Candle Safety: What Are Phthalates Anyway?

The term 'Phthalates' encompasses a group of chemicals widely utilised for various and varied applications. This chemical classification includes many types of phthalates, each tailored for specific purposes. One notable application is found in fragrance oils, prompting concerns among certain consumers as some phthalates within this group have been identified as potentially posing risks to human health.

Specifically, the phthalate raising concern is commonly employed as a 'plasticizer,' which provides flexibility to plastic products without compromising their structural integrity. It is essential to emphasize that this particular type of phthalate differs significantly from those employed in crafting fragrance oils for candles and perfumes.

Within the domain of fragrance oils, DEP (Diethyl Phthalate) is a prominent phthalate, serving as a solvent to augment the aromatic intensity of candle fragrance oils. Research findings indicate that DEP is non-toxic when utilized within safe levels in skin products and candles (IFRA – Background Paper – Phthalates – Final 12.2007).

It is pertinent to acknowledge that while some phthalates may have toxic properties, others are benign. Despite this diversity, phthalates are commonly grouped under the collective term 'phthalates,' leading some to avoid them in general.

In addressing concerns related to fragrance oils and candles, it is important to note that the fragrance oils utilized in the creation of Clare Makes candles are phthalate-free. This deliberate choice ensures the absence of any controversy surrounding the use of phthalates, underscoring our commitment to providing products that meet stringent safety standards.

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