phthalate free candles UK: what it actually means
phthalate free is one of those phrases that turns up on candle labels without much explanation. it sounds good. but what does it actually mean? should you care?
here's the honest version. i'm a candle maker, not a scientist, so i'll stick to what's useful when you're standing there deciding what to buy.
what are phthalates?
phthalates are a group of chemicals used in lots of everyday products. in fragrance they're often used to help a scent last longer and spread further.
some phthalates have been studied as possible hormone disruptors. several are already restricted in the UK and EU in products like toys and cosmetics. that's why a lot of people would rather not have them in something they burn at home every evening.
why are they in candles?
because they're in fragrance. most candle labels list the scent as "fragrance" or "parfum" and stop there, so you can't tell from the ingredients what's in the fragrance oil itself.
that's where phthalate free comes in. it means the fragrance oils were made without them.
how to check what you're buying
- look for it on the label or product page. brands that use phthalate free oils usually say so, because it's a deliberate choice.
- ask. a small brand should be able to tell you straight away. if they can't, that tells you something too.
- don't assume soy means phthalate free. the wax and the fragrance are two separate things. a soy candle can still use fragrance oils that contain phthalates.
- be wary of "non toxic". it's a marketing phrase, not a regulated one. specific claims are more useful than vague ones.
what about the allergen label?
candles sold in the UK carry a safety label (CLP information) listing certain fragrance ingredients, such as linalool or coumarin. that's a legal requirement and you'll find it on good candles too. it isn't a sign that something's been done wrong. it's there so people with sensitivities can check.
what's in a blissli candle
every blissli candle and wax melt is hand-poured with soy wax and fragrance oils that are free from phthalates and parabens. they're vegan and cruelty-free, in recyclable or biodegradable packaging. the jars are made to be reused.
if you want the longer story of why i started making them this way, why we actually care about what goes in our candles covers it. what makes a candle truly eco-friendly? goes into the packaging side.
phthalate free candles: questions
are phthalate free candles safer?
they leave out one group of chemicals that a lot of people prefer to avoid. whatever candle you burn, the basics still apply: keep the wick trimmed, keep the room aired and don't leave it burning unattended.
are soy candles phthalate free?
not automatically. soy is the wax. phthalates come from the fragrance. check that the fragrance oils are phthalate free too.
how can i tell if a candle is phthalate free?
look for a clear claim on the label or product page, or ask the brand directly.
are blissli candles phthalate free?
yes. all blissli candles and wax melts use fragrance oils free from phthalates and parabens.
you read the label on your skincare. it's fair to read the one on your candle too.