Greetings, Beautiful Friends!
Winter can be tough on your skin, but don't worry – I'm here to show you how to level up your skincare game and take the dip into the wonderful world of Paraffin Wax Baths.
I'm excited to share a DIY home spa treatment to soothe your dry, itchy hands and feet. Paraffin wax baths are a heat therapy that helps soothe dehydrated skin; it also helps improve circulation while giving your skin a healthy, glowing look.
….And lucky for you, I'm here to show you how to do paraffin wax treatments at home!
What Is Paraffin Wax?
Paraffin wax is a soft, white, or colorless solid wax derived from petroleum. It is widely used in cosmetics and beauty products, such as lip balms, moisturizers, and ointments, as well as in candles, wax paper, and other applications. Paraffin wax is a by-product of petroleum refining and is produced by heating petroleum to very high temperatures and then cooling it. It has a low melting point and is often used to create a protective barrier on the skin to help lock in moisture.
Paraffin wax is commonly used to soothe dry, itchy skin by dipping your hands or feet into a bath of melted paraffin and then letting it cool. The warmth of the wax helps relax your muscles and relieve any aches or soreness in your joints. The essential oils in the paraffin apply hydration to the skin so that once it cools, the wax can be peeled away, leaving your skin feeling rejuvenated and soft.
Benefits of Paraffin Wax Bath
- This hydrating and moisturizing wax is known to help reduce wrinkles and improve the skin's overall texture.
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It can also help to reduce the appearance of scars and dark spots.
Additionally, it helps to lock in moisture and provide a protective layer to the skin. -
This can be especially helpful for those with dry, sensitive skin.
Paraffin wax can also help to improve circulation in the skin. The heat created when the wax is applied can help increase circulation and improve the skin's overall health. -
This can be beneficial for those suffering from circulation-related skin issues.
Paraffin wax is also known to be beneficial for the nails. - It can help to strengthen the nails and make them less brittle. Additionally, it can help to protect the nails from chipping or breaking.
…but those aren't the only benefits of doing Paraffin wax dipping!
Therapeutic Benefits of Paraffin Wax Bath
Paraffin wax baths are also recommended for the therapeutic treatment of hand problems. Due to its warmth, Paraffin baths relieve arthritic pain, sore joints, and sore muscles. Other advantages of paraffin wax baths include increased blood circulation, relaxed muscles, reduced joint stiffness, soothe muscle spasms, reduce inflammation and the treatment of sprains.
How to Use Paraffin Wax At Home - DIY
Shopping list
- Paraffin Bath Wax Refills
- Paraffin Bath (A specialty machine that heats and holds paraffin wax for dipping.)
- Loose Plastic Gloves
- Towels
- Wooden Spatula
- Moisturizing Cream
*If you want to add something special and luxurious, essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, sandalwood, peppermint, and tea tree are particularly popular in paraffin wax.
The Prep
- Remove all jewelry.
- Start by washing your hands and the area of skin you will be treating with warm water and mild soap.
- Gently exfoliate the area you're treating using a loofah or exfoliating scrub. This will increase circulation and remove dead skin cells to help the wax adhere better.
- Dry the area with a soft, clean towel.
- Apply a light oil or moisturizer.
Step By Step Process To Use Paraffin Wax Bath
- Make sure the paraffin bath is on a level, flat, heat-resistant surface.
- Empty Carmel's Paraffin Bath Wax Refill bag into the bath (Refills come in 1 lb and 5 lbs bags.)
- Turn ON paraffin bath. The temperature should be 125-135°F (51-57°C).
- Once the paraffin bath wax is melted, stir it with a wooden spoon. This will help to evenly distribute the heat and prevent hot spots.
- If you are using an essential oil, add it to the wax and stir until it is evenly distributed.
- Test the temperature of the wax on the inside of your wrist.
- Open your hand by spreading your fingers apart and slowly immerse your hand into the paraffin wax. Then gently remove your hand from the heat and wait for the paraffin to set on your hand.
- Re-dip your hand into the wax using the same technique three or four times. The more layers of wax you create help to insulate the heat therapy.
- Place your hand into a loose plastic glove and then cover it with a hand towel for 10-15 minutes. Let your hands enjoy some warm, comforting deep heat!
- Once the wax is cool and hard, you can remove it by peeling it off from the wrist to the fingers.
- Massage oil or lotion of your choice into your hands; this will help lock in moisture.
*This step-by-step guide can be followed for other body parts such as elbows, feet, and knees.
Potential Risks Of Paraffin Wax Bath
Paraffin wax baths should not be used if you have open wounds/cuts, problems with sensation, or if you only want to warm your hands. If used incorrectly, paraffin wax baths can cause severe burns if the wax is too hot. The wax should be heated only to the manufacturer's recommended temperature and should be tested on the inside of the wrist before use. Skin can be further protected by using a barrier cream or lotion and stirring the wax often to avoid hot spots. Additionally, paraffin wax can be flammable, so it should never be used near an open flame. Always keep a fire extinguisher close by in case of an emergency.
‘Til Next Time!
Paraffin wax DIY treatments are a great way to give yourself a luxurious spa experience without breaking the bank. The fun part is you can personalize each time you do it by customizing your wax with your favorite scents and oils! So, if you're looking for relaxation and self-care, go ahead and treat yourself to a nice paraffin wax bath and share with us how it went by email or on Instagram- we'd love to hear from you!
Get those hands dipping Beauty Babes!
