Hot Wax Hand Bath
A hot wax hand bath, also called a paraffin hand bath, is useful as a relaxing and skin-softening treatment in a salon or spa. Melting units made especially for hot wax hand spa treatments at home are also available in cosmetic and department stores, along with 3- or 6-lb. blocks of paraffin wax, which are often scented with aromatherapy oils. Larger units–which may also be used for feet or other body parts–can be found in many physical therapy offices.
Preparation
A special formulation of paraffin wax is heated to a temperature that is quite warm to the touch but still safe for skin. Some home brands of paraffin spas may take as long as 30 to 45 minutes to heat up; larger commercial units may heat up instantly. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before beginning.
Hot Wax Hand Bath Process
Let the wax completely liquefy. Spread your fingers wide and dip your hand into the paraffin up to the wrist bone, then slowly remove it. Allow the wax to dry for a moment, then repeat the dipping motion five to 10 times. After your hand is thoroughly coated with warm wax, wrap it loosely inside the plastic wrap that comes with the unit.
Then place your inside the terrycloth mitt that comes with the unit, or inside a towel, which will help retain the heat of the wax. You can treat one hand at a time, or both hands, although doing both hands at the same time is easier if you have someone to assist you.
Removal
Leave the wax on your hand until it is no longer warm, which takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Carefully peel off the wax. If you are using a home unit, you can put the wax back in the unit for reuse, although in a salon or therapy setting you may be asked to discard it.
Cosmetic Benefits
The heat of the wax during the paraffin treatment is soothing and relaxing. Your hands feel smooth and soft when you remove the wax. According to the Institute, a medical day spa, hot wax hand baths provide stress relief as well as increased circulation and improved skin color. Many enjoy a hot wax treatment as part of their manicure.
Therapeutic Benefits
Hot wax hand bath may also be used as therapy for those who suffer from arthritis, stiff joints, fibromyalgia, inflammation, eczema, psoriasis or scar tissue. The treatment may be followed by exercise, massage or stretching.
In a 2004 study of patients with scleroderma that was conducted at the Department of Rheumatology at Lund University Hospital in Sweden, it was determined that a combination of hand exercise with a paraffin bath improved mobility, perceived stiffness and skin elasticity.
Side Effects of Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is applied to the face, hands, feet and body during spa treatments that are intended to moisturize and soften the skin. Paraffin wax is a soft wax made from petroleum byproducts and has been laboratory tested to be hygienically safe to use. Pure paraffin is colorless, tasteless and odorless, although scented versions are available. If you ingest liquid paraffin or inhale paraffin candle fumes, you may have adverse reactions including nausea, vomiting, headaches or even benzene pollution that can lead to lung cancer. But there are no major side effects to the standard topical application.
Heat Rash
Paraffin melts at a lower than normal temperature, meaning that the skin can be submerged in the wax without causing burning or blistering. However, if you have highly sensitive skin, you may experience heat rash from a paraffin application to the skin. This rash, also called prickly heat, looks like tiny red bumps on the face, neck, and upper torso. It can be itchy and uncomfortable.
Poor Ciculation
Hot wax hand bath is not recommended for those who suffer from varicose veins or who have hypertension or diabetes. This treatment can lead to abnormal sensations, numbness and hinders circulation if you are diabetic.
Irritated Skin
Because paraffin comes from petroleum products, people with chemical sensitivities may develop minor swelling or breakouts from the wax treatment. Avoid paraffin wax treatments if you have any skin rashes or open wounds.
