Thalassotherapy is a hydrotherapeutic treatment meaning it uses external application of water for a health or beauty benefit. It involves using the natural properties of the seawater and ocean-dwelling plants for skin rejuvenation. Having originated in France, thalassotherapy is considered a natural remedy, used with a combination of mineral elements from seawater, skin care products and hot water.

It is believed that the sea water used in thalassotherapy is similar in electrolyte concentration to that of the blood plasma in the body. Apparently this allows for greater absorption of essential trace elements; like magnesium, potassium, calcium and other mineral salts, directly into the skin. The reaction of thalassotherapy on the skin results in the skin pore expanding allowing oligo-elements to filter into the deeper layers of the skin. While many in the beauty industry swear by thalassotherapy, the scientific community is cautious about this treatment due to the numerous, and at times outrageous, claims.

Different Types of Thalassotherapy

Thalassotherapy is available in various forms of application. These include :

• body massage incorporating seaweed oils
• baths combining seawater and seaweed
• seaweed wraps
• mud baths using seawater

The popular choice in thalassotherapy is the seaweed wrap.

Seaweed Wrap Treatment

The seaweed wrap treatment involves the combination of seaweed, therapuetic herbs and a cloth-like material that is soaked and tightly wrapped around the body. A thermal blanket is placed over the body for approximately an hour. After this time the blanket and the seaweed wrap is removed. The residue of the seaweed products, oils and herbs are gently massaged into the skin. This increases blood circulation and apparently detoxifies the body removing accumulated toxin build up. The seaweed body wrap helps to disperse local fatty tissue deposits, leaving the skin nourished and healthy looking. The skin also absorbs minerals that are essential for the restoration of its tone and vitality.

Benefits of Thalassotherapy

The beauty and cosmetic industry claims that the following health benefits can be derived from thalassotherapy. While the medical fraternity will scoff at some of these outrageous claims, thalassotherapy is still widely practiced globally with hundreds of thousands of men and women vouching for its benefits.

• The healing properties of salt water a administered in thalassotherapy helps in the management of high blood pressure, asthma and muscle atrophy.
• This treatment is the natural defense against aging as it combats the physical signs of aging by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• The therapeutic effect of water on the skin induces relaxation. This helps to reduce stress and improve sleep patterns.
• There is a decreased appearance of cellulite as blood circulation is improved resulting in the prevention of toxin accumulation.
• Due to the increase in blood circulation the cardiovascular function is improved.
• Seaweed wrap is widely used for weight loss as it allegedly increases the body’s metabolism rate. The treatment also firms the skin.
• Skin cleansing and detoxification usually occurs as accumulated toxins are removed through the pores.
• Nutrition supplementation for the skin and body as a poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and stress depletes the body of vital minerals and elements even in well fed individuals.
• The additional nutrients and relaxing effect of thalassotherapy boosts the immune system.
• The high electrolyte concentration within sea water assists in reducing muscle cramps, surface inflammation and aches and pains.

Many of these benefits have not been verified by clinical studies by the beauty industry continues to advocate the health and beauty benefits of thalassotherapy. However, you should consult with your medical doctor before undertaking any alternative, even if cosmetic, treatment and if you have chronic conditions.