Paraffin Wax Treatment for the Skin

Linda Stamberger
Paraffin hand baths are done at a spa, nail salon, or at home. Paraffin wax has been considered therapeutic in the treatment of arthritis since 1962, and has recently been used as a beauty regimen to restore suppleness and moisture to the hands. Paraffin wax is melted, and hands are submerged into the intensely warm wax. Paraffin treatments also remove dead skin cells, revealing fresh skin underneath. Paraffin wax can be used on any area of the body where the wax can be applied, not just the hands. Rough elbows can benefit from paraffin wax treatment, and feet as well.

Non-scented Paraffin Wax

The non-scented types of paraffin wax are excellent for sensitive individuals; those who may be allergic to perfumes added to the scented types of paraffin wax. Non-scented paraffin wax is also an excellent alternative to scented paraffin with essential oils, for those who strictly want to soften the skin on their hands, without the medicinal factors.

Lavender Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax can be bought in chunks, or one big block to be melted in a paraffin appliance. The wax comes plain, or with essential oils. Lavender paraffin wax is used as part of a relaxing spa treatment for the hands, and has real lavender extracts and a slight scent. Lavender is said to be soothing, and a relaxing type of extract. People like to use lavender paraffin wax at home, because lavender has a calming affect, and is also added to baths, as a soothing soaking agent.

Eucalyptus Paraffin Wax

Many paraffin waxes have essential oils. One such soothing essential oil added to paraffin wax is eucalyptus, which acts as a disinfectant and healing agent, as the wax softens the skin. Tea tree oil is another type of essential oil that acts as a powerful disinfectant. It has been known to have medicinal qualities, such as fungus fighting powers, which might be beneficial to those who have fingernail or toe infections, involving fungus. Hot wax treatments should not be used by people who have open wounds, especially deep open wounds. When in doubt, check with a licensed cosmetologist, or check with your doctor.

Where to Purchase

People can also blend a variety of their own essential oils into the wax. Paraffin wax and oils can be purchased at beauty supply stores, or on-line at beauty supply store websites. Paraffin wax can keep hands looking good for weeks, and is often a choice treatment at spas before big events; such as weddings, honeymoons, or before a luxury trip.

Published by Linda Stamberger

Florida expert, author of Antiquing in Florida, and the Florida thriller JAGGED PARADISE. I am also a professional artist, freelance writer, and published poet. Check out my blog for links to my books and sh...  View profile

2 Comments

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  • Lin10/29/2010

    I love them! I have one too, haven't used it in a while.

  • Candice L. Collins10/28/2010

    my aunt has one of those parrafin bath warmers...its almost like a short oval crockpot, melting the wax very low temp...its awesome for dry hands and elbows for sure! I like to add a little sandalwood essential oil to it for the extra benefits for dry skin ;)

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