Why we only make unscented candles: A Cleaner Burn for a Healthier Home
At Gracious Glow, our commitment to clean living goes beyond aesthetics—it’s embedded in every candle we create. While the candle industry thrives on scents that promise nostalgia or calm, we’ve made an intentional decision to craft only unscented candles. This choice isn’t just about simplicity—it’s backed by science and made in the best interest of your health, your indoor environment, and your pets.
“Scented candles may emit VOCs comparable to secondhand smoke in enclosed spaces.”
— Journal of Environmental Health, 2014
Many scented candles—even those marketed as “natural”—release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned. VOCs are carbon-based chemicals that vaporize at room temperature and are known to contribute to indoor air pollution. Common VOCs emitted by scented candles include benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, and limonene—chemicals linked to respiratory irritation, hormone disruption, and even cancer.
A 2009 study conducted by researchers at South Carolina State University found that paraffin-based scented candles emit harmful chemicals such as alkanes, alkenes, and toluene when burned indoors, particularly in spaces with poor ventilation [1]. Similarly, research published in Environmental Health Perspectives revealed that limonene, a citrus-scented compound found in many fragrances, reacts with indoor ozone to form formaldehyde, a known carcinogen [2].
“When limonene reacts with indoor ozone, it forms formaldehyde—a recognized human carcinogen.”
— Environmental Health Perspectives, 2001
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has long warned of the health impacts of VOCs, citing symptoms such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and potential damage to the liver and central nervous system with long-term exposure [3]. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Environmental Health found that emissions from fragranced consumer products—including candles—can significantly degrade indoor air quality and trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals [4].
“VOCs from scented candles don’t just add scent—they can also contribute to long-term health effects like asthma, hormone disruption, and even cancer.”
— EPA.gov, 2023
And it’s not just about us—pets are particularly at risk from the invisible toxins emitted by scented candles. With smaller bodies, faster respiratory rates, and their proximity to the floor (where VOCs settle), pets often experience the effects of poor indoor air quality more intensely than humans. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), synthetic fragrances and combustion byproducts can lead to respiratory issues, especially in birds, and may aggravate conditions in dogs and cats with sensitivities [5].
“Birds, cats, and dogs are especially sensitive to scented candle emissions due to their size and breathing patterns.”
— American Veterinary Medical Association
This is why at Gracious Glow, we’ve chosen to be 100% fragrance-free. Our candles are made without synthetic or natural fragrance oils, phthalates, or paraffin wax. The result is a clean-burning, pet-safe candle that complements your space without compromising your health. Whether you're dealing with allergies, migraines, asthma, or simply value pure, breathable air, our candles offer a gentle ambiance that respects your air and everyone in it.
“Choosing an unscented candle is not just a personal preference—it’s a commitment to clean living and safer spaces.”
— Gracious Glow
When you light a Gracious Glow candle, you’re not just adding warmth to your room—you’re choosing better air quality, non-toxic ingredients, and peace of mind. We believe light should lift you up, not weigh you down.
References
Massoudi, R., & Hamidi, A. (2009). Emissions from burning scented candles and incense sticks in indoor environments. South Carolina State University Chemistry Department.
Nazaroff, W.W., & Weschler, C.J. (2001). Indoor chemistry: cleaning agents, ozone and toxic air contaminants. Environmental Health Perspectives, 109(Suppl 6), 957–958. https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.01109s6957
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Volatile Organic Compounds’ Impact on Indoor Air Quality. https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality
Steinemann, A. (2014). Fragranced consumer products: exposures and effects from emissions. Journal of Environmental Health, 76(9), 46–53.
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Household Hazards: Pet Toxins and Safety Tips. https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/household-hazards
