I made a joke on Instagram today about fainting at someone else's house. And while I was kinda kidding... there is a truth to the feeling of becoming more sensitive to synthetic fragrance and toxins once you remove them from your own home.
When you stop using synthetic fragrance your body & senses become more attuned to the chemicals you've eliminated. Mainly because your desensitisation has been reversed. You see, when you use toxins constantly your body becomes desensitised, meaning you won't notice the smells of the negative health effects as much. When you stop using them, your body and senses reset, making you far more aware and conscious of the chemicals you previously ignored.
The use of scented candles and air fresheners in homes is usually to help create a certain atmosphere, and a common misconception is that a nicer smelling home is a cleaner one. However, the use of synthetic fragrance doesn't purify or clean the air, it just masks it with a stronger odour, and what so many people don't realise is that those odours can also be really harmful to our health. Let's take a deep dive...
The Hidden Dangers of Air Fresheners
Air fresheners are ubiquitous in homes, often used to mask unpleasant odours and create a more inviting environment. However, these seemingly harmless products can pose significant health risks.
1. Chemical Exposure: Many air fresheners contain a cocktail of chemicals, including phthalates, formaldehyde, and benzene. These substances can be harmful when inhaled and may contribute to respiratory issues, headaches, and even hormonal disruptions. Studies have shown that phthalates, for instance, can interfere with hormone function and have been linked to reproductive health issues.
2. Respiratory Problems: The fine particles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by air fresheners can irritate the respiratory tract. For children, whose lungs and immune systems are still developing, this can be particularly dangerous. Chronic exposure to these pollutants can exacerbate asthma and lead to other respiratory issues.
3. Allergic Reactions: The fragrances used in air fresheners often contain allergens that can trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities. This is especially concerning for individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or allergies, who may find their symptoms worsening.
The Risks Associated with Scented Candles
Scented candles are another popular choice for enhancing home ambiance, but they, too, come with their own set of risks.
1. Toxic Emissions: Many scented candles are made from paraffin wax, which is a byproduct of petroleum. When burned, paraffin candles release a range of toxic substances, including benzene and toluene. These chemicals can contribute to indoor air pollution and have been linked to respiratory problems and cancer.
2. Fragrance Ingredients: The synthetic fragrances used in candles often contain phthalates, which, as mentioned earlier, can disrupt hormone function and have been linked to various health issues. Even “natural” candles might use essential oils that, while less harmful, can still cause respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.
Women and children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air fresheners and scented candles. For pregnant women, the exposure to certain chemicals can potentially affect fetal development. For children, whose immune and respiratory systems are still maturing, the risks are even more pronounced. Children may experience heightened sensitivity to the chemicals and allergens released by these products.
Fortunately, there are safer alternatives for those who love a pleasant-smelling home but want to avoid the health risks associated with conventional air fresheners and candles. Essential oil diffusers provide a natural way to infuse your home with fragrance without the harmful chemicals found in traditional products. (SHOP MY FAVOURITES BELOW!)
MY FAVOURITE ALTERNATIVES TO CANDLES & AIR FRESHENERS:
For candle lovers who want to create the atmosphere without the toxins, try these brands of organic beeswax candles
And you can create the beautiful aromas using pure essential oils & a diffuser. Here are some of my favourite diffuser blends for candle lovers (shop oils and diffusers using my link below for 25% off!)
10 Diffuser Blend Recipes for Candle Lovers
Vanilla Bean
Inspired by: Vanilla Bean Candle
3 drops Bergamot
2 drops Cedarwood
1 drop Vanilla (if available) or Frankincense
Warm Cinnamon Roll
Inspired by: Cinnamon Roll Candle
3 drops Cinnamon Bark
2 drops Vanilla
1 drop Clove
Pumpkin Spice
Inspired by: Pumpkin Spice Candle
3 drops Cinnamon Bark
2 drops Ginger
1 drop Clove
Winter Pine
Inspired by: Pine-Scented Candle
3 drops Cypress
2 drops Cedarwood
1 drop Frankincense
Lavender Fields
Inspired by: Lavender Candle
3 drops Lavender
2 drops Geranium
1 drop Ylang Ylang
Cozy Fireside
Inspired by: Fireside Candle
3 drops Cedarwood
2 drops Frankincense
1 drop Sandalwood
Citrus Bliss
Inspired by: Citrus Candle
3 drops Wild Orange
2 drops Grapefruit
1 drop Lemon
Fresh Linen
Inspired by: Fresh Linen Candle
3 drops Lavender
2 drops Lemon
1 drop Peppermint
Spiced Apple
Inspired by: Apple Pie Candle
3 drops Wild Orange
2 drops Cinnamon Bark
1 drop Clove
Coastal Breeze
Inspired by: Ocean Breeze Candle
3 drops Lavender
2 drops Peppermint
1 drop Eucalyptus
4 DIY Air Freshener Recipes
Citrus Freshener
1 cup water
1 tablespoon vodka or witch hazel
10 drops Lemon
5 drops Orange
Calming Spray
1 cup water
1 tablespoon or vodka witch hazel
10 drops Lavender
5 drops Chamomile
Minty Freshness
1 cup water
1 tablespoon vodka or witch hazel
10 drops Peppermint
5 drops Spearmint
Cinnamon Spice
1 cup water
1 tablespoon vodka or witch hazel
10 drops Cinnamon Bark
5 drops Clove
Need essential oils? I'm your girl.
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