A skin condition which results in lumpy-looking or dimpled skin, cellulite has a higher incidence in women than in men. Cellulite tends to show up more in the area around the thighs and butt and although it does not really pose a serious health concern, some people find it unsightly or unpleasant to look at, which is why they resort to different treatment methods to remove cellulite.

Causes of cellulite

No specific cause for cellulite has been determined but it usually happens when the fatty tissue under the skin pushes into the connective tissue, causing the skin to protrude and show bumps and bulges.

There are, however, some factors that could increase your chances of developing cellulite. These include changes in the production of hormones like estrogen and insulin as the body ages.

Some people are also genetically predisposed to cellulite because of their metabolism and skin texture. Finally, if your diet is mainly unhealthy, you smoke or you are not physically active, your chances of developing cellulite are also higher.

How To Get Rid Of Cellulite

Get moving

Aside from strengthening your body’s systems and generally improving your health, physical activity can help make your skin and muscles firm. The firmness of your muscles contributes to the smooth appearance of your skin, preventing sagging. At the same time, as you exercise, the fat in your body overall is reduced, which lessens the fat under your skin, one of the factors involved in developing cellulite.

Control your portions

Exercise is most effective when paired with a healthy diet. To shed excess weight and eliminate fat in your body especially in cellulite-prone areas, cut down on your serving portions at mealtimes and snacks. Choose foods low in sugar and carbohydrates and consume more fiber.

A different kind of massage

A special type of massage called Endermologie has been used for several years now to improve the circulation in your body and spread out the fat more uniformly under the skin. An appliance produces suction motions that tug and press against body parts with cellulite. After a few treatments, results will start to show but the treatment will need to be maintained and repeated after some time to retain the effects.

Try special creams or ointments

Topical products that target cellulite are also available over the counter. These ointments and creams have to be applied on the skin regularly and their key ingredient is usually either retinol or caffeine. Retinol, which is known for diminishing wrinkles on the face, also works to make the skin firmer, minimising cellulite. The effect of caffeine is to reduce the fat in the skin.

Laser treatment

Contrary to what most people think, liposuction has not been proven effective in eliminating cellulite. The most recommended treatment for cellulite if you’ve got a moderate to severe case is laser treatment. The treatment utilizes a combination of infrared light therapy, together with massage or liposuction.

In invasive laser treatment, which is best for cellulite, the light is targeted using a probe right under the skin to melt fat and to improve the texture of skin cells by encouraging the growth of collagen.