Among the many anti-cellulite trends out there, natural methods are gaining more and more fans. We’re even rediscovering time-honoured rituals, valued for being both budget-friendly and simple. The sisal mitt is making a major comeback in bathrooms everywhere! But where does it actually fit into an anti-cellulite routine? And more broadly, what are its benefits for the skin?
What is a sisal mitt?
A sisal mitt is a shower and skincare accessory that has been used for centuries — it was already a hygiene staple in Antiquity! — primarily for exfoliating the skin. Originally, and as the name suggests, it was made from natural horsehair. Today, you can find versions in synthetic fibres as well as natural plant fibres — loofah, ramie, sisal, palm, hemp… Used dry or in the shower, it buffs away dead skin cells, leaving skin softer and more receptive to moisturising and nourishing treatments.
Like other organs in the body, the skin has a protective function, of course. Its outer layer, the epidermis (the skin layer above the dermis), is constantly renewing itself, and dead skin cells build up on the surface. That’s where using a sisal mitt comes in: through the mechanical action of friction, it exfoliates the epidermis and clears away those dead skin cells.
What are the benefits of using a sisal mitt?
When used correctly (more on that shortly!), regular use of a sisal mitt offers several benefits for the skin:
- As mentioned above, brushing with a sisal mitt helps to exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells. This leaves it looking more radiant.
- It is also ideal for preparing the skin before hair removal, as its slightly rough texture lifts hairs and frees the follicles. It can also help limit ingrown hairs, which can be painful and cause redness (the dreaded “strawberry skin” effect).
- Using a sisal mitt gives the skin an invigorating feel through the mechanical action of friction. If you experience heavy legs, however, it’s best to ask your GP for advice.
- Sisal mitt friction feels pleasant on all the areas concerned, from the thighs to the arms, where that unwanted sagging skin effect is a common complaint.
- Sisal mitt massage should be performed correctly, that is, with movements directed towards the heart, as detailed below.
- In an anti-cellulite routine, a sisal mitt exfoliates the skin and prepares it for a treatment. To learn more about the different types of cellulite, see our dedicated articles: aqueous (linked to water retention), adipose (linked to excess fat cell volume) and fibrous (linked to fibrosis).
- Finally, sisal mitt brushing can be a moment for yourself, away from everyday stress.
Another benefit of the sisal mitt — this time a practical one: it’s a brilliant alternative to body scrubs . One mitt purchased means fewer exfoliating products to buy!
Sisal mitt and cellulite: how to use it properly
1- How often to use it
Bear in mind that a sisal mitt can be too harsh for sensitive skin. Its slightly rough texture can cause irritation. It is therefore essential to limit use to once or twice a week, no more. Used daily, it can have the opposite effect to the one intended: a weakened skin barrier, a disrupted hydrolipidic film, and irritated capillaries (which may even burst, leading to the appearance of telangiectasia).
2- How to use it
While some people use their sisal mitt for dry brushing, dermatologists tend to recommend using it in the shower, ideally towards the end. It is also advisable to opt for cool to cold water: the vasodilation caused by hot water can lead to micro-trauma in the blood vessels.
The massage with a sisal mitt should follow a specific technique. Movements should be firm and energetic, but not forceful, to avoid irritation. The friction combines small circular movements over cellulite-prone areas (thighs, buttocks, hips, stomach) with smoothing strokes inspired by certain massage techniques. Smoothing movements should always be directed towards the heart and the lymph nodes, located at:
- The neck (submandibular, cervical, submental)
- The armpit (axillary)
- The chest (bronchial)
- The abdomen (aortic)
- The lower abdomen (iliac)
- The groin (inguinal)
- The knee (popliteal)
So, work from the ankle up to the knee, from the knee up to the groin, from the wrist up to the shoulder (for arm cellulite), from the pelvic area up towards the stomach, from the back of the knee up to the lower back… and so on!
Some people use their sisal mitt on its own, while others prefer to apply soap, shower gel or even a shower oil or anti-cellulite oil (such as ours!). It’s entirely a matter of personal preference and comfort! You can also combine sisal mitt use with an anti-cellulite treatment applied once you’ve stepped out of the shower and dried off. Our Cryo Cellulite Cream is the perfect complement!
3- Which areas of the body
A sisal mitt can be used on all areas of the body — whether affected by cellulite or prone to rough patches — except the mucous membranes, face and chest. The skin in these areas is thin and delicate and requires specific care. It should also be noted that using a sisal mitt is not recommended if you have a skin condition: wounds, cuts, spots, sunburn, redness or a skin disease. This advice also applies to those with severe venous insufficiency or a history of phlebitis.
How to choose the right anti-cellulite sisal mitt
It all comes down to personal preference! The key is finding the texture and level of firmness that suits you best. Some materials are noticeably rougher than others. Animal hair (horse, goat, ox) tends to be quite firm, while certain plant fibres are considerably softer. We recommend heading to a shop to feel the different textures and find the one that best suits your skin type. If you follow a vegan lifestyle, you’ll naturally gravitate towards mitts made from plant-based natural fibres.
There are also different shapes available, depending on how you plan to use your mitt. For use on cellulite-prone areas, a classic mitt, shaped like a wash glove or mitten, works perfectly well. If you want to treat your whole body, you might also consider investing in a friction strap: a long sisal band with two handles that makes it easy to exfoliate hard-to-reach areas like the back. It can just as easily be used on cellulite-prone areas: love handles, thighs, legs.
How to clean and care for your sisal mitt
After each use, give your sisal mitt a thorough rinse under clean water to remove any traces of skin, soap, shower gel or oil. Squeeze out the excess water without wringing it, then leave it to air-dry somewhere well ventilated rather than in the shower, where it stays damp.
Every so often, give it a deeper clean with a little mild soap, then rinse and dry it in the same way. Once the fibres start to flatten, fray or lose their shape, it’s time for a new one: a worn-out mitt is far less pleasant to use on your skin.
Frequently asked questions
What is a sisal mitt used for?
A sisal mitt is mainly used to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, so it feels softer and is more receptive to moisturisers. It’s also handy for prepping the skin before hair removal and for massaging cellulite-prone areas such as the thighs, buttocks, hips and stomach.
How do you use a sisal mitt?
It’s best used in the shower, ideally towards the end, with cool water. Use firm, energetic movements without pressing too hard: small circles over the areas you want to focus on, followed by smoothing strokes always directed towards the heart. You can use it on its own or with soap, shower gel or a shower oil.
How often should you use a sisal mitt?
Stick to once or twice a week, no more. Its rough texture can irritate sensitive skin, and daily use may weaken the skin barrier and disrupt the hydrolipidic film. Avoid using it on broken skin, after too much sun, or if you have redness or a skin condition.
Where can I find a good sisal mitt?
The easiest option is to head to a shop so you can feel the different textures and pick the one that suits your skin. Animal hair (horse, goat, ox) is very firm, whereas some plant fibres (loofah, ramie, sisal, hemp…) are softer. If you’re vegan, go for a mitt made from plant fibres.
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Useful categories: Anti-Cellulite Care, Anti-Cellulite Solutions.
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