Body Wraps

- A body wrap is an all-natural alternative to plastic surgery. It slenderizes and contours your body shape in only an hour. The body wrap produces therapeutic and cosmetic benefits by cleansing the body of toxins and reducing inches. Yes, the body wrap is very popular with massage therapists and salon technicians for that very reason. You can use the body wrap to relieve yourself from pain due to injury and illness.

- Body wrapping is a therapeutic treatment that is applied to detoxify the body using simple all natural ingredients, these easy readily available ingredients applied over the years traditionally to tighten and tone the skin and help stimulate the body to rid itself of trapped toxins, excess fat and excessive trapped lymph fluids. This detoxification reduces the appearance of cellulite, creates inch loss, and helps tighten and tone the skin.

- Were originally treatments where Ace Bandages or plastic wrap was tightly wrapped around the body to cause quick weight loss through vasodilation.

- An advanced development that works on shrinking the adipose tissue of the fat called Cellulite, which is found directly below the surface of the skin. ( Sample Images )

- You can find these types of “Slimming” Body Wraps, which result in the temporary loss of weight and inches, at some spas.

- Vasodilation – widening of the blood vessels, especially the arteries, leading to increased blood flow or reduced blood pressure.

- Ace Bandages, Plastic wraps ( Sample Images)

Natural ingredients sourced from nature used in spa

- Pesticide-free grown Herbs

- Muds sourced from spring-fed lakes

- Clays scoured from the desert or volcanic soils

- Essential oils

*Can produce healing, uplifting, beautifying effects

*Natural, nontoxic, therapeutic and sustainable for the environment

History of Body Wraps

Body wraps are used to pull pollutants and toxins from the body using herbs and mosses. The theory goes back centuries, and it has been proven that Cleopatra used clay poultices as skin treatments. Before the conception of the body wraps we used today, many in medieval times relied on mustard as a way to rid the body of these harmful free radicals. The Ancient Egyptians used them to beautify the skin, heal the body and soothe the spirit. The wrapping process has been studied by scientist and archaeologist to try to copy their process of mummification for years. In Greece, Rome, India, China and Japan used a wrapping for healing and there have been various wraps that have been used for a variety of ailments. In western society, we use gauze and bandages for a sprang of cuts, bruises, etc. Today, body wraps are performed in many salons and spas all over the world.

Introduction in Salons

Body wraps began to be performed in salons in the United States in the 1961. They showed great progress in reducing an inch or two from the body after 1 to 2 hours.

1970s

On "The Phil Donahue Show," a television broadcast showed a body wrap being performed and document a 1-inch loss over the course of the episode.

1981

Herbal body wraps were introduced to health care professionals and received their seal of approval.

Global Recognition

Body wraps steadily became popular all over the world in the first 10 years. Still performed mostly in salons, they were very expensive and mostly used by celebrities and wealthy individuals.

1990s

The salon industry changed its marketing strategy and made the body wraps affordable to the general public. Men and women started participating in getting body wraps as a quick way to lose inches and remove toxins from the body.

How does the Body Wrap Work?

It improves those areas of your body that you want to work on the most. Wherever your tissue is the softest and flabbiest, the “wrap” will firm, tone, and reduce more than the averages. Many people are wrapped for detoxification benefits, as well as inch loss and reshaping. Impurities are flushed from the body through the body’s natural waste system by drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water per day.

How many wraps will you need?

Those unwanted inches and cellulite did not happen overnight and will not go away overnight. It requires a series of wraps, sessions to see long-lasting results. You can be wrapped twice a week or three times a week as long as there is a day in between. It really depends upon the amount of Cellulite that has formed your percentage body fat, etc.

Dry Skin Brushing before Wrap Treatment

This treatment prior to the body wrap will remove all the dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, stimulate the sweat glands, and help to open up the pores. This enables the Body Wrap formula together with the spa in-house formula to penetrate more thoroughly and effectively. The brushing will stimulate your blood circulation, which is the indirect cause of Cellulite.

Types of Body Wraps

Herbal Body Wraps (Images)

Your body is cocooned with hot towels steamed in pure chamomile, rose petals and lavender. This treatment promotes muscle relaxation and the release of toxins through perspiration – excellent for stress reduction.Not recommended for anyone with hypertension, claustrophobia, or weakened health. (25 mins.) 85-700 USD (Depending on the series of wraps advised by the technician during the consultation)

Aromatherapy Wraps

a.) Home Wraps ( Images )

- Easy to use, availability-wise for a very affordable price.- Wraps on a specific area of the body such as neck, back, shoulders, hands or feet. - Heated up right in your microwave for 30 sec. and your all set- Built-in pockets, you put fragrance pouches into the pockets before you put the wrap into

the microwave; the result when you heat the wrap is that you feel a warm and moist massage as you wrap your neck, shoulders, hands or feet.

- Scent pouches are designed to give off a calming and relaxing fragrance – nothing overbearing, designed to be healing and rejuvenating

b.) Spa Aroma Body Wrap ( Images )

- Aren’t cheap, but they are invigorating & incredibly luxurious- You will be wrapped from head to toe with warm, moist towels that are infused with

aromatic essential oils, such as chamomile, lavender and eucalyptus. You will be wrapped tightly so that you are snug in a virtual cocoon of comfort (Ideal when you vacation, the pampering is worth every penny)

- Some spas even sell fragrance pouches that you can bring home- For some approach, a dry exfoliation is followed by a full body application of a warmed,

customized botanical blend. Then while you are cocooned in heated linens, the therapist or spa technician will perform a stress-relieving Scalp Treatment. Resulting to a soft, hydrated skin and a purified sense of well-being. (1 hr. 15 mins.) / 140 USD

Other Benefits...

- They can really lift your spirit at the end of a long work day- After an intense workout, you can dramatically soothe your muscle pains by using a

warmed aromatherapy wrap.- Some scent combinations have actually been shown to increase the body’s metabolism and

immune system- Chronic illness such as arthritis and asthma can also be aided and the common cold.

Cellulite Wraps (Images)

- It’s either made of rubber or plastic, worn around the hips, thighs or waist and others can be worn throughout the entire body.

- Can be worn during daily activities, while sleeping or exercising. Some are inflated with air by a vacuum cleaner, while others use hair dryers to blow warm air into the wrap.

- Combined using creams, lotions or gels after the wraps are soaked into a solution.- Manufacturers of these types of wraps claim that their products can reduce one’s body

dimensions by removing unnecessary fluids.- This method does achieve losing inches to the desired areas; the weight loss reduction is

temporary and can easily be replaced by food or drinks.- Be aware of the hasty and excessive loss of fluid could be dangerous because it could

cause imbalances of electrolytes to the body or worse case, extreme dehydration.- It is recommended that you search for a reputable health spa to guarantee they can assist

you when potential hazards arise. (1 hr. 30 mins.) / 70 USD

Mud Wraps (Images)

- Are spa treatments designed to slim and tone the body, hydrate or firm the skin, or relax and soothe the muscles, some are also thought to relieve tired aching joints, ease inflammation and help to flush out toxins through sweating.

- How is it done? – A layer of soothing mud is applied to the skin to detoxify, cleanse and firm. Mud is thought to ease water retention and cleanse the pores by drawing impurities. Treatments come in a variety of packages, with one common factor: Mummification, or being wrapped in bandages over the mud that has been applied.

Seaweed Wraps (Images)

- This therapy begins with an application of a pre-warmed liquid seaweed cell fluid gel, rich in sea minerals and bio-trace elements. Loosely wrapped sheets and heat lamps create comfortable warmth, ending with an application of the spa’s signature seaweed body cream. (25 min.)

- Promotes skin toning and detoxification- Many spas offer a seaweed detox body wrap as a stress-reducer and detoxifier- May also improve skin’s texture and elasticity- Doable at home treatment for less money and get the same results.

Cold Wraps (Images)

- Re-usable, affordable effective proven treatment- MD recommended to immediately stop soft tissue pain and swelling from sprains, strains,

or muscle surgery- Provides guaranteed relief when used 2 to 3 times a day for 15-30 minutes- Compression drives the cold deep into affected areas to rapidly reduce inflammation and

pain- Comfortable, ergonomically designed and fit for specific torn muscle and tendon groups- Used by doctors, orthopaedic surgical hospitals, chiropractors, physical therapists, major

university athletic teams and trainers

*Cold Compression Therapy Ice Wraps for Shoulder, Knee, Ankle/Foot or Plantar Fasciitis cold therapy ice wrap, Hand-Wrist, Elbow, Back, Universal Wrap for Hamstring, Calf, Shin, Bicep etc. and also Cervical Neck Wrap.

Slimming Wraps (Images)

- Invented by Victoria Morton nearly 30 years ago, it is used by Hollywood celebrities who contact her when they need to slim down quickly for movie and television appearances.

- Aging is accelerated by the accumulation of metabolic wastes and environmental poisons, which cause lack of energy, wrinkles, cellulite and crepe skin.

- Looking younger is possible by simply freeing the body of this lifelong build-up- While removing inches from your body, loosing double chin and tightening your skin with

the body wrap, you are also cleansing these unwanted materials and removing years from your apparent age

- First you are measured prior to being wrapped. Then a trained Wrap Technician will wrap you from head to toe with bandages that are specially soaked in the exclusive mineral wrap solution. After an hour, you are unwrapped and then measured. Don’t forget to ask about the spa’s inch loss guarantee.

How to prepare for a Body Wrap?

Plan on 2 hours for your first visit... 3 hours for 2 people.

Do not eat heavily prior to the wrap, a light snack is fine. Make sure not to drink a lot before your wrap, so that you can stay in it for the full hour.

Do drink water so you aren’t dehydrated. Just remember you won’t be able to use the restroom for 1 ½ hours.

Do not wear lotion the day of the wrap

Do plan to wear underwear and bra during the wrap, cotton is preferred. (wear whatever type of bra in which you’re most comfortable)

And for the Men, please plan to wear colored cycling shorts or boxer briefs.

Bring dry undergarments to wear afterwards

For your comfort and sanitary reasons, please do not schedule a wrap appointment during menstrual cycle.

Common Characteristics of Body Wrap

Comfort and Security – People generally experience a sense of safety and of being protected when they are wrapped up. It is a comforting sensation of being “tucked in” that is not generally available to adults except in the Spa environment.

Warmth – Whether applied externally or created as a process of body heat, warmth is an integral part of all body wraps, offering a sense of nurturing and engendering deep relaxation.

Enclosed Environment – the enclosed and warmth environment of body wraps offers ideal conditions for spa products of all types to act upon the body in an effective manner, absorbing through the pores rather than dissipating into the air.

General Protocols regardless of the wrap being performed

Communicate – communicate verbally with the client about the nature of the wrap. Clients sometimes complain that they are unsure of what to do while the wrap is being performed or while they are lying in the room, alone, wrapped up. Always let the client know that you are available, even while out of the room. Inform the client how long the wrap will last and what he/she might expect to experience during the wrap. Offer water, a cold compress for heat wraps, and anything else that can make the client more comfortable.

Use a Bolster – Due to the extra weight load on the legs created by most wraps, it is important to always place a bolster under the knees so that the client’s lower back does not become hyperextended.

Exercise Caution – All wraps, especially heat wraps, can cause certain clients to feel claustrophobic. With heat wraps, it is important not to apply sheets or products that are overly hot in order to avoid burning sensitive skin. The mouth and nose must remain unwrapped at all times. Always check for allergies or sensitivities to products before applying a wrap.

Here is a summary of what you can expect from a body wrap:

Body scrubs may use salts and other natural ingredients to exfoliate and detoxify the skin. Body wraps use detoxifying organic materials such as mud or aloe vera to draw toxins from

the body and soften skin. Most body scrubs use a blend of oils with fine and coarse grains, and are followed with the

application of emollient lotions to further soften skin. Skin will feel soft and fine lines will lessen after just one treatment. Such deeply relaxing treatments are shown to decrease stress, thereby lowering blood

pressure. Since the skin is our largest organ, detoxification can have profound effects on our health

and sense of well-being.

Benefits & Contraindications

There are several conditions that can benefit from Body Wrap treatment, some contraindications and few precautions to be aware of.

Acne: the toxin cleanses and hydration properties of the body wrap will have a significant benefit to these clients.

Allergies: Clients with allergies should always read the list of herbs used in the solution before doing the treatment. A pre-test of smelling the warm solution should be done for nasal allergies.

Asthma: Clients should have the appropriate medications on hand in case of an asthma attack

Bruises: Aloe Vera can help to restore the cellular wall surrounding the blood vessels that have been damaged by a trauma. Fast removal of toxins or dead blood cells. The heat will spread healing to the area and stimulate circulation to disperse the damaged blood vessels. Do not massage directly over a bruise.

Burns: Aloe Vera is one of the most helpful healers for all burns. Never apply heat or oil /lotion to a burn.

Cancer: Contraindicated to avoid the spread of the disease.

Chronic Fatigue: Relaxation and warm moist heat of the body wrap can be incredibly helpful in the treatment of this disorder. If Client has fever at the time of the appointment, please reschedule.

Dermatitis/Eczema/Psoriasis: Hydration of the body wraps will be very soothing to these clients.

Diabetes: Relaxation associated with this treatment will benefit the client while reduction of fatty areas of the body. There is no fluctuation in body fluids and no compression restricting the blood flow so this treatment will be completely safe for clients. Diabetic clients are prone to open sores that should be unwrapped; they will feel numbness in the extremities.

Edema: Always obtain a medical release from the attending physician. Should be combined with circulatory or lymphatic drainage massage to increase release of lymph from affected areas.

Emphysema: Client can have body wraps but may be uncomfortable lying flat so have a way to prep him/her up or lounge in a Lazy Boy recliner.

Fibromyalgia: Warm moist heat of the body wrap will relax muscle tensions associated with this autoimmune disease, toxin cleansing will remove substances that contribute to muscle pain. Best results will be noted to have treatments done every three days, a minimum of three treatments.

Gastric Bypass: Clients who have gone through this or planning to have surgery will benefit from the toning and tightening of the body wrap. The incision site should be completely healed before treatments begin or resume.

Heart Disease: The relaxation associated with this treatment will benefit the client while reducing fatty areas of the body. No fluctuations in body fluids / no compression restricting the blood flow. A doctor release is advised. Let the client take the “Body Wrap Facts” brochure to client’s doctor.

Hepatitis: This infectious condition is contraindicated for body wraps as the client’s body is unable to process the toxins being removed from the body.

Herpes: An infectious condition that should not be wrapped during an outbreak.

HIV/AIDS: Contraindicated due to the immune/lymphatic system is not capable of processing the toxins to remove them.

Inflammation: This is a protective response to injury or infection. Please know the cause before you work on your client.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Not affected by Body Wraps

Kidney Failure: Contraindicated unless a medical release from the attending physician

Lactating Women: Always obtain a medical release. Wraps are not contraindicated. Heat may be uncomfortable on engorged breast.

Liver Problems: Doctor’s release should be obtained before treatment

Lupus: Contraindicated to avoid overtaxing the immune system

Multiple Sclerosis: The warm moist heat of the body wrap will relax muscle tension associated with this disorder.

Muscle/Joint Dysfunction: The warm moist heat of the body wrap will relax muscle tension associated with these problems.

Numbness: Client should benefit from the hydration and skin toning of the body wrap. They can choose a Solution Gel body wrap to eliminate the presence of heat. If the client cannot feel how much heat is being used, it is far too easy to burn that area.

Post-Operative: Always obtain a medical release from the attending physician. As long as the incision site is healed wraps should not be contraindicated.

Pregnancy: Always obtain a medical release from the attending physician for your protection; however, wraps are not contraindicated. This is an excellent way for an expecting mother to care for her skin and body.

Seizure Disorders: Clients will benefit from the relaxation but should make sure that they have their medication with them art each appointment and should provide the technician with name and phone number of doctor in case of emergency.

Sinusitis: The warm aromatherapy of the body wrap should be comforting to the client. If the condition is contagious all therapy is contraindicated.

Skin Cancer: Because this type of cancer is not spread to other organs through the lymph system, as long as the client is not undergoing chemotherapy, treatment should be okay. The Aloe Vera will help hydrate the skin and restore skin tone.

Skin Rashes/Abrasions: If you don’t know what it is? Don’t touch, don’t wrap it!

Tuberculosis: A highly contagious airborne disease. Contraindicated without medical clearance from the attending physician.

Urinary Tract Infection: Contraindicated during acute infection

Varicose Veins: No reason this client cannot be wrapped; but be aware of where the veins affected are so you do not tuck a wrap cloth end in over the top of one of them. If client has many affected veins in a concentrated area, like the legs, choose a solution gel treatment or cocoon style wrap to eliminate any chance of compressing.

Warts: No effect on this condition; refer to masking recipe for warts

Open Wounds: Do not wrap affected area for sanitary reasons.

Rules To Keep Inches Off!

1. Do not shower before the wrap or for 6 to 8 hours after the wrap. Soaps, lotions and creams clog the pores and will hinder the effectiveness of the “wrap”

2. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day to flush the impurities and toxins from the body3. Do not eat after 6:30 pm

4. Avoid carbonated beverages (Carbonation holds toxins in), do not drink alcoholic beverages and limit your salt, sugar and caffeine intake

5. Cut down on animal fats (red meats & dairy products). Food rich in Fiber and complex carbohydrates are good substitutes.

Presented by:

Rely Emmanuel FloresFCCT – Massage Therapy Student

Hydrotherapy