A homemade body wrap gel is a simple and effective way to detox and slim the body, as well as deliver a dose of minerals and moisture. Wrapping your body in a mixture of clay, salt, aloe and oil helps to remove unwanted toxins and excess fluid. Skip the high-priced body wrap from the salon and make your own in the comfort of your own home.
Combine 1/2 cup of clay with 2 tablespoons of sea salt in a wooden or glass bowl. Do not use metal, as it can deactivate the clay. The clay works to draw toxins from the body, while your skin absorbs natural minerals from the sea salt. Epsom salt is another option, as it is a natural source of magnesium.
Add 1/4 cup of castor oil, a widely used oil for beating bloat and slimming the body. You can heat the oil slightly to increase its effectiveness as it detoxes the liver and helps smooth the skin when applied to stretch mark-prone areas like the thighs and abdomen. If you don't have castor oil, you can substitute any hydrating oil you have on hand (such as coconut, almond or olive oil).
Warning
Do not use castor oil if you're pregnant or menstruating.
Add 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel. A powerful skin healer, aloe vera reduces inflammation and swelling, not to mention helps keep skin clear and healthy.
Combine the ingredients with a wooden spoon. If the mixture is too thick, add water until the body wrap gel is smooth and easily spreadable.
With clean hands, apply a thin layer of body wrap gel to the skin. Standing on a sheet or in the tub, start with the feet and legs and work your way up the body, ending with the arms and hands.
After the body wrap gel has been applied, wrap up in a towel or sheet to keep warm and relax for 60 minutes. Then rinse off the mixture with warm water and follow up with moisturizer.
Writer Bio
Stephanie Gerber is the founder of HelloGlow.co where she blogs about DIY beauty ideas, healthy recipes, green-cleaning tips and wellness.