Different kinds of wax are available, one type being therapeutic wax or paraffin wax. It is soft, white wax made of saturated hydrocarbons.
Paraffin wax treatment has therapeutic as well as cosmetic benefits. It is frequently used in spas or salons as this petroleum-based product hydrates and softens skin while coating the skin’s surface. Otherwise it is also used to encase the treated area, trapping heat and relaxing the surrounding tissues. This makes it helpful for treating stiff joints and alleviating pain associated with arthritis, fibromyalgia, bursitis, tendonitis and sore muscles.
Ingredients Required
- 1 block paraffin wax (about 4 ounces)
- 1-ounce oil (coconut, almond, olive, or jojoba)
- 20 drops essential oil, such as lavender
- 2-3 drops olive oil or coconut oil (to coat your hands)
- Casserole dish, greased with oil
- Plastic sandwich bags (to fit your hands and feet)
30-Minute At-Home Wax Treatment
The following directions are for a hand treatment, though it also works on the feet.
- Melt the paraffin, the ounce of oil, and the essential oil in a double boiler.
- Carefully pour the wax into the greased dish and wait until a skin has formed on the top of the wax. Make sure the temperature is just about right to submerge your hands. You can double check it with your kitchen thermometer. It should be not be more than 125 F (51.7°C), or it will burn your skin.
- Test the wax on your wrist to ensure the temperature is not too hot.
- Before starting wash and dry your hands thoroughly. Smooth a few drops of olive oil or coconut oil (coconut oil smells better) on your hands.
- Dip each hand into the wax repeatedly until you have several layers of wax built up. Aim for between five and 10 layers of wax.
- Have someone help you put on the sandwich bags onto each hand, then sit back and relax for about 30 minutes. You can also wrap your hands in plastic wrap.
- For added benefit, place a bath towel over your hands as you wait to keep the warmth inside.
- To remove the wax, simply peel it off by starting at the wrist and working your way to the fingertips. The wax should come off in large sections. Be sure to seal it up in plastic and save it for next time.
- Give yourself a little hand massage and you are done.
Safety Tips
Follow these safety tips to prevent burns or accidents.
- Always test the wax before sinking your hands or feet into it. It can easily burn your skin. Don’t dip as deep as you did on the first layer. The hot wax in the new layer can seep underneath the previous layers and may cause burns.
- Never heat the wax in the microwave and don’t leave your double boiler unattended. It can also be flammable if it gets too hot.
- Do not do this treatment if you have open sores or a rash on your skin. Make sure that everything is cleared up and your skin is blemish-free before trying it.
- If you have any skin conditions or medical issues such as poor blood circulation, ask your doctor if it’s okay for you to use a paraffin wax treatment.
For first timers do it in presence of a qualified personal.