- A block of paraffin wax is heated in a bath, which is a small electrical appliance that regulates the heat at which the wax is melted. Once the wax is in liquid form, the part of the body, usually hand, foot, wrist or ankle is dipped into the molten wax, and quickly removed. The exposure of the melted wax to the air causes the wax to harden. The recipient rests in the wax for an average 20-minute time frame, then the wax is removed.
- Paraffin wax baths are recommended for a variety of ailments such as arthritis, bursitis, eczema, fribromialgia, tendonitis, fibrosistis, inflammation, muscle spasms, fatigued or sore muscles, psoriasis, scar tissue, stiff joints and tennis elbow.
- Paraffin treatments are generally not recommended for people with hypertension, diabetes, or varicose veins. People with these conditions should consult with a physician before receiving a paraffin wax treatment.
- When the body part is extracted from the liquid wax, the wax hardens. The hardened wax works as an insulator, sealing in the heat from the wax, as well as the heat generated from the body. The heat encapsulated by the wax, can relax sore muscles, and tendons, reduce inflamation, and promote circulation in achy joints and connective tissues.
- In addition to its pain releving qualities, paraffin treatments have beauty benefits. Paraffin wax baths sooth and moisturize the skin, making the treatments beneficial for overworked hands and feet. The bath opens up pores allowing the wax to coat the skin in a way that a cream is unable to, resulting in the immediate benefit of softer, smoother hands and feet; and unlike creams that wash away, the wax bath allows moisture to penetrate the skin, and seals it in, so the moisturizing benefits last.
- Paraffin bath treatments are available at most salons that provide manicure, pedicure and/or skin treatments services. An alternative to the salon is to purchase a personal paraffin bath which may be found in beauty supply stores.
