When I found out the terrifying truth about candles, I vowed to never buy another one again. This is so disappointing!

I wasn’t surprised when I found out the candle industry generates more than $2 billion in sales every year.

However, a new study revealed that the cost of using scented candles to keep your house smelling delightful could be much higher than just the price tag on those expensive name brand candles.

Turns out, those beloved scented candles of yours could be releasing cancer-causing agents — and the reason why is dangerously mind-blowing.

A professor at the National Centre for Atmospheric Science partnered with the BBC Two series “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor” to measure levels of “volatile organic chemicals” making their way through six houses for five days.

Researchers asked each resident to write down any scented candles, cleaning products and air fresheners they used and how often, and then tested the air in each home. When they analyzed the results, a disturbing conclusion was made.

The chemical they found the most of was limonene, a substance used to give products that iconic citrus smell. The homes that used the most scented candles and cleaning products also had the highest levels of the potentially dangerous chemical.

Although limonene itself isn’t particularly dangerous, it becomes life-threatening when it’s released into the air and creates formaldehyde when it reacts with the ozone. Yes, the same formaldehyde used in embalming.

This is especially concerning due to the National Cancer Institute’s claim that formaldehyde is associated with several types of cancers.

Thankfully, researchers say you can control the amount of limonene in the air by using less scented products and choosing fragrance-free cleaning agents instead.

For those of you interested in creating your own scented candles that are SAFE, watch this genius DIY video:

You can also go to 7 Candles That Won’t Give You Cancer or Make Your Kids Sick.

Although I’m disappointed to learn the dangerous truth about candles, I’m so relieved to know there’s safe alternatives!

Share this article to show your friends how scented candles may release cancer-causing agents!