Paraffin wax is a mineral wax derived from petroleum. It is soft and has a low boiling point, so it is safe to immerse body parts in it. The FDA has approved paraffin wax as a treatment for making skin smoother and softer. Since the days of the Roman Empire, it has also been used in massage therapies. Paraffin wax treatments are a great treatment on their own, or as a complement to another spa treatment.
What is a Paraffin Wax Treatment?
A paraffin wax treatment or paraffin bath is a treatment in which the patient immerses their hands or feet in liquid paraffin that has been heated to a high temperature. The patient removes their hand or foot from the bowl of liquid wax and lets the wax start to harden. They may dip their hand or foot into the wax additional times to build up thick layers of wax. The esthetician will cover the hardening wax in plastic and then let the body part soak in it. The trapped heat opens the pores of the skin. After the wax has cooled, the esthetician will pull it off.
How Does a Paraffin Wax Treatment Help?
Paraffin wax treatments provide cosmetic and therapeutic benefits. The paraffin can keep skin healthy by opening pores and removing dead skin cells. It is also an emollient and thus adds moisture to the skin. That moisturizing effect lasts for a while after the treatment. Paraffin also helps the skin retain its oils. Paraffin wax can be used to treat calluses and cracked, dry skin, and it can be used to treat chronic skin problems, like scleroderma or psoriasis.
Paraffin wax treatments can also be used to treat conditions like fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It acts as a type of heat therapy. The liquefied wax absorbs and holds heat very effectively. As the wax cools and solidifies, the heat is transferred from the wax to the treatment area. That heat relieves stiffness and pain and also increases circulation.
Can Paraffin Wax Treatments Benefit You?
Paraffin wax treatments are safe for most people and they require no downtime. If you are looking for a simple way to moisturize and soften your skin, a paraffin wax treatment might be right for you. To learn more about this luxurious spa treatment, visit Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at our office in Jacksonville Beach.
