Body wraps have been around for thousands of years, dating all the way back to the ancient Egyptians. Body wraps at that time were utilized in body sculpting practices and primarily worked to stimulate circulation. Over the past 3 decades, with the increase in science in the cosmetic industry, many people are curious if body wraps can really be used to rid the body of fat. Body wraps have become one of the hottest cosmetic tools in the world and are becoming increasingly popular in the salon and spa industries.

There are essentially two different types of body wraps on the market today. Both types employing a large emphasis on moisturizing and conditioning the skin. However, the primary function of the two types is widely different. The first type of body wrap, creates inch loss primarily through water elimination. These water elimination wraps are very useful for a big event, where a person would like to look their best for a short period of time, but the inch loss is strictly temporary. This technique is similar to that which could be obtained through excessive sweating during exercise or time spent in a sauna. The second type of body wrap creates inch loss by helping the lymphatic system to rid the body of stored toxins which were introduced to the body through poor dieting, the environment, and pollutants. 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 during this type of body wrap is common to help facilitate the detoxification and fat loss. Although the results of this type of wrap may not be immediately as drastic, the inch loss obtained from this type is often permanent.

The shape, size, and ingredients used in the body wraps can vary tremendously. Some helpful things to consider when shopping for a body wrap are:

List of Ingredients -- all natural is always best for skin sensitivity

Topical Inclusion -- always easier if the ointment comes pre-applied and not separate from the wrap

Application Technique -- convenient if you can apply within privacy of your own home

The basic understanding by many industry experts, is that fat loss can be facilitated through a body wrap regiment, however, the majority of wraps available today are simply diuretics that remove excess water weight. Many industry experts also agree that body wraps should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise program to achieve true results. Simply using a body wrap will not keep the inches off, if diet and/or exercise regiments do not change.