New Study: Scented Wax Melts May Pollute Your Home

A recent study has raised concerns about the safety of scented wax melts, often considered a safer alternative to traditional candles. Researchers found that aroma compounds released from these melts can react with indoor air pollutants, forming tiny particles that may pose health risks when inhaled.

How Scented Wax Melts Release More Compounds

Unlike traditional candles that burn to release fragrance, scented wax melts are heated directly, allowing more aroma compounds to spread into the air. According to a study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, this heating process increases the surface area of the wax, leading to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs are made up of hydrocarbons, which can react with other chemicals present in indoor air.

The Study and Its Findings

To better understand the potential risks, researchers from Purdue University conducted experiments in a model house that simulated a real indoor environment. They tested 15 commercially available wax melts, including scented varieties such as lemon, papaya, tangerine, and peppermint, as well as unscented ones.
First, they measured the baseline levels of air pollutants inside the house. Then, they turned on the wax warmer for two hours and continuously monitored the air quality. Their analysis found that scented wax melts released nanoparticles between 1 and 100 nanometers in size—comparable to those emitted by traditional candles.

Potential Health Risks

These nanoparticles are small enough to enter the respiratory system and even reach the bloodstream. Researchers suggest that prolonged exposure could pose health risks similar to those associated with gas stoves and combustion-based candles.
The main compounds released from the scented wax melts were terpenes, such as monoterpenes and monoterpenoids. When these terpenes interacted with ozone in the air, they formed sticky substances that clustered into nanoscale particles.
In contrast, unscented wax melts did not release terpenes or produce harmful nanoparticles, highlighting that fragrance ingredients play a significant role in particle formation.

Call for Further Research

Although this study provides valuable insights, researchers emphasize the need for further toxicology studies to determine the long-term effects of inhaling these nanoparticles. Understanding their potential health risks will help consumers make informed choices about indoor air quality and product safety.

Conclusion

While scented wax melts are popular for their pleasant aroma, this study suggests they may not be as safe as commonly believed. The release of nanoparticles during their use raises concerns about indoor air pollution and respiratory health. Until more research is conducted, individuals concerned about air quality may consider using unscented alternatives or ensuring proper ventilation when using scented wax melts indoors.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.