Why am I prettier in candle light?

I understand photographers used to make skin look better using black & white film and a green filter. I's just say "a trick of lighting", and let it go.

The softer light

several reasons

With the dimmer lighting, more of your face is in shadows, either hiding or highlighting certain areas.

The red from the candle flame is more complimenatary. Compare yourself in a room using the red light bulb and a blue one. The blue is harsh. People sometimes use a red lightbulb in a dark room for romance (or so I've heard )

Different ends of the color spectrum.

Nice malapropism. Thanks.

Where there's candlelight, there's often red wine. That may also be helping your appearance.

It may be due to lighter light.