eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

Fact Sheet

The Effects of Breathing Parrafin Wax

Contributor
By Stephen Venneman
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Paraffin wax has a wide variety of uses, from skin treatments to candles However, since paraffin is a by-product of petroleum production, there are a number of health concerns one should keep in mind when selecting types of wax for candles or home spa treatments.

    Aromatherapy

  1. Essential oils added to paraffin wax can aid in calming with aromatherapy by evenly diffusing the oil and bringing the aroma to the skin.
  2. Scented Candles

  3. Scented candles may be made with aromatic compounds containing allergens or chemicals which could cause health problems from prolonged exposure.
  4. Lead

  5. Many paraffin wax candles are made with wicks containing lead. Inhalation of lead can lead to problems with a variety of internal organs including the liver, kidneys and brain.
  6. Petroleum

  7. Paraffin wax is a by-product of petroleum, and burning paraffin releases the same carcinogens released when petroleum products such as gasoline are burned. These carcinogens could lead to asthma, respiratory infections, or in a worst-case scenario, lung cancer.
  8. Particulate Matter

  9. Burning paraffin wax releases fine particulate matter into the air. These microscopic particles can get into the lungs, causing or exacerbating asthma or other respiratory health problems.
Subscribe

Post a Comment

Post a Comment Post this comment to my Facebook Profile

eHow Article: The Effects of Breathing Parrafin Wax

Related Ads

Get Free Health Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

Live Strong Partner
Livestrong_eHow Health