Wax
The distinction
should be made between natural (from plants, from animals, and
from mineral sources) semi-synthetic (semi refined mineral wax)
and synthetic properly speaking (like paraffin). A wax finish
produces a matt sheen, but softens when heated, and is only to
a limited extent waterproof and resistant to wear and it is easily
damaged by solvents, acids, and bases.
However on hardwood flooring wax has little effect on the color,
doesn't loosen the adhesive and has no offensive odor.