Paraffin Wax
When booking an appointment at a nail salon, you may have other add-on options that are available to do that aren’t necessarily directed towards your nails. One of these options is paraffin wax. Have you heard of it before? If not, here is a breakdown of what paraffin wax is and what it does.
What is paraffin wax?
Paraffin wax is a soft wax, either white or colourless as it is made from saturated hydrocarbons. It’s used in salons as a skin-softener, but it also has uses in pain relief as it relieves sore joints as muscles. As such, it is applied most commonly to the feet and hands during spa services.
Outside of the spa environment, paraffin wax is used to make candles and crayons, and can also be used as a lubricant.
What are the benefits of paraffin wax?
Cosmetic benefits:
As mentioned above, paraffin wax is used as a skin softener because the wax is a natural emollient. After applying the wax, it boosts the skin moisture levels continuously after the treatment. It may also have the effect of removing dead skin cells and helping to open the pores of the feet, letting anything trapped beneath the surface escape.
Therapeutic benefits:
Paraffin wax is heated and therefore can be used as a form of heat therapy to increase blood flow in the hands and feet and reduce the amount of stiffness in the joints. Paraffin wax treatments are also beneficial to those who have sustained a sports injury such as a sprained ankle or wrist.
Is Paraffin Wax Safe?
Yes. Absolutely. Paraffin wax is completely natural and although it is heated, it has a low melting point, meaning that it will not cause burns or blisters on the person it is being applied to, provided that the technician has heated it to a safe temperature.
However, those who have sensitive skin may want to steer clear of paraffin wax as it may result in a heat rash.
Others who should avoid paraffin wax include those who suffer from:
- Numb hands and feet
- Diabetes
- Poor blood circulation
- Rashes and open wounds
- Chemical sensitivities
Paraffin wax is usually an add-on option that you can pay extra for with your manicure or pedicure, but some spas may also have it as a separate service. Call your local spa in advance and see what options they have for paraffin wax and try it out today!
