Though entirely natural and purely a cosmetic issue, cellulite is a common concern for many women. Dermatologists say up to 98% of women experience cellulite, compared to only 10% of men. This skin dimpling usually appears post-puberty and tends to intensify with age.
Interestingly, cellulite wasn't always seen as a flaw. It has been depicted in famous paintings and sculptures for centuries. However, in the early 1900s, the French media began to scorn it as an unattractive feature, leading women to view it as an imperfection.
Read on to learn more about cellulite, whether it's an issue, and how to reduce its appearance.
What Is Cellulite?
First off, cellulite isn’t fat; that's a myth. Instead, it refers to the appearance of the skin when fat tissue pushes through the fibrous bands, called septae, that connect skin to muscle. This creates the orange-peel look many associate with cellulite.
These fibrous bands pull or tether the skin, leading to the dimpled appearance. Loss of skin thickness, loose skin, and sun damage, often caused by ageing, can also contribute to cellulite's appearance.
What Causes Cellulite?
There isn't a single cause of cellulite; several factors, such as genetics and lifestyle, are thought to be involved. Weight and muscle tone may affect whether you have cellulite, though even very fit people can have it.
Apart from genes and hormones, an unhealthy lifestyle can increase the likelihood of cellulite appearing. This is because those with an unhealthy lifestyle are more likely to accumulate fat cells, which push on the skin, causing it to dimple.
Poor circulation or a sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to cellulite. A lack of blood flow can restrict the body's ability to regenerate and repair. Without good circulation, skin can become weaker, making cellulite more likely to appear.
Can You Actually Get Rid of Cellulite?
In short, no, you cannot completely get rid of cellulite, at least not at home. Without surgery, those predisposed to cellulite will find it nearly impossible to remove. However, there are ways to reduce its appearance. Read on to learn more.
How to Reduce the Appearance of Cellulite
Does Working Out Help?
Exercises that firm and tone muscles and tighten skin can reduce the appearance of cellulite. However, one of the biggest misconceptions is that cellulite only affects people who are overweight. Losing weight may not always work, as lax skin due to weight loss can make cellulite more noticeable.
Coffee Scrub for Cellulite
While there's no magic cream to make cellulite disappear overnight, coffee scrubs can temporarily smooth and tighten the skin. The caffeine in coffee scrubs causes blood vessels to constrict and fat cells to temporarily shrink. The scrub also removes dead skin cells, creating a smoother appearance.
Dry Brushing for Cellulite
Exfoliating with a body wash, scrubbing glove, or body scrub can revive and rejuvenate your skin. However, dry brushing is particularly effective. This technique involves sweeping a stiff-bristled brush across your skin in long, even strokes. It helps reduce cellulite's appearance and increases skin elasticity.
To dry brush effectively, choose a brush with natural bristles. A long-handled brush is excellent for reaching areas like your back and bum. Start at your ankles and brush upwards towards the heart, using long, steady strokes. Focus on areas like your inner thighs, backs of your arms, and below your bum.
This technique increases blood flow and stimulates collagen production, which thickens skin and lessens the appearance of fat cells. Dry brush before you shower to wash off dead skin.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
As mentioned, unless you're ready for a medical procedure, you can't completely get rid of cellulite. The treatments above help reduce its appearance, but results vary. Dry brushing or exfoliating can often reduce cellulite straight away, though you'll need to maintain treatments as results fade.
Taking care of yourself and your skin through moisturising, dry brushing, and staying fit will make your skin look good and help you feel great, regardless of cellulite.
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