Wax therapy also called warm wax therapy, is a type of physical therapy. It involves the use of heat to relieve pain and relax muscles. Wax therapists use different types of waxes, including paraffin, beeswax, and soy wax. The therapist may also use essential oils or other ingredients to add to the therapeutic effects of the treatment.
Warm Wax benefits
There are many benefits to warm wax therapy, including increased blood flow, pain tolerance, and muscle relaxation. Additionally, paraffin wax can soften hardened skin and improve elasticity, leading to improved mobility.
Warm wax therapy not only moisturizes feet but also provides a therapeutic effect on sore and aching joints. This makes it particularly beneficial to individuals suffering from the following:
- Arthritis – Arthritis is a type of pain that is caused by inflammation in the joints. This can make it difficult to move the affected area and can cause a lot of discomfort.
- Bursitis – Bursitis is a condition that affects the bursa, which are fluid-filled sacs that cushion your joints. When these become inflamed, it can cause pain and stiffness in the affected area.
- Chilblains – Chilblains are small, itchy, red patches that can appear after spending several hours in the cold. These can be painful and uncomfortable, and can often lead to other skin conditions.
- Eczema and psoriasis – Eczema and psoriasis are both skin conditions that cause red, flaky, crusty patches of skin. These can be very irritating and can often lead to infections.
- Scleroderma – Scleroderma is a more uncommon condition, but it can result in hard, thickened areas of skin and sometimes issues with internal organs and blood vessels. This can be a very serious condition if not treated properly.
- Bad circulation – Bad circulation is simply when blood flow is restricted to a particular part of your body. This can cause pain, numbness, and other problems in the affected area.
Some other more common conditions warm wax therapy assists with are; inflammation, tendonitis, stiff joints, sport-related injuries, and muscle spasms.
Different types of waxes
There are numerous benefits to wax therapy, including the fact that it can help improve circulation, soothe muscle pain, and even help with arthritis. Different types of waxes can be used in wax therapy, each with its own unique benefits. Paraffin wax is often used because it is especially effective at helping to improve circulation. Beeswax has anti-inflammatory properties which make it great for soothing muscle pain. Soy wax is a good choice for those who are looking for an all-natural option as it contains no artificial ingredients or chemicals.
Essential Oils
This therapy uses a special wax that contains essential oils. These oils help to moisturise the skin and also have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects. This therapy can help to heal the skin and prevent infection. The oils contained are as follows:
- Lavender
- Frankincense
- Myrrh
- Sunflower
- Orange
- Bay Leaf
The above combination also leaves your skin looking, feeling, and smelling beautiful!
During your appointment
After your feet have been exfoliated and soaked in a warm foot spa containing Epsom salts, you will feel the benefits of reduced stress, pain, and swelling. These soaking salts promote relaxation and help to reduce any discomfort you may be feeling.
Your podiatrist will then massage warm oil onto your feet.
After your skin has been cleansed, a thin layer of warm paraffin wax is brushed on. This luxurious and relaxing experience uses wax pods and a sterilised soft brush to apply the therapeutic wax.
After your feet are exfoliated and scrubbed, they are then wrapped in warm towels. The wax is left to set for around 10 minutes. It’s then gently peeled off. After your appointment, you will be left with soft, tranquil feet. A luxury balm is massaged into your feet, leaving them feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.