Our hands are in constant motion every single day. No matter if you are a carpenter or an accountant, stiff joints, achy hand muscles and dryness from hard work can really slow you down. The use of paraffin wax has always been associated with spa treatments, and for good reason, as the benefits for those treatments go far beyond the cosmetic.
If you have dry hands, arthritis pain or have been wanting to treat yourself to a relaxing paraffin dip, read on and discover the many benefits of using paraffin wax on your hands.
What is paraffin wax?
Paraffin wax is a white or colorless soft wax that is made from saturated hydrocarbons. Paraffin is a commonly used ingredient in cosmetics and can be found in salons for skin-softening spa treatments on the hands, feet, and cuticles.
Since it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, it is also great for those with skin issues who can’t use perfumed products and treatments. The benefits from its usage for those with arthritis and chronic joint pain cannot be overlooked as they have provided relief to those who live with these conditions for decades.
How Does Paraffin Wax Work?
Paraffin treatments for hands and feet are typically performed at spas and nail salons. Your hands or feet will be dipped several times quickly into a small tub of heated paraffin wax. After several layers of the wax are added, your hands are put into a plastic bag, then wrapped in hot towels.
The wax will trap the heat against your skin as it hardens, opening the pores. Once the wax is completely cooled it will be pulled off your hands and a hot towel will be used to clear off any remaining wax. The benefits you feel during and after are what have kept this a popular spa treatment for decades.
Benefits of Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax’s benefits range from cosmetic to therapeutic.
Cosmetic
Moisturizing
Paraffin is an emollient, which helps make skin soft. The heated wax opens pores by trapping in moisture, leaving hands feeling softer and smoother. This can be used on feet to help soothe dry patches and create soft skin and smooth out calluses as well.
Increased Elasticity
A paraffin treatment can help restore softness and elasticity to the skin. During cold weather often our hands (and feet) can become quite dry and chapped. These treatments can help moisturize our hands and feet and allow for increased mobility and use.
Removes Dead Skin Cells
Paraffin wax is very effective in removing dead skin cells, while soothing and softening calluses on the hands and feet along with healing the dry cracked skin on the heels of the feet.
Therapeutic
Paraffin wax has been shown to help relieve symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and other joint issues. The benefits can be seen below.
Reduce Stiffness
Paraffin can help to reduce stiffness in the joints. The heat can help improve blood flow making joints and hands feel more relaxed. It can improve use in joints for a while after treatment.
Help with Arthritis Pain
Arthritis Health Professions Association has done studies showing that individuals who soaked their hands in paraffin wax experienced immediate arthritis pain relief following the treatment. For those who suffer with chronic arthritis, this kind of relief can do wonders for physical and mental health.
Reduce Swelling
Paraffin wax treatments have been shown to help reduce swelling due to overuse and arthritis.
Relax Muscles
The heat and soft pressure of the wax can increase circulation and help relax your muscles.
Is Paraffin Wax Safe?
Paraffin wax is completely safe to use on your skin. It does not need to get to a very high temperature to melt, so it will be comfortable and soothing, never too hot. If you have sensitive skin due to heat or fragrance, you should have no issue, but make sure to try a small portion of your skin first before you use it on your hands or feet. You can always ask for untreated wax in case you have a sensitivity to the perfumes or oils that may be added to the treatment.
Treat Yourself to a Soothing Paraffin Dip
The self-care experts at Salt Salon & Spa are ready to help you relax and feel your very best. With services that range from paraffin dips, facials, massages, bridal packages, salt treatments and waxing, we strive to make our clients feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and confident. Our self-care experts take the time to listen to your concerns and provide expert knowledge for all your hair, skin, makeup, and massage needs.
Book an appointment today and let us help you look and feel your best.