Growing up in the eighties, I recall there being very few beauty lines aimed specifically at the body. There the regular body lotions like Vaseline, Dawn and Nivea, but targeted body care options with few and far between.
My late mom was a beauty loving gal through and through. She worked for Lancôme for almost 20 years and was always so well put together and perfectly groomed. I really was in awe of her and her beauty routine (as is obvious if you consider my chosen career!)
The one body product (if you can call it that, it’s more of a device) that had pride of place in her bathroom was her green Elancyl massage glove. She used it regularly, along with the brands soap that one used to pop inside the glove. She claimed this as her secret to perfectly smooth, dimple free legs.
Because of my mom’s affinity with Elancyl, it’s been a brand I’ve always trusted. I tried the glove (now called device) for the first time after I had my daughter – almost 15 years ago and the results were incredibly impressive.
I’m thrilled that Elancyl has a comprehensive range of body products that address most body related issues, from cellulite & stretch mark reduction to tummy & bust firming.
Below are some of my favourite’s from the brand I really want to share with you.
Slim Massage Device & Gel Set (R495) and Slim Massage Refill Gel (R195)
The iconic massage device has seen many an update since its launch back in 1971. Its effectiveness lies in the massage method that was developed in collaboration with a physiotherapist as a natural extension of the hand. The combined action of the rollers, which grip and roll the skin simultaneously while maintaining the ideal pressure results in more toned skin and less visible cellulite. Used in conjunction with the Anti-Cellulite Concentrate Gel, it reduces the appearance of cellulite, assists with micro-circulation and detoxification and refines the silhouette.
The formulas two key ingredient are Ivy & Caffeine.
Ivy extract works to improve elasticity and firmness while slowing glycation of collagen fibers – a phenomenon originating in the hardening of tissues (or cellulite as we more commonly know it). Boosted by massage, ivy is excellent at eliminating toxins.
Caffeine is commonly found in cellulite & firming products because it increases circulation.
You use the device and gel in the shower. Simply open the nozzle and insert it into the hole in the tool (as in the image). Press firmly on the tube to fill the reservoir and begin your massage. Be sure to rinse thoroughly after use.
The Slim Massage device and gel can also be used on the stomach and upper arms – see diagrams of the massage method below.
Slim Design Flat Stomach (R395)
I’ve used this formula many times before with great success. It works to re-sculpt, redefine and firm the skin on the tummy and waist area.
Its key ingredient is PCA, a Pidolic acid that firms and tightens thanks to its retracting effect on the dermal matrix. It’s forming action comes from the ingredients ability to reorganize the collagen fibers in the skin. Also included is caffeine (stimulates blood flow) and Xanthoxylin (natural ingredient from the Sichuan pepper) that prevents cellulite from recurring.
I love the subtle clean scent of this gel-like formula that absorbs in seconds, leaving the skin hydrated and smooth.
You simply apply 2 pumps of the formula to the belly area every morning using the following (really easy) massage technique:
1. Using a circular, clockwise motion, massage the belly 10 x
2. Pinch the skin from just under the breast, down to just past the navel. Repeat twice on both the left and right sides of the tummy.
A noticeable result should be visible after 28 days, but if you are also eating correctly and exercising, I find results are visible even sooner, like after two weeks.
Slim Design 2-in-1 Firming Oil (R295)
This is the newest product launch in the range and has a dual action:
1: THE AQUEOUS PHASE [Caffeine + Ivy] Reduces the appearance of cellulite, assists with detoxification and re-sculpts the silhouette by strengthening the skin’s firmness and elasticity.
2: THE OIL PHASE [Camelina Oil]Strengthens the skin’s elasticity and suppleness and helps reduce the appearance of early stretch marks (those that are still pink in colour). Camelina oil is a 100% natural plant oil very high in essential fatty acids (Omega 3). It helps improve the skin’s elasticity and flexibility and reduces the risk of stretch marks appearing.
To use, shake the bottle so the two formulas mix. Spritz onto thighs, hips and stomach using the massage method below:
If used correctly, results are visible from as little as 7 days (and they are, I’ve seen with my own eyes)
I just love the citrus fragrance of the product and even though it’s an oil, it absorbs quickly leaving no residue.
I must add that it’s all fine and well to use slimming (firming/anti-cellulite) products, but if you want to see visible results, you have to eat correctly and include daily exercise into your lifestyle.
Elancyl products are available at DisChem stores nationwide and online from TakeALot & Zando.
GIVEAWAY
I have an Elancyl hamper valued at R1185 up for grabs containing the following products:
1 X Slim Massage Device & Gel Set
1 X Slim Design Flat Stomach
1 X Slim Design 2-in-1 Firming Oil
To stand a chance of winning this hamper, follow Elancyl South Africa on Instagram HERE, then leave a comment below this blog post naming two ingredients found in the products.
Please ensure you include your email address (only I can see it) so I can contact you, should you be a winner.
I’ll announce the winners name on In My Bag’s Facebook page (Follow HERE) next week Thursday the 24 October 2018.
