Paraffin Wax Baths

What is it?

Paraffin wax is a widely used substance found in various cosmetics, moisturisers, crayons, and candles – just about everywhere. It has a low melting point, which means it wont burn the skin if held at a temperature just above this. It also retains heat effectively.

How does it work?

When used in a footbath, paraffin wax works by gently warming the skin and muscle and increasing blood flow to the feet.


During a treatment, your foot is dipped into the warm melted wax multiple times to form layers. The wax is then left on for a total of 15-20 minutes before being peeled off.


Paraffin wax treatments work best if repeated weekly or fortnightly.


The amount of treatments needed depends on the reason you require it but the average is around 3-5.

What can it be used for?

  • Reducing pain from arthritis and fibromyalgia

  • Increasing blood flow for people with poor circulation

  • Treating chilblains

  • Moisturising dry cracked skin

  • Softening hard callus

Patients report a lovely warm, tingling feeling in the feet that lasts up to a number of hours following the treatment.

It is difficult to know how well you will respond to a Paraffin Wax treatment. For some people the effects are immediate and long-lasting and for others they require multiple treatments over a shorter time period.

These treatments can be claimed on your private health insurance.

You will need to check with your provider to see whether you are covered. The code for paraffin wax treatments is F121.