Pharmacie Kennedy Mulhouse

Candles and incense: what does burning them add to indoor air?

Burning these products releases pollutants. Reduce the sources rather than relying on fragrance to improve air quality.

Editorial illustration of a health discussion; it does not depict the pharmacy’s actual premises.
Editorial illustration — Kennedy Pharmacy Mulhouse

General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.

Burning a scented candle or incense does not purify air. Combustion releases irritant compounds and particles.

Anses advises avoiding candles and incense to reduce indoor emissions. A pleasant smell does not measure air quality.

The emissions are more than a smell: Anses describes particles and volatile organic compounds released by these products.

Anses advises airing the home by opening windows for at least ten to fifteen minutes each day.

Also air a room before spending a long time in it, for example the bedroom before night, and check that ventilation is working properly.

To improve indoor air, reduce pollution sources and preserve ventilation. Do not block air inlets or outlets.

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