Paraffin is used by therapists to treat a wide array of illnesses and injuries and is effective for pain management for certain diagnoses. Over-the-counter paraffin baths are available at drugstores and many big box stores for less than $50. Many people may benefit from the use of paraffin daily, both as a medical intervention and a beauty treatment.
Diagnoses Responsive to Paraffin
The predominant disease that paraffin is used to treat is arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. After a paraffin treatment, you should have increased range of motion and decreased pain and inflammation. However, paraffin is effective in reducing the pain and swelling associated with an acute episode of gout. Paraffin treatments can also ease your symptoms if you suffer from fibromyalgia, tendinitis or muscle spasm. It can be used alone as a holistic treatment, or it can be combined with traditional pharmaceutical interventions.
Set-Up and Preparation
Paraffin must be heated to approximately 120 degrees F prior to treatment, so that the paraffin is melted. The paraffin used in the bath is often a pre-mixed combination of wax and oil in a specific ratio that is therapeutic. However, the wax can be purchased alone and mixed with scented oils to provide aromatherapeutic benefits. Begin paraffin treatment setup by placing one large sheet of clear plastic wrap on the table near the paraffin bath, along with one bath towel for each arm or foot being treated.
Method
Dip you hand up to your wrist, or your foot up to your ankle, into the paraffin until it is completely submersed. Remove it immediately, allowing excess wax to drip back into the paraffin bath. Repeat this process seven times, making sure not to dip further than the first dip because the paraffin could burn your skin. Cover your body part completely with the clear plastic wrap. Surround it with the towel to insulate the heat. Keep this in place for 15 minutes, and then remove the towel and plastic wrap. Peel off the paraffin and discard it.
Beauty Benefits
Paraffin is used as a beauty treatment as well. The wax and moisturizing oil of the treatment can soften and smooth your skin. It is best used after an exfoliating treatment. Because the paraffin opens your pores, it can also aid in preparing the skin for other beauty treatments. Also, the paraffin increases circulation in the hands or feet and can even out skin tone to reduce the effects of aging.
Contraindications
When using paraffin, it is important to follow all directions, because there is a risk of a skin burn if the paraffin is not used properly. Additionally, it is important to take the temperature of the paraffin before each use to ensure it is in the therapeutic range and to reduce the risk of burn. If the paraffin is too hot, add additional solid wax. If the temperature is too low, add more oil. Take caution using paraffin, if you have poor circulation, because you will have an increased risk of burn. Make sure you only use paraffin on skin without any open areas to decrease the risk of infection and burn.
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