Paraffin Wax: On Feet, Hands, and Other Uses (2024)

Paraffin wax is a soft wax with a low melting point. It is versatile, with uses spanning from cosmetic to industrial to therapeutic. One of the most common ways of using paraffin wax is as a treatment to relieve stiffness or soreness in hands and feet.

Paraffin wax is made from petroleum and is generally considered safe.

This article will discuss the different paraffin wax uses and safety. It will also cover how to use paraffin wax for dipping.

Different Paraffin Wax Uses

Paraffin wax is a soft wax popular for its many applications. It can be used at home or as a treatment in a salon to ease stiffness and moisturize the skin. It also is an ingredient in candles, waxed paper, and much more.

On Hands and Feet

One of the most commonly known uses of paraffin is as a dip for the hands and feet. The warmth from the wax can help relieve soreness, stiffness, and improve circulation. A 2020 study found that paraffin wax therapy significantly decreased muscle and tendon stiffness.

The warmth from paraffin wax may temporarily help relieve joint pain, stiffness, and other symptoms of arthritis.

Research has revealed several benefits of paraffin wax. In studies, it improved hand contractures (a thickening and tightening of the skin that prevents movement) in people with serious burns, improved joint mobilization in people who had stiff ankles, and reduced passive stiffness in the calf muscle and Achilles tendon.

Moisturizer

When paraffin wax is melted, it can be used as a bath in which to dip hands or feet to add moisture and softness to the skin.

Paraffin wax is a type of occlusive moisturizer. This means it forms a barrier to prevent water loss from the skin. The barrier allows water content to be restored deep within the skin.

Industrial

The industrial uses for paraffin wax are numerous. It is used in cosmetics, to preserve food, as a main ingredient in candles, to make waxed paper, for electrical insulators, and in polishes.

Paraffin wax also can extract perfume from flowers, be a base for ointments, and act as a waterproof coating for various materials.

Paraffin Wax Safety: What’s Good or Bad?

Paraffin wax is generally considered a safe substance to use. However, there are circumstances in which it should not be used or it can cause injury.

Paraffin wax baths are made by melting the wax and dipping hands and feet into it or smoothing the warm wax over the hands and feet.

Always test the temperature before submerging the skin to ensure it does not cause a burn. The temperature should be around 125 degrees F. Avoid using a paraffin wax bath if you have open skin sores or numbness.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), paraffin wax fumes, which are odorless, are highly flammable. Inhaling the fumes can cause respiratory irritation, nausea, and discomfort.

At-Home Paraffin Wax Treatment

Paraffin wax treatments can be done in a salon or at home. It's important to ensure the wax isn't too hot and that you follow the instructions on the kit.

Once the paraffin wax bath is prepared by melting the wax, follow these general steps for use on the hands:

1. Wash and completely dry your hands.
2. Apply a small amount of lotion to your hands.
3. Dip one hand into the liquid wax keeping your fingers separated.
4. Remove your hand.
5. After a few seconds redip that hand. Repeat six to eight times.
6. Cover your hand with a plastic bag and wrap it with a towel. Keep it covered for 10 to 15 minutes.
7. Remove the towel and bag, and peel away the dried wax.

Where Paraffin Wax Comes From

Paraffin wax is made from petroleum. It was first produced commercially in 1867 and has since been modified to allow for additional steps in purifying the wax.

Paraffin wax can be purchased in stores and online. Some products contain additives, so look at all the ingredients when buying.

Summary

Paraffin wax is a popular product used for dipping hands and feet to relieve pain, stiffness, and soreness. People with arthritis or other conditions may find relief from paraffin wax treatments. These treatments can be done in a salon or in the comfort of your own home. Paraffin wax is generally considered a safe treatment as long as it is done properly.