Detox body wraps can be a great way to rid the body of toxins, especially when the toxins retain water. Smoking, drinking alcohol and eating a diet full of sugar and salt can lead to an accumulation of toxins. These toxins can cause poor circulation, acne, dry or dull skin and weight gain. The style of wrap and its method determine how long the wrap should be left on to get the best result.

Infrared heat detox body wraps can be more expensive than traditional wraps. These detox body wraps should be done at a professional spa or salon. Many people choose detox body wraps to get rid of toxins and increase circulation in order to reduce the appearance of cellulite. As the body accumulates fat, circulation slows so the body might not metabolize areas of fatty deposits, causing cellulite.

Infrared heat penetrates the layers of fat, breaking them up to increase circulation and reduce joint or muscle pain. This treatment usually lasts for an hour and starts after the person has been wrapped with heating pads and is relaxed in a bed.

It often takes about 20 minutes for the heat to go through the skin and warm the bone. The last 30 minutes are used to break up fat cells and cellulite. The heat also works to break down stored toxins and body fat to be released into the blood and out through sweat. The heat also increases the metabolism, using broken-down fat as energy.

It’s essential to be hydrated for 48 hours before and after the detox body wrap. This will allow toxins to be flushed out of the body easily.

Herbal body wraps can be ideal for those who want to tighten their skin tone, detox their body or lose a few inches from the thighs or midsection. Herbal body wraps can benefit individuals who suffer from joint or muscle pain. A typical herbal wrap contains ingredients such as sea salt, clay and dried herbs or essential oil.

Essential oils that help detoxification include sage, grapefruit, lemongrass, sandlewood and lavender. Each of the essential oils works to clean the body through the bloodstream by entering pores in the skin, cleaning the digestive tract, lymphatic, respiratory and circulatory systems.

To create a wrap, combine 1/4 cup of sea salt, 1 cup of bentonite clay, 2 cups of water and 2 tbsp. of an essential oil. Mix together with the water until a paste forms. Apply it to the body and cover with large towels or sheets. Keep the wrap on for 45 minutes to an hour, and then rinse in a warm shower.

Detox body wraps made of clay and seaweed can be the most effective. Clay is often used in detox spa treatments because it tightens skin and draws out impurities and toxins from the body. Seaweed, or kelp, softens skin and helps to rid the body of toxins through stimulating the metabolism.

Typical mixtures for a clay and seaweed wrap include 2 cups of kaolin clay and 1 cup of powdered kelp. Apply the mixture to the body after a warm shower because pores will be open and toxins easier to remove. After application, cover the body with warm, wet towels. Then cover the body with a plastic sheet to keep in moisture.

Leave the wrap on for one hour and then rinse in the shower. After the wrap, skin will feel softer and more firm. Detox body wraps can be done weekly for best results. Drink plenty of water before and after the wrap to flush toxins from the body.