Will Using a Body Wrap Help Me Lose Weight?

When it comes to shedding pounds, there’s no shortage of approaches out there. From fad diets to the newest workout trends, many Americans are eager to slim down. So it’s unsurprising that new products appear constantly.

Body wraps are among the popular options that claim to trim inches, reduce weight, and firm sagging skin.

But how could a simple wrap deliver those results? Here’s what you should know.

How do body wraps claim to help you lose weight?

Like many weight-loss products, body wraps are marketed as “the solution” to your weight concerns. Depending on the wrap, the promises vary from losing a few pounds and inches in 30–90 minutes to dropping several dress sizes over time.

While they can leave your skin feeling soft and smooth, the notion that a wrap can melt away inches from your waist or thighs is questionable.

Most of the success stories are anecdotal, coming from individuals who tried body wraps. These accounts are hard to verify because you don’t know what other methods those people used simultaneously to lose weight.

Some people opt for neoprene wraps, which are similar to wrapping plastic film around the midsection. Manufacturers claim these work by raising your core temperature — causing heavy sweating, particularly if worn during exercise.

This can lead to temporary water-weight loss, so stepping on the scale right after a session may show a lower number than the previous day.

But is this method safe? Not always.

Here’s why: sweating causes fluid loss. If you don’t replace those fluids, dehydration can occur. Additionally, elevating your core temperature may result in overheating, which can be hazardous.

Other types of body wraps

Another option is spa treatments that use wraps. The person applying the wrap might be a massage therapist or esthetician, or simply a staff member trained in the procedure. Spas offer various kinds of wraps, such as:

• heat wraps where you spread a warming cream on the skin and then cover the area with plastic film
• slimming wraps that incorporate lotions or topical herbal formulations
• infrared body wraps
• “detox” wraps containing substances claimed to draw toxins out of the skin

Often strips of material infused with herbal compounds are tightly wrapped around the body to supposedly detoxify the system. These topical herbal mixtures are touted to reduce inches and eliminate cellulite.

After removal, your skin might look firmer. That visible tightening is one reason people believe wraps aid weight loss. Unfortunately, that effect is commonly temporary.

Is there any science to back it up?

Most of the supporting evidence comes from companies selling the wraps. There’s very little — if any — impartial research confirming body wraps are effective for weight loss.

How do you use a body wrap?

You can buy DIY wraps from retailers or receive a wrap treatment at a spa. If using a wrap at home, stay well-hydrated, especially if you intend to wear it during exercise. Follow the instructions carefully and avoid using the wrap longer than recommended.

Many high-end spa and DIY wraps are herbal and can be applied to targeted areas such as the abdomen or used as full-body treatments. The wraps are applied and left on for a set period. Neoprene wraps are sometimes worn for extended durations.

Wraps that require exfoliation beforehand are usually left on for a shorter span (30–90 minutes). These types often contain ingredients like mud, clay, herbs, and creams or lotions.

When the allotted time is up, the wrap is removed, you rinse your skin, and apply a moisturizer.

What should you know before you try a body wrap?

If you’re thinking about trying a body wrap, consider the following points before you wrap up.

• If the wrap contains herbal ingredients, exfoliants, or moisturizers, find out exactly what they are and whether they’re safe for you.
• Many wraps require tight wrapping by you or a spa employee, which can lead to uncomfortable side effects from compression.
• There’s a real risk of dehydration since wraps tend to increase core body temperature. Drink ample fluids.
• There’s no proof that a body wrap will produce lasting weight loss. Any short-term drop in pounds is primarily water loss. Once you rehydrate and eat, the scale will likely return to its previous number.
• The only proven route to sustained weight loss is a suitable diet combined with regular exercise.

The bottom line: while your skin may feel smoother and softer after a body wrap treatment, long-term weight loss after a few sessions is unlikely.