There are essentially two different types of body wraps on the market today. Both types employ a large emphasis on moisturizing, healing, and conditioning the skin. However, the primary function of the two types is drastically different.
Dehydration Wraps: The first type of body wrap, is referred to as a dehydration wrap because it creates a minor amount of weight loss and inch loss primarily through water elimination. These water elimination wraps are very useful for a big event, when a person might like to look their best for a short period of time, but the inch loss and weight loss is only temporary. This technique is similar to that which could be obtained through excessive sweating during exercise or time spent in a sauna. Industry experts will tell you that a large majority of body wraps on the market are the dehydration type wrap, so always ask what type of wrap it is, what are the after-wrap instructions regarding fluid intake, and how long the results are expected to last.
Hydration Wraps: The second type of body wrap creates inch loss in two ways. The first is by aiding the lymphatic system in the removal of stored toxins. These wraps stimulate a process called lymphatic drainage, where toxins and fatty acids from your cells are released into the capillaries and eliminated along with the body’s waste. Drinking large quantities of water after this type of body wrap is common to help facilitate the detoxification and fat loss.
These wraps also help to eliminate the excess fluids and toxins by drawing them out through the pores of the skin. The result is an immediate and noticeable inch loss in the areas of the body where there is a large accumulation of fat; the hips, thighs and stomach.
You will also notice when researching this type of wrap that there are little or no claims of weight loss involved. This is because the product being used is actually absorbed into the body and nourishes the body. Since most of us do not drink enough water and our bodies are dehydrated, this type of wrap helps us to feel rejuvenated and energized.
Although the results of this type of wrap vary depending on how effective the ingredients are and on an individual’s toxin level, the inch loss obtained from this type is often permanent.
Two Stages of a Body Wrap
Body wraps work in two stages: absorption and compaction.
In the absorption stage you apply a substance on your body either directly onto the skin or by wraps soaked in a solution. There are several types of absorbents: sea clay, seaweed, mud, herbal, mineral and aloe vera. The effectiveness of the wrap is determined by the ingredients used.
Compaction or “compression” is simply squeezing the tissues together after the “interstitial fluid” has been extracted. Once the fluids have been extracted, there are empty “pockets” between the fat cells. Without using compression of some sort, after removing the toxins and excess fluids, the fat layer would be very relaxed and limp. Not a pretty picture! In order to prevent this and to compress the fat cells back together again for a firmer appearance, a tight wrap is used.
Most everyone is familiar with the old body wraps that use cellophane or “Saran” wrap to hold the product on the body, induce sweating and apply moderate pressure. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but by using an ace type bandage for the compression and proper wrapping techniques, we have more control and are able to lift and contour the body during the wrap process.
The Use of Body Shapers after a Body Wrap
Girdles are making a huge come-back these days, but we now call them “body shapers.” You can do your part to increase your inch loss results and maintain your new shape even longer by purchasing a body shaper and wearing that each day for about a week after your wrap. As your body continues to eliminate toxins as natural waste material, you will notice additional inch loss and body toning if you wear a firm body shaper (from mid-calf to chest is best).
How Long Will the Body Wrap Results last?
I really hate this question, but it’s the one that everyone asks. To refresh your memory about toxins….remember I said they are chemicals and preservatives that we take in through the air we breathe, the foods and liquids in our diets, and the products we use on our body? Okay, so how many of us are going to stop eating, drinking, breathing and smearing lotions on our bodies? Right! So, common sense tells us that the toxins will be back. It’s up to you to determine how fast they accumulate again. Will you change your eating habits, go organic, drink more bottled water, etc? Even though we know we should, not many of us make these major changes.
A safe rule of thumb on how long the inch loss results last is to say that the average person will not show signs of the inches returning for 2 to 3 months. This is why we recommend regular body wraps to not only keep you healthy, but to maintain your results. You should consider a body wrap to be part of your lifestyle routine just as you do dental check-ups, haircuts, nail appointments, physicals, etc.
What About Cellulite?
The word cellulite is a combination of the French word for “cell” and the suffix “-ite,” meaning disease. The fat cells of our body are surrounded by a liquid (called interstitial fluid) that both nourishes it and provides it with an effective waste system. When that fluid becomes filled with toxins, it thickens and hardens the connective tissue just below the skin and creates a dimpling effect that is seen on the outside of the body as cellulite.
Cellulite affects about 90% of all women and can be a problem regardless of size, weight or age. It normally occurs after age 30, worsens with age because of poor muscle tone and decreased circulation, and is more evident in heavier women. It can even affect those who exercise regularly, including athletes.
Causes of Cellulite:
Toxin buildup
Decreased circulation
Poor diet
Lack of exercise
Insufficient water intake
Genetic predisposition, inevitable hormone changes
High caloric intake/weight gain/bad eating habits
Sedentary lifestyle
Solutions for Cellulite:
Regular body wraps to help eliminate stored toxins and increase circulation
Healthier eating habits
More exercise
Increase water consumption
Any Questions?
I have tried to give you a broad overview of body wraps to answer some of the typical questions that people ask. If I have missed something or you have additional questions, just leave me a comment and I will be happy to answer your questions.