a colorless, somewhat translucent, odorless mass; greasy feel. Used as a defoaming component in yeast and beet sugar production. Not digested or absorbed in the intestines. Used to cover food products. Cleared for use as a synthetic masticatory substance in chewing gum. Raises melting point in ointments, used in wax paper and candles, and in many industrial products. Used for wound dressing. When used in cosmetic surgery, paraffin has caused sloughing of the skin.