Indoor Air Pollution from Scented Products Poses Greater Health Risk Than Previously Thought
Groundbreaking Research Uncovers Harmful Nanoparticles in Everyday Fragrances
February 18, 2025 – A new study published today has revealed that indoor air pollution from household fragrances poses a greater health risk than previously understood. Researchers at Purdue University have found that air fresheners, wax melts, and fragranced cleaning products release dangerous nanoparticles capable of penetrating deep into the lungs.
The study sheds light on how volatile chemicals from scented products interact with indoor ozone, forming harmful airborne pollutants that weren’t present in the original products.
“What we’re seeing is concerning,” said Dr. Nusrat Jung, assistant professor at Purdue’s Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering.
“These artificial fragrances react with ozone to create pollutants that can be inhaled deep into the respiratory system.”
The Science Behind Indoor Air Pollution
The research team used cutting-edge monitoring equipment in a specialized “tiny house lab” to track how everyday household products release volatile chemicals and form airborne nanoparticles.
Dr. Brandon Boor, Purdue’s Dr. Margery E. Hoffman Associate Professor in Civil Engineering, explained:
“These particles are just a few nanometers in size. At this scale, they can travel deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.”
Hidden Health Hazards in Everyday Products
The study identified several household products that contribute to indoor air pollution, including:
- Scented wax melts and candles
- Air freshener sprays and plug-ins
- Essential oil diffusers
- Fragranced cleaning products
- Deodorisers and room sprays
According to data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), pollution levels from these products can sometimes exceed outdoor air pollution levels—raising serious concerns about long-term exposure risks.
Health Risks of Indoor Air Pollution
The American Lung Association warns that poor indoor air quality can lead to:
✔️ Respiratory issues (wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath)
✔️ Headaches and dizziness
✔️ Increased risk of lung infections
✔️ Nanoparticles entering the bloodstream and potentially affecting organs
Revolutionizing Air Quality Research
The study was conducted at Purdue’s zEDGE Lab (Zero Energy Design Guidance for Engineers)—a state-of-the-art research facility designed to monitor air quality in real-time under realistic living conditions.
Dr. Jung emphasized the need to rethink indoor air safety, stating:
“The chemical interactions we’re observing are complex and more harmful than we initially believed.”
What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?
Experts recommend the following steps to reduce exposure to harmful indoor air pollutants:
✔️ Increase natural ventilation by opening windows
✔️ Use unscented cleaning and personal care products
✔️ Avoid artificial air fresheners and heavily scented candles
✔️ Maintain proper humidity levels to reduce chemical reactions
✔️ Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters
What’s Next?
The Purdue research team continues to study the long-term effects of exposure to fragranced nanoparticles and hopes their findings will influence future safety regulations and consumer choices.
Dr. Boor concluded:
“We are only beginning to understand the full impact of indoor air pollution on human health. This research is a critical step in identifying hidden risks and protecting people from exposure to harmful chemicals.”
For more updates on indoor air safety, visit the EPA’s website (www.epa.gov) or follow Purdue University’s latest research publications.
