The Evolution of Paraffin Treatments

From stove top to tank-heating, paraffin, as it is known today, has evolved from origins of being brushed on wounds by the French for its therapeutic benefits. Moving into the beauty industry, it has been used for its esthetic value of moist heat tissue regeneration, becoming identified as thermotherapy. Paraffin treatment also is known to be successful in reducing pain and stiffness around joints by removing excess fluid from the surrounding tissue while also providing lubrication and reducing the signs of aging.
Yet knowing the therapeutic benefits of paraffin doesn’t make the delivery process of the liquid any easier

for treatment therapists. Many in the professional industry have long been waiting for the next generation system that will deliver paraffin to the treatment site quickly, simply and more hygienically than traditional methods. With a reinvigorated interest and new ideas on the subject, paraffin treatments are back and here to stay.
Paraffin primer
Paraffin is a clear, white liquid matter that is tasteless, odorless and can be obtained from hydrocarbons through dry distillation of petroleum. Paraffin has many uses and can be found in various items in the cosmetic industry, including creams, lipsticks and hair products, as well as being used to waterproof material or as an ingredient in candle-making. Identified in the 1830s by German scientist Karl Ludwig von Reichenbach, paraffin wax has earned quite a name for itself in the beauty industry, especially in regard to its ability to help revitalize lifeless, aging or undernourished skin.
When in liquid form, paraffin has the ability to expand and mold itself in and around the peaks and valleys of the skin. On cooling, it quickly begins to contract, compacting its molecules closely together and solidifying itself around the contours of the area being treated. This creates an encapsulated envelope, eliminating the loss of heat.
When applied as heated flowing fluid, paraffin has the ability to transfer heat to the skin’s tissue, creating natural thermal energy and enabling the active product applied under the paraffin to possess energy that can transfer active ingredients into the skin. Through this method, skin is transformed with the use of infusion.

Menu infusions

As paraffin can create a thermal energy environment, therapists have the ability to step up service menu offerings by providing customized paraffin treatments. Paraffin treatments can assist in carrying product into the skin tissue, infusing active ingredients to the treatment site. It can also enhance results as a pre-treatment to glycolic peels, microdermabrasion, LED treatments or even surgical procedures. Used as a post-treatment, paraffin has the ability to advance the recovery and regeneration time of the skin.
The temperature of paraffin is key to the success of the product’s liquidation, solidification and treatment results. The traditional method of paraffin application is via a paraffin spa tank system where the paraffin is kept at a liquid temperature of 127–131°F. While this may be the optimal melt point and a successful temperature to apply paraffin to the body via a brush method, submerging a hand or a foot directly into the spa tank at these temperatures can be uncomfortable and unsanitary. To properly offer this method of paraffin treatment, be sure that your spa tank is cleaned and sanitized for each client, and always be sure the client is comfortable, checking in throughout the procedure’s progress.
New developments
New to the market are self-contained paraffin treatments that are boosting the popularity of this spa standby. These sanitary, single-use disposable packs help to eliminate the risk and liability of bacterial and fungal cross contamination, which aids in ensuring your clients feel safe and well-treated.
Creating a simple option, the disposable chamber heats up the paraffin using either a chemical reaction or a heating element. The heating system melts the paraffin directly into the sealed gloves or slippers, which can be great for client comfort. Aromatherapy can also be provided during the heating process with a choice of essential oils.
Paraffin perfection
Take a close look at your paraffin and the way you are offering this service. Make it your goal to move toward the paraffin system that works best for you, whether it is one that offers single-use packs or the traditional tank-and-brush method. Utilize a system that can deliver a premium, luxurious, sanitary treatment that also ensures your clients’ satisfaction and safety. Customize your treatments and evolve into the next generation of paraffin therapy.

This article was originally published in the June 2008 issue of Skin Inc. magazine and is being reprinted with permission. All rights reserved.