You’re not the only one who wants tips for getting rid of cellulite. If you’re feeling frustrated with skin lumpiness or dimpling in your thighs, butt, or arms, for example, you likely know the primary culprit for these issues is cellulite. Cellulite forms when fat cells beneath your skin push up against your skin’s connective tissues. As a result, it creates an uneven surface making the skin pucker or dimple. It’s understandable if you’re not a fan of cellulite and prefer a smoother appearance to your skin.
One of the body positivity movements online is embracing cellulite as normal and acceptable. While many people believe cellulite is unsightly, others aren’t bothered by it.
If getting rid of cellulite is a priority for you, you’re entitled to try out some remedies that may work. Just remember that cellulite is normal because everyone has fats in the subcutaneous layer of the skin, which is responsible for regulating body temperature. Cellulite is a natural part of human anatomy. Hence, regardless of what you eat, your exercise regimen, or the number on the scale, you could manifest cellulite in varying degrees. According to Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip, a dermatologist, the appearance of cellulite is harmless and very common, affecting around 80% to 90% of women.
If you’re desperate to get rid of your “cottage cheese” thighs or dimpled buttocks, there are many different remedies from exfoliating coffee scrubs to cellulite creams. They help you temporarily tighten the skin. But the best and long-term solution to bust the dimpling fats, especially if it’s causing you grief and affecting your confidence, is a clinical treatment at your dermatologist’s office. Learn more about potentially getting rid of cellulite below, as well as a deeper understanding of what cellulite is:
How Cellulite Forms
Cellulite appears due to the interaction of the connective tissues in the layer below the dermis (beneath the skin surface) and the subcutaneous layer. Cellulite buildup affects more women than men due to the different distribution of fats, muscles, and connective tissues. Notably, men have crisscrossing connective tissue structures, which by their nature are more solid and firm. In contrast, women’s fat cells are stored in a structure akin to a chamber. This hollow place favors fat expansion into the dermis. How much cellulite you have and how noticeable it is can be affected by the following:
- Genetics
- Hormones
- Age
- Lifestyle
- Diet
- Exposure to toxins
- Weight gain
- Physical activity
- Pregnancy
Studies suggest that if the women in your family are prone to cellulite, you’re likely to inherit this predisposition to build up fat underneath the skin. Body fat percentage is also a big factor because the more fat stores you have, the greater the likelihood of visible cellulite. Moreover, the thickness of your skin, which is also hereditary, can also affect how noticeable cellulite is. For some individuals, cellulite is only obvious when you pinch the skin, while for others it is obvious when sitting or standing.
Your body’s collagen fibers, which are found in between the muscles and skin, separate body fat into multiple pockets. If you don’t have sufficient collagen, it can expose the rippled connective tissues underneath, which is the dimpling you see on the surface. Unfortunately, as you age, you lose collagen, making the skin surface thinner and losing elasticity. With this, cellulite is even more visible.
Popular Home Remedies for Getting Rid of Cellulite
Home remedies can reduce the visibility of cellulite but they cannot eliminate it completely. You can try these home remedies for getting rid of cellulite, but set realistic expectations. They will temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite but the fat will still exist under the skin. The following can help lessen the appearance of cellulite in the short term.
Topical Creams
Many topical creams target cellulite. For example, Beautybio’s the Sculptor with Lipocare Cellulite Smoothing Body Cream is a best-selling cream that supposedly targets cellulite. It contains caffeine and green tea. Caffeine works by increasing blood flow in the area and acting as a diuretic. It changes the water content of the fat cells and dehydrates them, making them less visible. Meanwhile, green tea is rich in caffeine and is also a potent antioxidant that helps your cell repair itself. You need to apply a product like this consistently every day to maintain the results. Creams such as this also add moisture, making the skin appear smoother and firmer. But remember, always do a skin patch test on a non-visible area and wait for 24 hours to avoid any allergic reactions.
Retinol Lotion
Skin lotions containing 0.3% retinol, which is vitamin a derivative, may reduce the appearance of cellulite. A popular brand is Paula’s Choice Skin-Smoothing Retinol Body Treatment. It supposedly works by increasing collagen and making the outer layer of your skin thicker. However, you must consistently use a lotion like this for at least 6 months to see results. The caveat is some individuals are sensitive to retinol, causing redness, itchiness, dryness, or skin peeling. You must also be careful with sun exposure as you’ll be more prone to sunburns. Slather on SPF if you use retinol. And since this ingredient is photosensitive, only apply at night.
Dry Brushing
Use a dry brush like the Organic Pharmacy Skin Brush before you take a shower. It’s a natural-based brush that’s gentle on the skin. Brush your dry body gently using circular motions to stimulate lymphatic flow and blood circulation. This means your body removes dead skin cells faster. And since fresh oxygenated blood reaches the areas you’re targeting stimulates cellular turnover and growth. Consequently, this means tighter skin with less visible cellulite. You can start dry brushing at your feet and work your way up. Don’t overbrush to avoid skin irritation.
Try Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds are another popular product to supposedly minimize cellulite. If you regularly brew your own coffee, don’t throw away the used grounds. Make your own exfoliating scrub by mixing it with coconut oil and sugar. Then gently rub the grounds to the affected area. For best results, leave the mixture on for about 10 minutes. The caffeine in the coffee grounds could penetrate pores and then dehydrate all your fat cells and minimize cellulite formation. Moreover, scrubbing will remove dead skin, stimulate new skin cell growth, and tighten skin. If you don’t want to make your own scrub, you can try Frank Body Original Coffee Scrub to make your cellulite a little less conspicuous.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Get good quality apple cider vinegar because studies suggest this may help with overall weight loss and fat loss. Drink a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar diluted in water or juice three times a day. Alternatively, you can also use it as a direct solution to your problem areas. Take equal parts of vinegar and water, then apply it to your stubborn spots for at least 30 minutes before rinsing off.
Bear in mind, there is no magic in-home solution to take out cellulite at home. If you want fast results, you need to consult your dermatologist.
Top Medical Procedures for Getting Rid of Cellulite
If the presence of cellulite is affecting your self-confidence, you need a quick and lasting solution that can only come with the aid of your physician. Getting rid of cellulite effectively can typically only happen in a clinical setting. It’s akin to a button-puckered cushion. If you want to make the surface smooth, you have to cut the cords from deep within to release the buttons. And that kind of deep cord-cutting can only be done by the pros. Check out the most popular medical procedures for treating cellulite. Your doctor will assess which one will work best for you.
- Cool Sculpting: This non-invasive treatment freezes fat cells. As a result, they rupture and the contents are then absorbed by the body for elimination. You may need several treatments to see cellulite reduction.
- RF Cavitation: Radiofrequency cavitation relies on ultrasound waves to target and eliminates fat cells. This is another non-invasive procedure that entails rubbing the machine problem areas. It works wonderfully on the stomach and thighs. It will take several treatments to see noticeable results.
- Cellfina: If you’re not squeamish about needles, Cellfina is a procedure that relies on needles to break up the tough bands under your skin. It’s non-surgical but you will still get poked by sharp needles. However, this can get rid of cellulite in as little as three days with results lasting up to three years or more (depending on your diet and other lifestyle habits).
- Shock Wave Therapy: Another term for this is acoustic wave therapy and it’s specifically crafted to reduce cellulite. A machine is used to make the connective tissues vibrate in cellulite-prone areas. It stimulates collagen production and boosts skin elasticity. Expect an improved appearance after a few sessions.
- Laser Therapy: Infrared laser uses heat to break up the tough bands under the skin, making cellulite less noticeable. Expect improvements in skin surface and texture after a few treatments. This also makes your skin thicker and firmer.
- Injectables: Products like QWO are FDA approved to eliminate dimpling in your butt. Your doctor will curate a treatment plan that hinges on the severity of your problem. Visible results within a few weeks.
These are some examples of popular in-house treatments. Each of these procedures come with varying costs and different side effects like bruising, swelling, or redness. It is vital to speak with your doctor or medical aesthetician to assess the pros and cons based on your specific needs. Even if you spend the money for one of the above procedures for getting rid of cellulite, there’s no guarantee you’ll be happy with the results, so you have to manage your expectations.
Lifestyle Changes to Decrease Amounts of Cellulite
What you eat may affect cellulite so aim for a clean, balanced diet. People who eat too many fats, carbs, and sodium and not enough fiber are likely to have greater amounts of cellulite. Reduce processed foods with high sugar and trans fats as they make your body accumulate toxins. Furthermore, a healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and better overall health.
Incorporate an exercise routine to reduce your body fat. This can help in making your cellulite less noticeable. For best results, combine cardio workout with strength training. This helps you burn body fat while increasing muscle definition. As a result, you will look more toned with smoother and firmer skin.
Most of all, drink plenty of water every day, even if you aren’t thirsty. Dehydration can make your cellulite more pronounced. On top of that, water flushes out toxins that can contribute to cellulite formation. Make it a point to drink at least 8 glasses of water. Increase water intake when the weather is hot, exercise, consume diuretics, take medications, or drink caffeinated beverages.
If you truly want to make impactful lifestyle changes that fit your body’s unique needs, take a CircleDNA test. You will get tons of health reports, including your genetic predisposition towards cellulite. Aside from that, you will also get suggestions on the proper diet and exercise that’s most suited to your unique DNA so you can make the right choices for optimal health.
