Listen to Story Even if you know nothing about skincare, a quick scroll through social media will expose you to countless skin issues and their trendy solutions. Every day, a new beauty product seems to go viral. From chemical peels to homemade sunscreen , beauty enthusiasts love experimenting with all things skincare.
The latest trend captivating everyone is the viral candle moisturiser. Contrary to what you might think, you don't apply molten wax to your body. Instead, this product is a moisturiser packaged as a candle.
When you light it, the candle melts into a liquid body moisturiser that you can pour on your skin. A post shared by Ayesha Sanghi (@globalbeautyfinds) But can a heated, liquid moisturiser work effectively? And the bigger question here is, is it even safe to use? Let's find out from the experts. "A hot, liquid moisturiser like a body candle moisturiser can be effectively used since it would spread more smoothly and evenly," Sherin Bhan, dermatologist, cosmetologist, and co-founder of Studio 1915 Luxury Aesthetic Clinic, Faridabad, tells India Today .
The expert adds that the melting effect of such a product ensures that the lotion spreads easily and sinks deeper into the skin. This leads to better hydration and a more luxurious feel. Moreover, the warming effect relaxes and provides comfort, making application fun.
Meanwhile, Lalita Arya, dermatologist and vice-president of DermaPuritys Aesthetic Clinic, Delhi, states that a debate on the efficacy of this type of moisturising therapy compared to conventional creams or gels could arise. "The heating process may affect some ingredients' stability and effectiveness, so they become less efficient. Also, not all can employ this method, especially individuals with delicate skin or those who prefer applying less warm products," she adds.
On the other hand, Dr Sri Sahithi Konidena, dermatologist and founder of Prime Derm Skin and Hair Clinic, Hyderabad, says that she doesn't think people would practise this on a daily basis, and according to her, it's a passing fad. "One of the contents of the product is an essential oil. This is a body application of melted essential oil.
Though it's intriguing to watch the process and applying it warm from a melting candle, in the end, it's simply an oil. It's an age-old practice to apply warm oil, but it may not be a daily practice. This can give temporary dryness relief and a soothing effect, but is not advised as long-term daily application," she mentions.
Experts are divided on the effectiveness of this viral product (Representative image: Pexels/Vlada Karpovich) There are several benefits that come with using a body moisturiser candle, such as combining skincare with relaxation through sensory experience. Sherin Bhan mentions that the warmth of the melted moisturiser softens and soothes the skin, while lighting a candle creates an atmosphere similar to that found in spas, which is relaxing. This sensory ritual reduces stress and fosters well-being, which are both advantageous for mental health.
However, candle moisturisers also have some disadvantages. The biggest one is that the heated moisturiser can cause burns if not handled carefully. In addition, it might contain ingredients to which some people are allergic or sensitive, leading to skin irritation.
Also, the artificial fragrances or additives used may react with different skin types. "Being a dermatologist, I admire body moisturiser candles because they present an innovative and enjoyable method for hydrating your skin. A good quality product can become an important element in your skincare regimen, whether you want to add a bit more sensory experience to it or not, especially if it contains high-quality ingredients tested by dermatologists and proper precautions are observed during use," says Bhan.
On the other hand, Lalita Arya says that she would approach body moisturiser candles with caution, as when chemical heating occurs, active ingredients can alter their stability. As for Dr Konidena, this product gets a big no. "I would suggest avoiding it and keeping it as an occasional indulgence for relaxation," she adds.
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