Why All-Natural?
Aromatherapy can be traced back to at least 6,000 years and is still just as common today as it was back then. Although, the way many consume these products has changed, with candles and wax melts being one of the most popular forms. Those who purchase these products are under the impression that they are getting a natural and safe product with all the aromatherapy benefits. However, lack of transparency has allowed for the candle and wax melt industry to provide tons of misinformation and deceitful labeling that is hiding just how toxic many of these products are. Even a quick Google search will unfortunately prove that many well-known big candle/wax melt brands are guilty of this. “Food-grade paraffin” or “mineral wax” is still unsafe paraffin wax. Other products contain paraffin wax blended with soy wax for a “para-soy blend” or “soy blend” or synthetic fragrance oils mixed with essential oils disguised as being natural, when they are in fact not. When you inhale these materials, the molecules are carried throughout your body, so it’s important for your health and the health of those who may be exposed to them in your home to know exactly what is in these products.
With Hemp Makes Scents all-natural hemp infused wax melts, you not only get a 3-in-1 product (an aromatherapy wax melt and a moisturizing massage oil with the added benefits of hemp oil), but also a product you can feel safe using knowing that all of these possible health concerns are mitigated.
Paraffin
Most scented candles and wax melts are made from paraffin wax or a blended wax with paraffin making up a portion of that blend. This wax, especially when combined with synthetic fragrance oils, is easier to produce a favorable hot throw (the strength of the scent that is released when the wax is melted) with. Paraffin is derived from petroleum which is a byproduct of crude oil. When the paraffin wax is heated, it releases toxic compounds into the air, including acetone, benzene and toluene— known carcinogens that have been linked to lung cancer and asthma. They can also cause kidney damage. All of these toxic compounds also worsen conditions for those who already have asthma, lung and heart problems. A study was even conducted at South Carolina State University that found melting paraffin wax-based candles did in fact emit toxic toluene and benzene, while soy wax did not as reported by CNN.
Synthetic Fragrance Oils
The majority of popular candle and wax melt companies use synthetic fragrance oils in their products. Not only are they a cheaper way to add fragrance, but they also can provide a stronger fragrance and a wider variety of scents. Despite this, many people are sensitive to these smells and they can often trigger headaches/migraines and nausea. Some can even contain allergens and neurotoxins that affect the immune system and nervous system. They can be damaging to the lungs, liver, kidneys and reproductive system. Additionally, these SFOs are known to contain endocrine disruptors which interfere with development, growth, reproduction and intelligence. This is due to the long list of hazardous chemicals that make up these artificial fragrances, phthalates being one of the most prevalent ones.
Metal-Core Wicks
Metal-core wicks are made from cotton that is wrapped around a metal support. The use of lead wicks was banned in the United States in 2003, however zinc and tin wicks have now taken their place. These may seem like a safer alternative, but unfortunately all metal-core wicks still release small amounts of heavy metals into the air when burned. Additionally, lead wicks may still be present in imported candles, especially those imported from Mexico and China. Unless you are certain that the wick does not contain any metal, such as a cotton or wooden wick, a better choice would be to use soy wax melts instead, thus eliminating the risk completely.