Paraffin wax, a by-product of petroleum, is a staple of beauty and wellness treatments that comes with countless benefits for the body. From improving circulation to locking moisture into cracked, stiff skin, this colorless wax can quickly and effectively relieve the symptoms of and treat a variety of ailments.Treatments with paraffin wax are a spa staple, but, given the low heating point of the wax, it can also be safely used at home. So, you can bring the spa to you and enjoy all the health benefits that paraffin wax has to offer from the comfort of your home.

Improved Circulation

A hand or foot bath in paraffin wax is a brilliant way to relieve the pain and stiffness related to arthritis. The heat from the melted wax encourages the blood vessels in either the hands or the feet to dilate. This, in turn, brings more blood to the affected area which is accompanied by oxygen and the nutrients found in the blood supply. The pain in the arthritic joints is subsequently eased, offering the individual relief from the persistent, discomforting ache associated with osteoarthritis. While there is, unfortunately, no cure for arthritis, regular wax baths can soothe its most common symptoms and allow the individual some temporary relief.

Moisturize

Paraffin wax is an incredibly effective moisturizer because it is what's known as an occlusive moisturizer. This means that the wax creates a physical barrier between the skin and outside elements, prolonging the moisturizing period and temporarily protecting the skin from further damage. As such, a bath in melted paraffin wax is often part of professional manicures and pedicures because it leaves the skin feeling smooth and hydrated for days.However, to prevent the pores from becoming clogged or the skin growing excessively greasy, it is important to properly cleanse the skin prior to treatment and to avoid leaving excess wax on particularly sensitive areas, such as the face.

Cracked Lips

Unlike your hands and feet, which can be easily protected during the colder months of the year, your lips are permanently exposed to the elements and, as such, are incredibly vulnerable to dehydration and cracking. Split, peeling lips can be exceptionally uncomfortable, especially while talking or eating. Once again, paraffin wax presents a solution.Much like with the hands and feet, using paraffin wax on your lips creates a protective barrier between the dry skin and the elements, allowing the lips to absorb the moisture whilst preventing further damage. Also, as an added bonus, paraffin wax creates a smooth, glossy finish, so your lips will look amazing whilst being fully protected.

Unclog Pores

Paraffin wax does more than just moisturize the skin. In addition to promoting circulation, the heat of the melted wax also causes the skin to sweat, widening the pores and allowing any trapped oil or dirt to be removed. This leaves the skin feeling smooth and revitalized.After the skin has been submerged in a bath of melted wax, the subsequent removal of the paraffin acts as an exfoliating treatment. As the wax is peeled off, it takes any dead skin cells and dirt with it, revealing a clean and supple layer of skin underneath.

Skin Elasticity

As people age, their skin loses the elasticity it once had. As a result, the skin is no longer as firm and deep wrinkles form around sites of regular movements, such as the lips and eyes. This is primarily due to declining collagen and elastin levels as well as excessive sun exposure. While paraffin wax cannot provide either collagen or elastin, skin elasticity is also affected by moisture levels. As such, applying paraffin wax can increase the moisture of the skin, refreshing it and providing it with everything it needs to heal and maintain itself effectively. Regular paraffin treatments, therefore, promote skin elasticity and can reduce the signs of aging.

Revive Hair

The scalp and hair often fall victim to excessive dryness and irritation due to their constant exposure to the elements and abrasive materials. However, a hair mask comprised of paraffin wax can lock in that much-needed moisture and repair the hair cuticles. With a paraffin hair mask, all you need to do is apply it ten minutes before using shampoo and conditioner and you'll have healthy, moisturized hair with a beautiful natural shine.

Final Thoughts

It's hard to believe that something as simple as paraffin wax can provide so many health benefits, from alleviating the symptoms of arthritis to providing an excellent natural exfoliant. Book yourself a spa treatment or purchase some paraffin wax of your own to start enjoying all the health benefits of this incredible wax.