Retro Beauty: The Paraffin Dip
Back in the early 90’s I used to accompany my Mom to the spa where the chicest of the chic would steam and depilate in all their headband wearing glory. One treatment that was oh so cutting edge was the Paraffin Dip- a heated pot of wax that you would plunge your hands and feet into and within seconds the dried wax would harden. After “infusing” the hydrating ingredients into your skin by covering said extremities in a plastic bag, the technician would peel the wax off which was both mesmerizing and totally gratifying as it would oftentimes roll off in one motion. The end result was baby soft hands and/or feet that had its moment for a good long while.
The ingenuity of American capitalism didn’t take long to see the potential of an at home version and the late 90’s/early 2000’s saw a mass flood of DIY Paraffin Dip machines bringing this coveted spa indulgence right in the comfort of your home. The idea was brilliant, the execution less so as the messy process and lengthy cleanup was just the start of its cons when constant re-purchasing of the Paraffin beads (the real money maker) relegated this novelty item into the obscurities of garage sales and attics.
Fast forward to today and you can imagine my surprise (and bemusement) when my trendy, state-of-the-art med spa included a Paraffin Dip as part of my facial treatment. Having years since I tried one I jumped at the opportunity and was practically giddy when the process was as fun as I remember. The warmer was simple and more streamlined and the Paraffin infused with the scent of Lavender but otherwise it was exactly the way I remember. Had I known about it before I stepped in I would have made a snarky comment in my head along the lines of “really, are we still doing this?” However, once I tried it I realized that this simple spa service does in fact have a way of enhancing my spa experience. It brought back good memories and reminded me of my childhood…no Vampire facial can do that.
