Seaweed Wrap Treatment

A seaweed body wrap combines the luxury of a spa treatment with the healing properties of thalassotherapy. Thalassotherapy is the use of seawater and sea properties, such as seaweed, to promote health. Seaweed has mineral benefits that include vitamin A, vitamin C and B12, according to Subhuti Dharmananda of the Institute for Traditional Medicine. Seaweed body wraps are available at many salons, or apply your own version at home.

Seaweed

Seaweed is a general term that describes attached algae that live in the sea. You can find seaweed in foods, cosmetics and in industrial processing. Seaweed is a source of B vitamins, pantothenic acid, folic acid and niacin. As a core component for a body wrap, seaweed can help tone and moisturize the skin.

Body Wrapping

Wrapping is usually a two-fold process. The first step is to cover the torso, arms, legs and neck with an elastic cloth or warm towels to absorb fluids and toxins during the treatment. The second stage of a body wrap may include the application of a plastic or thermal sheet over the body to provide warmth, keep the area clean and promote sweating. Not all seaweed body wraps are done the same way. Some techniques will use just one wrap, either cloth or plastic.

Application

To prepare for a seaweed wrap treatment, the skin is cleaned with a salt scrub and hot water to open pores and remove dead skin cells. Consider taking a hot bath with salts or bicarbonate soda for 30 minutes. After mixing a blend of seaweed powder and hot water, the technician covers the skin surface with the warm concoction. The first wrap, generally cloth, covers the paste, and the second wrap goes over the cloth. The treatment times may vary, but average about 30 minutes. Once complete, the wrapping comes off, and the client takes a hot shower to remove the seaweed paste. Post-wrap treatment should include moisturizing the skin with either a massage oil or lotion.

Benefits

The benefits of a wrap may include water weight loss and improved skin quality, according to Dorit Baxter, a spa in New York. The treatment reportedly works by stimulating the sweat glands and drawing toxins out of the body. In addition, the skin may absorb minerals, such as niacin, from the seaweed paste.

Considerations

A seaweed wrap is not for everyone. According to Dorit Baxter Spa, pregnant women and those with health problems should talk to their doctor before considering a seaweed wrap. During the treatment, heat may raise the blood pressure, and the water weight loss can leave some feeling dizzy. Eat a light meal before a seaweed wrap, and drink plenty of water during and after the treatment.