MUD WRAPS & SALT SCRUBS - ES 172 Basic Body Treatments
Body Scrubs
Spa treatments using a granular exfoliant (e.g., sugar, salt, coffee, oatmeal) with a carrier/base oil (e.g., sunflower, jojoba, grapeseed, almond, olive) for binding and moisturizing.
Process: the body is manually scrubbed, rinsed, and moisturized.
Purposes of friction:
Exfoliate, hydrate, nourish the skin
Increase circulation (blood and lymph)
Also referred to as: salt scrubs, sugar scrubs, polishes, glows
Typical Granules Used in Body Scrub Products
Sea Salt
Epsom Salt
Sugar
Coffee Grounds
Oatmeal
Sea Salts and Minerals
Sea salts act as natural exfoliants and help remove dead skin cells; they absorb dirt, have antibacterial properties, and support hydration by maintaining the skin’s natural barrier.
Common types:
Dead Sea Salts (Israel)
Himalayan Sea Salts (pink, from ancient ocean deposits in Pakistan)
Celtic Sea Salts (unrefined, moist texture, light grey from clay)
Major Minerals Found in Sea Salt
Calcium: needed for building/repairing tissues, especially bone
Chlorine: controls body fluids, electrolyte balance, aids digestion as hydrochloric acid
Magnesium: carbohydrate assimilation, metabolism of vitamin C and calcium, prevents calcium deposits and kidney stones
Phosphorus: biochemical synthesis, nerve cell function, bone remineralization
Potassium: maintains nervous system and heart rhythm, aids muscle contraction, works with sodium for water balance, maintains blood pressure
Sodium: essential to digestion/metabolism, regulates body fluids, nerve/muscular function
Trace Minerals in Sea Salts
Bromine, Chromium, Cobalt, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Selenium, Silicon, Sulfur, Zinc (each with roles in nervous system, metabolism, antioxidant protection, enzyme function, skin health, etc.)
Body Scrub Products – Epsom Salts
Epsom salt = magnesium sulfate; origin: waters of Epsom, England
Uses for skin:
Hydration for eczema/psoriasis
Remove scales (psoriasis)
Soothe itch from poison ivy, mosquito bites
Softens psoriasis-affected skin
Reduces skin roughness and inflammation
Body Scrub Products – Sugars
White Sugar: coarse; good for buildup and tougher spots (elbows, knees)
Brown Sugar: finer; better for dry or sensitive skin; exfoliates and softens skin
Raw Sugar: coarsest; excellent scrub but not for very dry or sensitive skin
Body Scrub Products – Coffee
Antimicrobial properties; grounds are effective exfoliants (do not dissolve in water)
Caffeic acid (antioxidant) may boost collagen and reduce premature aging
Caffeine: vasoconstrictor; reduces blood flow to skin; can brighten and smooth appearance; reduces redness/inflammation; helps with cellulite perception
Antioxidants (phenols) fight free radicals; may diminish sunspots and fine lines; reduces inflammation
Body Scrub Products – Oatmeal
Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals; anti-inflammatory
Contains saponin for cleansing (removes oil and dirt)
Key components:
Avenanthramides: phenolic antioxidants; anti-inflammatory; calms itchiness/irritation
Lipids: moisturize; maintain skin barrier; prevent dryness and eczema
Carrier/Base Oils Used in Body Scrub Products
Sweet Almond Oil
Argan Oil
Jojoba Oil
Grapeseed Oil
Sunflower Seed Oil
Olive Oil
Choosing the Best Carrier Oil
Consider comedogenic rating and skin type/area of use
Carrier Oil Details
Sweet Almond Oil
Comedogenic rating: 2 on the scale (0–3)
Qualities: rich yet gentle; suitable for sensitive, dry, delicate skin; safe for babies
Nutrients: omega-6/9 fatty acids, vitamins A/E, potassium, zinc
Benefits: reduces inflammation, excess sebum, eczema, acne; improves skin tone and reduces discoloration
Argan Oil (Moroccan oil)
Comedogenic rating: 0 (non‑comedo)
Benefits: light feel, highly moisturizing; reduces fine lines, discoloration, scars; decreases excess oil; protects against sun damage
Jojoba Oil
Comedogenic rating: 2 (non‑comedo)
Properties: liquid wax; resembles skin’s natural oils; absorbs well; antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory
Benefits: soothes eczema, acne, psoriasis; supports wound healing; rich in vitamin E, zinc, omega fatty acids
Grapeseed Oil
Comedogenic rating: 1
Properties: lightweight, dry oil; antimicrobial; high in polyunsaturated fats and vitamin E
Benefits: may reduce acne; easy absorption
Sunflower Oil
Comedogenic rating: 0–1 depending on processing
Properties: high vitamin E; antioxidant; supports skin barrier; high oleic variant offers longer shelf life and nutrients
Olive Oil
Comedogenic rating: 2
Properties: heavy, nourishing; high in fatty acids, polyphenols, vitamins A/E/D/K; hydroxytyrosol antioxidant
Caution: may be comedogenic for acne-prone skin
About Carrier Oils – Quick Summary
All options have different skin-type suitability and comedogenic profiles; choose based on skin type, area, and sensitivity.
BODY WRAPS
Physiological Effects of Heat
When body heats up:
Blood pressure falls due to vasodilation of superficial capillaries
Heart rate increases; pulse rises
Blood circulation improves; increased oxygen/nutrient delivery
Lymphatic circulation increases; aids toxin elimination
Sebaceous and sudoriferous gland activity rises; enhances skin cleansing
Body Wraps and Temperature Increase
Wrapping increases body temperature, circulation, and pulse
Vasodilation accelerates transport of nutrients to skin; skin conditioning effects
Heat promotes absorption of therapeutic ingredients via pores/hair follicles/epidermis
Perspiration and waste elimination increase; clays/muds help draw out toxins
Lymphatic circulation rises; aids toxin/eliminate fluid buildup
Heat helps relax tense muscles
Body Wraps: Process and Terms
Process: apply mixture of ingredients to skin; wrap client (plastic/mylar/cloth); wrap secured; relax 20 minutes to ~1 hour
Also referred to as: Mud wraps, Algae/Seaweed wraps, Cellulite wraps, Herbal wraps, Slimming wraps
Typical Body Wrap Products
Algae & Seaweed
Herbs
Clay
Mud
Algae & Seaweed
Macroalgae (seaweed): multicellular marine plants; brown, red, green groups
Microalgae: unicellular (e.g., Spirulina, Chlorella)
Two main categories: macroalgae and microalgae
Seaweed – Macroalgae (Brown, Green, Red)
Brown algae (phaeophyceae): most common macroalgae for skincare; contains phlorotannins (UV antioxidant) and fucoidan (protects elastin, aids wound healing)
Examples: Oarweed (Laminaria digitata), Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus), Kelp (Laminaria saccharina, Macrocystis pyrifera)
Green algae (Chlorophyta): antioxidant-rich; vitamin C; inhibits tyrosinase (melanin production) to reduce dark spots
Example: Sea Lettuce (Ulva lactuca)
Red algae (Rhodophyta): antioxidant protection; replenishes skin’s water reservoir; improves vitality
Examples: Irish Moss (Chondrus crispus), Pallas/Lithothamnion calcareum
Algae – Microalgae
Spirulina: cyanobacteria; anti-inflammatory; brightening; strong antioxidant capability
Chlorella: green microalgae; anti-inflammatory; brightening; neutralizes free radicals
Herbs in Body Wraps
General Benefits of Herbal Wraps
Muscle relaxation: warmth relaxes tense muscles
Detoxification: draws out toxins
Skin nourishment: essential oils and moisturizers
Stress relief: calming aroma aids relaxation
Improved circulation: heat increases blood flow
Aloe Vera
Hydrates skin; rich in water; suitable for all skin types
Wound healing: polysaccharides and gibberellins promote regeneration
Anti-inflammatory: beta-sitosterol reduces inflammation
Antioxidants: vitamins C and E
Fights acne; antimicrobial/antiseptic properties; soothes irritation
Turmeric
Anti-inflammatory: curcumin reduces inflammation; antioxidant activity to neutralize free radicals; promotes healing
Wound healing: antibacterial/antiseptic properties aid recovery
Acne treatment: anti-inflammatory/antimicrobial; regulates sebum
Brightening/even skin tone: natural acids and antioxidants promote radiance
Chamomile
Anti-inflammatory: alpha-bisabolol, chamazulene
Antioxidant: flavonoids/polyphenols
Wound healing: stimulates collagen; aids tissue regeneration
Antimicrobial: mild antimicrobial properties
Soothing: calming effect for irritated skin
Green Tea
Anti-inflammatory: EGCG
Antioxidant protection: neutralizes free radicals
UV protection (supportive): not a substitute for sunscreen
Antibacterial and hydration support; improves moisture barrier
Calendula
Anti-inflammatory: flavonoids and triterpenoids
Wound healing: promotes collagen production; faster wound closure
Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties
Emollient/moisturizing; provides hydration
Lavender
Anti-inflammatory: linalool, linalyl acetate
Antimicrobial and antiseptic; cleansing properties
Calming/aromatherapy benefits; reduces stress
Promotes wound healing; antioxidant protection
Gotu Kola
Collagen production: triterpenoids stimulate collagen synthesis
Wound healing: increases blood circulation; fibroblast activity
Reduces scarring; anti-inflammatory; antioxidant
Moisturizing; strengthens skin barrier
Stress reduction: adaptogenic properties
Rosemary
Antioxidant protection: carnosic acid, rosmarinic acid
Anti-inflammatory; antimicrobial properties; supports acne/eczema
Improves circulation; astringent; tightens pores
Enhances skin tone; may promote hair health
Thyme
Acne treatment: thymol and carvacrol (antimicrobial)
Anti-inflammatory; antioxidant; slows aging
Skin toning; wound healing; antifungal properties
Peppermint
Antimicrobial; menthol gives soothing cooling sensation
Anti-inflammatory; reduces redness and irritation
Oil control; antioxidant content; mild exfoliation
Aromatherapy: uplifts mood; relaxes
Ginseng
Anti-aging: ginsenosides (antioxidants)
Collagen production: maintains elasticity and firmness
Improves circulation; anti-inflammatory; moisturizes
Stress reduction: adaptogenic effects
Neem
Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory; rich in antioxidants
Wound healing; moisturizes; anti-acne benefits
Balances sebum production; purifies skin
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Antioxidant properties; anti-inflammatory effects
Antibacterial/antifungal actions; detoxification
Stress reduction; promotes skin radiance; improves blood circulation
Hibiscus
Antioxidant properties (vitamin C, anthocyanins)
Exfoliation (AHAs: citric/malic acids)
Hydration; anti-inflammatory; collagen production; brightening; anti-aging
Licorice Root
Anti-inflammatory; glabridin for skin lightening
Antioxidant effects; antimicrobial properties
Moisturizing and soothing; wound healing; balancing and detoxifying properties
Witch Hazel
Astringent; tightens pores and tones skin
Anti-inflammatory; controls oil production; antimicrobial; soothes irritation
Supports healing; antioxidant effects
Clays Used in Wraps
Bentonite Clay
Volcanic ash sediment; sodium bentonite swells like a sponge when hydrated
Dry: pale off-white; fine but smooths when pressed
Wet: off-white paste; smooth; thick; may clump if liquid added slowly
Benefits: absorbs excess oil; tightens pores; anti-inflammatory; anti-aging minerals
French Green Clay (Montmorillonite)
Fine-textured; green color from decomposed plant matter
Dry: neutral earthy aroma; pale green
Wet: paste can be slightly lumpier; mix slowly
Absorbs oil; soothes and nourishes; exfoliates; antibacterial; stimulates circulation
Fuller’s Earth (Multani Mitti)
Very oil-absorbing; helps stain removal; mild natural bleaching
Dry: earthy scent; off-white/greenish-tan; fine powdery; lightweight
Wet: smooth, dark grey to dark tan; thick
Benefits: tightens pores; deep cleanses; improves glow; soothes sunburns; antiseptic/anti-inflammatory
Rhassoul Clay
Red clay from Morocco; gentler, good for sensitive/mature skin
Dry: reddish-brown; fine; slight puffing tendency
Wet: dark red-brown paste; smooth; thin and easy to spread
Benefits: deep cleansing; exfoliation; improves clarity/brightness; balances dryness; mineral-rich
Kaolin Clays
Five types: White, Pink (Rose), Green, Grey, Yellow
White Kaolin: universal; exfoliates, unclogs pores, draws out oil; less absorbent; good for dry/sensitive skin
Pink Kaolin: gentle for sensitive skin; anti-inflammatory; exfoliating; balancing
Green Kaolin: gentle cleaner; purifies sensitive skin; absorbs oils while preserving moisture
Yellow Kaolin: softer to moderate; cleansing/exfoliating properties
Grey Kaolin: crude; used as cosmetic base; still mineral-rich
Muds
Hot Spring Mud
From geothermal springs (Iceland, Japan, USA)
Minerals; muscle/joint relief; anti-inflammatory; deep relaxation
Lake Mud
Nutrient-rich lake mud; promotes skin health; exfoliation; moisturization
Dead Sea Mud
High mineral concentration; hydrates and nourishes; youth-preserving antioxidants; may alleviate acne and psoriasis
Fango Mud
Italian spa mud (Sicily); detoxifying; muscle-relaxing; skin rejuvenation
Moor Mud
Moor lakes; organic plant matter; humic/fulvic acids; vitamins; exfoliating enzymes; aromatic scent
Peat Mud
From peat bogs; detoxification; rejuvenation; relaxation
Volcanic Ash Mud
Volcanic minerals (Mg, K, Ca, Si, Fe, Al); detoxification; gentle exfoliation; skin rejuvenation
Mud Blends
Biotone Black Baltic Body Mud: black Baltic silts; contains humic acids, lipids, vitamins; deeply hydrating; removes debris; enhances texture and moisture; cruelty-free; shelf life ~15 months
Amber Seaweed Mud (AMBER Seaweed Mud): seaweed/green clay with amino acids, vitamin E, green tea extract, and kelp; stimulates skin cells and detoxifies; shelf life ~2 years
European Rose Body Mud: French rose mineral clay with apricot and wheat amino acids, beta-glucan, rosa centifolia; hydrating; suitable for dry/delicate/aged skin; includes jojoba, avocado, peach, sunflower oils
Hydrating/Post Products Used in Class
Complete Pro Body Lotion: non-greasy, quick absorption; hydrates and soothes dry, chapped skin; available in scents (Green Tea & Lemongrass, Eucalyptus, Grapefruit & Citrus); ingredients include water, cetearyl alcohol, dimethicone, glycerin, and plant oils
Contra-Indications (General)
Acute skin conditions (e.g., acute eczema or psoriasis flare-ups)
Uncontrolled high/low blood pressure
Viral/bacterial/fungal skin disorders (e.g., verruca, folliculitis, tinea pedis)
Heart disorders requiring vasoconstrictors/vasodilators
Defective tactile sensation (risk of overheating/burning)
Severe varicose veins (avoid heat/body wraps on lower limbs)
Recent waxing/electrolysis (24–48 hours) to avoid infections
High temperature with infections (e.g., influenza)
Pregnancy; recent sunburn; severe bruising; lymphatic disorders (edema); liver/kidney/pancreatic conditions; migraines; diabetes; phlebitis; thrombosis; epilepsy
Safety, Comfort, and Temporary Contraindications
Recent strenuous exercise (wait at least 30 minutes)
Recent heavy meal
Recent alcohol or drug use
Menstruation (first two days) and client preference
Claustrophobia (can modify treatment)
After Care
Increase water intake for 24–48 hours
Avoid sun exposure for 24–48 hours
Do not use hot tubs, hot baths, or saunas for 24–48 hours
No exfoliation for 24–48 hours
Body Scrubs
Spa treatments using a granular exfoliant (e.g., sugar, salt, coffee, oatmeal) with a carrier/base oil (e.g., sunflower, jojoba, grapeseed, almond, olive) for binding and moisturizing.
Process: the body is manually scrubbed, rinsed, and moisturized.
Benefits of friction:
Exfoliate, hydrate, nourish the skin
Increase circulation (blood and lymph)
Also referred to as: salt scrubs, sugar scrubs, polishes, glows
Typical Granules Used in Body Scrub Products
Sea Salt
Epsom Salt
Sugar
Coffee Grounds
Oatmeal
Sea Salts and Minerals
Sea salts act as natural exfoliants and help remove dead skin cells; they absorb dirt, have antibacterial properties, and support hydration by maintaining the skin’s natural barrier.
Common types:
Dead Sea Salts (Israel)
Himalayan Sea Salts (pink, from ancient ocean deposits in Pakistan)
Celtic Sea Salts (unrefined, moist texture, light grey from clay)
Major Minerals Found in Sea Salt
Calcium: needed for building/repairing tissues, especially bone
Chlorine: controls body fluids, electrolyte balance, aids digestion as hydrochloric acid
Magnesium: carbohydrate assimilation, metabolism of vitamin C and calcium, prevents calcium deposits and kidney stones
Phosphorus: biochemical synthesis, nerve cell function, bone remineralization
Potassium: maintains nervous system and heart rhythm, aids muscle contraction, works with sodium for water balance, maintains blood pressure
Sodium: essential to digestion/metabolism, regulates body fluids, nerve/muscular function
Trace Minerals in Sea Salts
Bromine, Chromium, Cobalt, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Selenium, Silicon, Sulfur, Zinc (each with roles in nervous system, metabolism, antioxidant protection, enzyme function, skin health, etc.)
Body Scrub Products – Epsom Salts
Epsom salt = magnesium sulfate; origin: waters of Epsom, England
Uses for skin:
Hydration for eczema/psoriasis
Remove scales (psoriasis)
Soothe itch from poison ivy, mosquito bites
Softens psoriasis-affected skin
Reduces skin roughness and inflammation
Body Scrub Products – Sugars
White Sugar: coarse; good for buildup and tougher spots (elbows, knees)
Brown Sugar: finer; better for dry or sensitive skin; exfoliates and softens skin
Raw Sugar: coarsest; excellent scrub but not for very dry or sensitive skin
Body Scrub Products – Coffee
Antimicrobial properties; grounds are effective exfoliants (do not dissolve in water)
Caffeic acid (antioxidant) may boost collagen and reduce premature aging
Caffeine: vasoconstrictor; reduces blood flow to skin; can brighten and smooth appearance; reduces redness/inflammation; helps with cellulite perception
Antioxidants (phenols) fight free radicals; may diminish sunspots and fine lines; reduces inflammation
Body Scrub Products – Oatmeal
Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals; anti-inflammatory
Contains saponin for cleansing (removes oil and dirt)
Key components:
Avenanthramides: phenolic antioxidants; anti-inflammatory; calms itchiness/irritation
Lipids: moisturize; maintain skin barrier; prevent dryness and eczema
Carrier/Base Oils Used in Body Scrub Products
Sweet Almond Oil
Argan Oil
Jojoba Oil
Grapeseed Oil
Sunflower Seed Oil
Olive Oil
Choosing the Best Carrier Oil
Consider comedogenic rating and skin type/area of use
Carrier Oil Details
Sweet Almond Oil
Comedogenic rating: 2 on the scale (0–3)
Qualities: rich yet gentle; suitable for sensitive, dry, delicate skin; safe for babies
Nutrients: omega-6/9 fatty acids, vitamins A/E, potassium, zinc
Benefits: reduces inflammation, excess sebum, eczema, acne; improves skin tone and reduces discoloration
Argan Oil (Moroccan oil)
Comedogenic rating: 0 (non‑comedo)
Benefits: light feel, highly moisturizing; reduces fine lines, discoloration, scars; decreases excess oil; protects against sun damage
Jojoba Oil
Comedogenic rating: 2 (non‑comedo)
Properties: liquid wax; resembles skin’s natural oils; absorbs well; antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory
Benefits: soothes eczema, acne, psoriasis; supports wound healing; rich in vitamin E, zinc, omega fatty acids
Grapeseed Oil
Comedogenic rating: 1
Properties: lightweight, dry oil; antimicrobial; high in polyunsaturated fats and vitamin E
Benefits: may reduce acne; easy absorption
Sunflower Oil
Comedogenic rating: 0–1 depending on processing
Properties: high vitamin E; antioxidant; supports skin barrier; high oleic variant offers longer shelf life and nutrients
Olive Oil
Comedogenic rating: 2
Properties: heavy, nourishing; high in fatty acids, polyphenols, vitamins A/E/D/K; hydroxytyrosol antioxidant
Caution: may be comedogenic for acne-prone skin
About Carrier Oils – Quick Summary
All options have different skin-type suitability and comedogenic profiles; choose based on skin type, area, and sensitivity.
Customizing Body Treatments
Treatments can be customized by considering skin type, specific concerns (e.g., dry, sensitive, acne-prone skin, cellulite, inflammation), and client preference.
Customize granular exfoliants (e.g., finer sugar for sensitive skin, coarser for tough spots).
Select carrier oils based on comedogenic rating and skin needs (e.g., Argan for light moisturization, Sweet Almond for sensitive skin).
Choose wrap ingredients (clays, herbs, muds, algae) based on their specific benefits for different skin conditions or desired outcomes (e.g., Bentonite clay for oil absorption, Turmeric for anti-inflammatory properties).
Adjust treatment temperature and duration based on client comfort and contraindications.
BODY WRAPS
Physiological Effects of Heat and Benefits of Body Wraps
When body heats up:
Blood pressure falls due to vasodilation of superficial capillaries
Heart rate increases; pulse rises
Blood circulation improves; increased oxygen/nutrient delivery
Lymphatic circulation increases; aids toxin elimination
Sebaceous and sudoriferous gland activity rises; enhances skin cleansing
Wrapping increases body temperature, circulation, and pulse
Vasodilation accelerates transport of nutrients to skin; skin conditioning effects
Heat promotes absorption of therapeutic ingredients via pores/hair follicles/epidermis
Perspiration and waste elimination increase; clays/muds help draw out toxins
Lymphatic circulation rises; aids toxin/eliminate fluid buildup
Heat helps relax tense muscles
Body Wraps: Process and Terms
Process: apply mixture of ingredients to skin; wrap client (plastic/mylar/cloth); wrap secured; relax 20 minutes to \sim1 hour
Also referred to as: Mud wraps, Algae/Seaweed wraps, Cellulite wraps, Herbal wraps, Slimming wraps
Typical Body Wrap Products
Algae & Seaweed
Herbs
Clay
Mud
Algae & Seaweed
Macroalgae (seaweed): multicellular marine plants; brown, red, green groups
Microalgae: unicellular (e.g., Spirulina, Chlorella)
Two main categories: macroalgae and microalgae
Seaweed – Macroalgae (Brown, Green, Red)
Brown algae (phaeophyceae): most common macroalgae for skincare; contains phlorotannins (UV antioxidant) and fucoidan (protects elastin, aids wound healing)
Examples: Oarweed (Laminaria digitata), Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus), Kelp (Laminaria saccharina, Macrocystis pyrifera)
Green algae (Chlorophyta): antioxidant-rich; vitamin C; inhibits tyrosinase (melanin production) to reduce dark spots
Example: Sea Lettuce (Ulva lactuca)
Red algae (Rhodophyta): antioxidant protection; replenishes skin’s water reservoir; improves vitality
Examples: Irish Moss (Chondrus crispus), Pallas/Lithothamnion calcareum
Algae – Microalgae
Spirulina: cyanobacteria; anti-inflammatory; brightening; strong antioxidant capability
Chlorella: green microalgae; anti-inflammatory; brightening; neutralizes free radicals
Herbs in Body Wraps
General Benefits of Herbal Wraps
Muscle relaxation: warmth relaxes tense muscles
Detoxification: draws out toxins
Skin nourishment: essential oils and moisturizers
Stress relief: calming aroma aids relaxation
Improved circulation: heat increases blood flow
Aloe Vera
Hydrates skin; rich in water; suitable for all skin types
Wound healing: polysaccharides and gibberellins promote regeneration
Anti-inflammatory: beta-sitosterol reduces inflammation
Antioxidants: vitamins C and E
Fights acne; antimicrobial/antiseptic properties; soothes irritation
Turmeric
Anti-inflammatory: curcumin reduces inflammation; antioxidant activity to neutralize free radicals; promotes healing
Wound healing: antibacterial/antiseptic properties aid recovery
Acne treatment: anti-inflammatory/antimicrobial; regulates sebum
Brightening/even skin tone: natural acids and antioxidants promote radiance
Chamomile
Anti-inflammatory: alpha-bisabolol, chamazulene
Antioxidant: flavonoids/polyphenols
Wound healing: stimulates collagen; aids tissue regeneration
Antimicrobial: mild antimicrobial properties
Soothing: calming effect for irritated skin
Green Tea
Anti-inflammatory: EGCG
Antioxidant protection: neutralizes free radicals
UV protection (supportive): not a substitute for sunscreen
Antibacterial and hydration support; improves moisture barrier
Calendula
Anti-inflammatory: flavonoids and triterpenoids
Wound healing: promotes collagen production; faster wound closure
Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties
Emollient/moisturizing; provides hydration
Lavender
Anti-inflammatory: linalool, linalyl acetate
Antimicrobial and antiseptic; cleansing properties
Calming/aromatherapy benefits; reduces stress
Promotes wound healing; antioxidant protection
Gotu Kola
Collagen production: triterpenoids stimulate collagen synthesis
Wound healing: increases blood circulation; fibroblast activity
Reduces scarring; anti-inflammatory; antioxidant
Moisturizing; strengthens skin barrier
Stress reduction: adaptogenic properties
Rosemary
Antioxidant protection: carnosic acid, rosmarinic acid
Anti-inflammatory; antimicrobial properties; supports acne/eczema
Improves circulation; astringent; tightens pores
Enhances skin tone; may promote hair health
Thyme
Acne treatment: thymol and carvacrol (antimicrobial)
Anti-inflammatory; antioxidant; slows aging
Skin toning; wound healing; antifungal properties
Peppermint
Antimicrobial; menthol gives soothing cooling sensation
Anti-inflammatory; reduces redness and irritation
Oil control; antioxidant content; mild exfoliation
Aromatherapy: uplifts mood; relaxes
Ginseng
Anti-aging: ginsenosides (antioxidants)
Collagen production: maintains elasticity and firmness
Improves circulation; anti-inflammatory; moisturizes
Stress reduction: adaptogenic effects
Neem
Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory; rich in antioxidants
Wound healing; moisturizes; anti-acne benefits
Balances sebum production; purifies skin
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Antioxidant properties; anti-inflammatory effects
Antibacterial/antifungal actions; detoxification
Stress reduction; promotes skin radiance; improves blood circulation
Hibiscus
Antioxidant properties (vitamin C, anthocyanins)
Exfoliation (AHAs: citric/malic acids)
Hydration; anti-inflammatory; collagen production; brightening; anti-aging
Licorice Root
Anti-inflammatory; glabridin for skin lightening
Antioxidant effects; antimicrobial properties
Moisturizing and soothing; wound healing; balancing and detoxifying properties
Witch Hazel
Astringent; tightens pores and tones skin
Anti-inflammatory; controls oil production; antimicrobial; soothes irritation
Supports healing; antioxidant effects
Clays Used in Wraps
Bentonite Clay
Volcanic ash sediment; sodium bentonite swells like a sponge when hydrated
Dry: pale off-white; fine but smooths when pressed
Wet: off-white paste; smooth; thick; may clump if liquid added slowly
Benefits: absorbs excess oil; tightens pores; anti-inflammatory; anti-aging minerals
French Green Clay (Montmorillonite)
Fine-textured; green color from decomposed plant matter
Dry: neutral earthy aroma; pale green
Wet: paste can be slightly lumpier; mix slowly
Absorbs oil; soothes and nourishes; exfoliates; antibacterial; stimulates circulation
Fuller’s Earth (Multani Mitti)
Very oil-absorbing; helps stain removal; mild natural bleaching
Dry: earthy scent; off-white/greenish-tan; fine powdery; lightweight
Wet: smooth, dark grey to dark tan; thick
Benefits: tightens pores; deep cleanses; improves glow; soothes sunburns; antiseptic/anti-inflammatory
Rhassoul Clay
Red clay from Morocco; gentler, good for sensitive/mature skin
Dry: reddish-brown; fine; slight puffing tendency
Wet: dark red-brown paste; smooth; thin and easy to spread
Benefits: deep cleansing; exfoliation; improves clarity/brightness; balances dryness; mineral-rich
Kaolin Clays
Five types: White, Pink (Rose), Green, Grey, Yellow
White Kaolin: universal; exfoliates, unclogs pores, draws out oil; less absorbent; good for dry/sensitive skin
Pink Kaolin: gentle for sensitive skin; anti-inflammatory; exfoliating; balancing
Green Kaolin: gentle cleaner; purifies sensitive skin; absorbs oils while preserving moisture
Yellow Kaolin: softer to moderate; cleansing/exfoliating properties
Grey Kaolin: crude; used as cosmetic base; still mineral-rich
Muds
Hot Spring Mud
From geothermal springs (Iceland, Japan, USA)
Minerals; muscle/joint relief; anti-inflammatory; deep relaxation
Lake Mud
Nutrient-rich lake mud; promotes skin health; exfoliation; moisturization
Dead Sea Mud
High mineral concentration; hydrates and nourishes; youth-preserving antioxidants; may alleviate acne and psoriasis
Fango Mud
Italian spa mud (Sicily); detoxifying; muscle-relaxing; skin rejuvenation
Moor Mud
Moor lakes; organic plant matter; humic/fulvic acids; vitamins; exfoliating enzymes; aromatic scent
Peat Mud
From peat bogs; detoxification; rejuvenation; relaxation
Volcanic Ash Mud
Volcanic minerals (Mg, K, Ca, Si, Fe, Al); detoxification; gentle exfoliation; skin rejuvenation
Mud Blends
Biotone Black Baltic Body Mud: black Baltic silts; contains humic acids, lipids, vitamins; deeply hydrating; removes debris; enhances texture and moisture; cruelty-free; shelf life \sim15 months
Amber Seaweed Mud (AMBER Seaweed Mud): seaweed/green clay with amino acids, vitamin E, green tea extract, and kelp; stimulates skin cells and detoxifies; shelf life \sim2 years
European Rose Body Mud: French rose mineral clay with apricot and wheat amino acids, beta-glucan, rosa centifolia; hydrating; suitable for dry/delicate/aged skin; includes jojoba, avocado, peach, sunflower oils
Hydrating/Post Products Used in Class
Complete Pro Body Lotion: non-greasy, quick absorption; hydrates and soothes dry, chapped skin; available in scents (Green Tea & Lemongrass, Eucalyptus, Grapefruit & Citrus); ingredients include water, cetearyl alcohol, dimethicone, glycerin, and plant oils
Contra-Indications (General)
Acute skin conditions (e.g., acute eczema or psoriasis flare-ups)
Uncontrolled high/low blood pressure
Viral/bacterial/fungal skin disorders (e.g., verruca, folliculitis, tinea pedis)
Heart disorders requiring vasoconstrictors/vasodilators
Defective tactile sensation (risk of overheating/burning)
Severe varicose veins (avoid heat/body wraps on lower limbs)
Recent waxing/electrolysis (24–48 hours) to avoid infections
High temperature with infections (e.g., influenza)
Pregnancy; recent sunburn; severe bruising; lymphatic disorders (edema); liver/kidney/pancreas conditions; migraines; diabetes; phlebitis; thrombosis; epilepsy
Safety, Comfort, and Temporary Contraindications
Recent strenuous exercise (wait at least 30 minutes)
Recent heavy meal
Recent alcohol or drug use
Menstruation (first two days) and client preference
Claustrophobia (can modify treatment) - always ensure open communication and client comfort throughout the treatment.
After Care
Increase water intake for 24–48 hours to aid in flushing toxins and rehydrating the body, especially after increased perspiration during wraps.
Avoid sun exposure for 24–48 hours
Do not use hot tubs, hot baths, or saunas for 24–48