Every year, as summer approaches and the promise of beach days approaches, the pinch-and-roll massage, or as it’s traditionally known, returns to a hot topic among those looking to wear their bikini with confidence. While this beauty massage has been touted for its ability to banish cellulite, many wonder about its effectiveness in shedding those extra pounds and the risks it may pose.
Understanding the Pinch-and-Roll Technique
This method is not new. is a tried and tested massage technique aimed at tightening and toning the skin. “Its goal is to lift the epidermis to remove subcutaneous fat. It involves lightly pinching the skin between the thumb and forefinger while moving upwards to boost blood circulation to the targeted areas,” says Alexandra Murcier, dietitian-nutritionist.
Pinch-and-roll vs. Lymphatic Drainage: Spotting The Difference
While pinch-and-roll is designed to combat cellulite by removing clumps of fat through targeted movements, lymphatic drainage caters to those with circulation issues with a gentler approach. “It’s a gentler massage that aims to stimulate the body’s lymph circulation, thus helping to eliminate waste and toxins,” adds Dr. Nina Cohen-Koubi.
Can pinch-and-roll really eliminate cellulite?
“Yes, in terms of enhancing venous and lymphatic circulation, pinch-and-roll is recommended for the treatment of cellulite. However, it is a painful massage and should be part of a comprehensive approach,” advises the nutritionist.
Is it a magic solution to weight loss?
By itself, pinch-and-roll can’t work miracles: “While it can visually slim down by improving skin texture and reducing the ‘orange peel’ effect, this method alone does not lead to sustainable weight loss. For noticeable silhouette results, this massage should be combined with a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle and regular physical activity,” emphasizes Murcier. “It’s just one of many tools for body care. A holistic approach, taking into account the patient’s overall condition and environment, is crucial for positive, lasting weight loss results,” adds Cohen-Koubi.
Where to experience Pinch-and-Roll?
This massage can be done by yourself at home, by a professional masseuse or physiotherapist or in a specialized beauty salon, mechanically. “However, be wary of professionals who claim weight loss is only possible through pinch and roll sessions. this method does not allow that,” the nutritionist repeats.
Manual or Mechanical Pinch-and-roll: Which Should I Choose?
“For those who are too lazy to massage daily, mechanical pinch and roll may be the best option,” suggests Murcier. This means that a machine performs the treatment, sucking and rolling the skin to mimic the movements of the masseuse’s hands. However, the institute’s treatments can be expensive, around €25 for half an hour, usually sold in a package of 10 to 12 sessions. “In terms of performance, the old, manual version has nothing to envy the mechanics,” says shades. The key is regularity.
Effectively self-managed pinch-and-roll
Use oil or cream
“The application of oil or cream makes the massage more pleasant and facilitates movement, thus enhancing its effects on the skin: flexibility, tonicity.”
Massage from bottom to top
“Massage should be done from the bottom up to stimulate blood circulation in areas prone to cellulite.” These mainly include the thighs, buttocks, legs, knees, abdomen and arms.
Use a loofah
“After pinch-and-rolling and just before showering, using a loofah to give a quick massage to the targeted area is a good way to stretch the skin and exfoliate, removing dead cells,” Murcier adds. . To activate microcirculation, finish with a splash of cold water.
How much time should you spend each day on Pinch and Roll?
“When you do it at home, ten minutes a day can be enough to see changes after a few days, but again, it varies by person: diet, body shape, genetics…” Murcier continues.
Improved Pinch-and-Roll effects
Build it into a daily routine
“To fully benefit from pinch-and-roll, it should be practiced daily or at least every other day. It’s ideal to incorporate it into an enjoyable routine for regular compliance,” advises Murcier.
Eat Healthy
“Combining the pinch-and-roll with a proper diet, opting for high-fiber, low-glycemic foods such as avocados or almonds is vital. Reducing your overall salt intake (a cause of water retention) while staying well hydrated are also good practices,” continues Murcier. Don’t forget the importance of eating regularly, chewing well and having a light dinner.
Stay active
“Getting some exercise in the morning, walking regularly and choosing to take stairs when possible are other ways to maximize the effects of the sting. Water-based activities, such as water cycling or swimming with fins, also work well against cellulite,” recalls Murcier.
Maintain consistency
“After the pinch-and-roll sessions are completed, it is important to continue with the good practices established during the sessions. healthy diet, physical activity…otherwise, the orange peel will probably come back.”
Focus on mindset
“When starting a weight loss wellness journey, it’s important to work with your mindset and ask the right questions: why do you want to lose weight? What is your ideal weight and why?’ states psychosomatic expert, Cohen-Cubi.
Embrace Self-Acceptance
“Even today, the portrayal of the ‘perfect’ physique puts pressure on women. They internalize this ideal, thinking they have to be thin to be attractive instead of accepting their physique and aiming for a harmonious body in which they feel good,” points out the nutritionist. He adds: “All these ‘quick and effective’ weight loss methods, including pinch and roll, reinforce the idea that losing weight is obvious when it comes to a deep commitment that often requires professional support.
Pinch-and-roll: Possible side effects
Pain, soreness, bruising or fatigue may occur after a sting session. Cohen-Koubi recalls: “Whether manual or mechanical, this massage method is quite aggressive on the body. Some women believe that the more it hurts, the more effective it will be, but I am convinced that one can improve aesthetics without pain. Instead of pricks, I would recommend massage with ultrasound or infrared waves, just as effective and much gentler.”
Pinch-and-roll: When to avoid
“Pinch-and-roll should be especially avoided by people with serious circulatory problems (venous thrombosis, phlebitis, varicose veins…) or hemophilia: the bleeding risk is significant. People with cancer should also be careful. I wonder if this type of massage can risk the cells spreading to other parts of the body…?” For pregnant or lactating women, the nutritionist is equally clear: “I advise not to push, it is better not to take risks during and after pregnancy.”
While pinch-and-roll continues to attract many who seek perfection, it is clear that this technique should be approached with caution.
