usually 60–100 hours

• Paraffin candles: 50–80 hours—burn hotter and faster.

• Beeswax candles: Longest life (~150 hours+), naturally scentless unless blended.

They don’t spoil like food, but the scent oils can evaporate. Store candles in a dark, cool (50 - 85°F) place away from light or scents like detergents or perfumes to retain fragrance longer.

Are Candles Safe Around Pets?

Not always, some scented candles contain xylene, benzene, or mild pesticides (if soy or beeswax is contaminated). These are mostly volatile and dispersing with heat.  Laguna Candles uses Vegan certified Coconut wax and phthalates free fragrances, so our candles are safe around pets.  

Choose:

• 100% soy or beeswax or coconut wax candles with natural fragrance oils

• Wooden wicks (they burn cleaner)

• Unbleached cotton wicks

• Avoid candles with “lead core” or “metal” wicks (these are now banned in the U.S. but still circulate)

Candles and Mood: Do They Actually Help?

Yes! Burning candles with certain scents like:

The warm glow + subtle scent can trigger dopamine release and reduce cortisol levels (“cortisol stars” are a thing) — it’s called olfactory therapy.

Try running a scent rotation: Use different scents for AM / PM or relax/energize routines.