Paraffin - More Than Just Wax
May
28
Written by:
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Mineral wax derived from petroleum. Doesn’t that sound appealing? Of course not. So, let’s just say, “Paraffin”, and maybe you won’t stop reading.
Yes, I know many of you are familiar with a paraffin dip. Dipping your hands or feet into a heated paraffin bath seems to be what most people associate with paraffin. If you have been in a nail salon, the odds are there is a paraffin unit on the premises. In this setting paraffin is used to soften and hydrate the skin.
How many of you have had a back paraffin treatment during a massage?
There is an easy way to get an excellent treatment. First, the therapist massages your back as usual. This can be during a 30 minute back massage or during a full body massage. After the back massage has been completed, more oil or lotion is applied. Heated paraffin is then brushed onto your back in several layers. You will then be covered with plastic wrap, towels, a sheet, and/or an insulating wrap to hold in the heat for approximately 10-15 minutes. The paraffin hardens and then is easily removed.
Basically what happens is that the solid paraffin changes to liquid form as it is heated and transfers heat to the body when applied. The heat opens your pores and penetrates deeply. Your circulation increases while your muscles loosen and relax. This is a perfect treatment with a two-fold benefit: moisturizing hydration for the skin and pain relief.
No back problems? Ask your therapist about other body parts – elbows, knees, etc. – and paraffin and what it may be able to do for you.