By Knude Society Team

5 tips for newbies exploring wax play with Melt

Wax play and wax massage candles are part of a sensual form of BDSM (bondage, dominance, submission, and masochism) that involves dripping hot wax onto the skin to create pleasurable sensations. It’s become more and more popular over the last few years, with many of us looking to expand our horizons. Which is why we’ve put together these 5 tips to help you get going on your wax play adventure (especially helpful if you have Melt, our massage candle!).

Why you should try wax play

Wax and massage play has several benefits for you and your partner exploring different ways to strengthen your intimate connection. Firstly (and probably our most favourite reason), it promotes trust and communication as partners engage in open discussions about boundaries, desires, and consent. Doing this helps deepen your understanding of each other’s needs and limits.

Secondly, it can be a very powerful form of sensory exploration. The heat and tempurature can increase your sensitivity to touch and heighten your arousal. A win win, no?

And thirdly, if you use Melt, our massage candle, you’ll smell amazing whilst doing it.

But let’s get into the tips so you can stop reading and start playing.

1. Choose the right wax

If you haven’t bought our candle, Melt, it’s essential to select right type of wax is crucial for pleasurable and safe wax play. Please, DO NOT use household candles — they burn at a higher temperature and can cause damage to your skin. Instead opt for specialised BDSM candles or low-temperature candles specifically designed for wax play. With the lower burning temperature it makes them ideal for beginners.

2. Test the wax temperature

Always, always, always test the wax temperature on yourself or your partner's inner forearm or a less sensitive area first. Remember, sensations can differ from person to person, so it is essential to start with a lower temperature and gradually increase if you’re both happy.

3. Communication is key

Open and honest communication is paramount in wax play. Talk about your desires and boundaries with your partner beforehand to establish a safe and consensual experience. Talk about any allergies, sensitivities, or specific areas to avoid. Establishing a safe word or gesture to communicate discomfort or the need to stop is also crucial. And regularly check in with each other throughout the session to ensure you’re both enjoying it.

4. Prepare the space

Let’s face it, once you’re in the zone you don’t want to be faffing around trying to make sure wax doesn’t drip in places you don’t want it to. Lay down a towel or cloth to help protect materials and make clean up easy. Plus keep on hand a bottle of water and damp cloth in case of any unexpected discomfort or need to cool now the wax.

5. Take your time exploring

Wax play doesn’t have to be about immediate intense heat. It can be a whole range of tempuratures and sensations. Start slowly and gradually explore the different intensities and techniques. Begin by dripping wax from a height of a few inches onto larger areas of the body, such as the back or bum — as they can handle more heat. From there as you gain confidence and understanding, you can experiment with closer proximity and smaller, more sensitive areas, such as the chest, nipples, or inner thighs. Keep checking in with your partner throughout.