Burns from Microwave Hair Removal Wax
Author Information
Author(s): Angela C Chang, Katherine M Watson, Tara L Aston, Marcus JD Wagstaff, John E Greenwood
Primary Institution: University of Adelaide Medical School
Hypothesis
Can microwave-heated hair removal wax reach unsafe temperatures and cause burn injuries?
Conclusion
Microwave-heated hair removal wax can reach unsafe temperatures and cause burns, even when following the manufacturer's instructions.
Supporting Evidence
- The maximum wax temperature recorded was 108.5°C.
- Ninety-three percent of stirred wax temperatures increased with microwave power output.
- The majority of burns were superficial or partial thickness.
Takeaway
Heating wax in the microwave can make it too hot and cause burns, so it's important to be careful and follow safety instructions.
Methodology
Data was collected from the RAH burns database for patients with wax-induced burns and wax temperatures were tested in a pilot and definitive study.
Limitations
The study may not represent all burn injuries as many patients may not seek hospital treatment for minor burns.
Participant Demographics
All 21 patients were female, with a mean age of 26.5 years.
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