dailystar.co.uk
29.03.2022 / 20:59
47%
735
Chemist explains why candles and air fresheners should never be used in homes
TikTok video watched more than 1.8million times about the risks of using fragrances.In the video, he says: "There have been a lot of clinical studies that have come out recently showing that frequently burning indoor candles can cause serious health problems."He said these included "inhibiting the ability of cells, especially in the bladder, to grow normally".Dr Gubler explained: "When we think of pollution we think of it as an outdoor thing but indoor pollution caused by burning candles, air fresheners, and other sources, is a big problem."Candles are made out of cheap paraffin wax, they’re made out of artificial fragrances and dyes, and when we burn that it gives off carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, Benzopyrene, and other volatile compounds."They’re not good for the body, they interfere with the body’s ability to reproduce [cells]."His video sparked a debate and thousands of people left comments, with many saying they were sticking to using candles indoors.One user commented: "This world is trying to take away everything I love.""No random dude on the internet is going to take candles from me," wrote a second person.Another viewer commented: "I feel like we need to pick our battles here."A few people were more supportive of the message, with one writing: "But really, what's the point of candles? "A clean house and some flowers like jasmine, peonies, or even roses can make your room smell really nice."Someone else said: "Love this content! Can you please do one on household air fresheners?"Dr Gubler said research indicated soya candles were safer to use than paraffin or beeswax candles but all of them emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs).