Candle Scandle

The flicker of a scented candle is comforting on a dark, cold night. But beware that you’re not smelling trouble.

Heavily scented candles can release limonene, a chemical that reacts with ozone to create formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. And if a candle contains paraffin, a petroleum derivative, it may emit other chemicals that have been linked to cancer, as well as soot, which can irritate lungs.

While no candle is without health risks (even unscented, petroleum-free picks release some soot), 100% beeswax candles contain no chemicals and they have a subtle honey scent, supplied gratis by the bees.