What Is Cellulite Really?
Cellulite is a result of the fat accumulation underneath the skin and pushes against the connective tissue creating the infamous dimpled appearance of the skin. It is a very common skin condition affecting about 98% of women. This is seen usually in the thighs, stomach, and buttocks.
Although cellulite is related to fat cells, it occurs not only in those who are overweight but also has a genetic predisposition. Lack of exercise, hormones and proper diet has a huge impact on the formation of cellulite. As of now, there is no known cure to completely get rid of cellulite but it can be definitely reduced.
Fighting Cellulite
Adding the appropriate components to the diet is the first step to fight cellulite.
1. Sunflower Seeds
These are a good source of vitamin E, potassium, zinc, and vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 helps in the metabolization of proteins that strengthen and repair connective tissues.
2. Saffron
According to Alan Roberts, Ph.D., saffron consists of an anti-inflammatory element that slows down fatty cells expansion.
3. Avoid Excessive Sugar and Salt Intake
Sugar is basically stored in the fat cells, hence too much sugar intake will cause the fat cells to expand. Salt intake should be restricted as sodium causes fluid retention making the existing cellulite appear worse.
4. Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds help sustain estrogen levels and enhance collagen growth. Collagen, a protein fiber found in connective tissues strengthens the skin which helps reduce the cellulite. Two tablespoons of flaxseed each day with any cereal or yogurt are more than enough.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium helps to reduce water retention and flush out toxins which in turn will reverse or reduce the cellulite, according to Dr. Shemek.
6. Water
This is one of the low-cost remedies to fight cellulite. Water helps flush out the toxins in the fatty cells. Also staying hydrated is important because it minimizes the appearance of cellulite. According to Dr. Engelman, dehydrated skin tends to show cellulite more. Along with the consumption of a healthy diet, regular exercise is also a must in order to fight cellulite. Few free hand exercise to help fight cellulite:
- Squats
- Jump squats
- Step-ups
- Leg kick-backs
- Side-to-sides
Also to be noted that aerobic exercises like swimming, dancing, running, walking, cycling also can be practiced. The main point is to take up any physical activity which is enjoyable and pledge to it. Apart from these, below mentioned measures are also widely tried by women worldwide.
7. Massage and Brushing
This is one of the promising remedies in the reduction of cellulite. Massaging can be done at home itself or by a professional massage therapist. It can minimize the cellulite by improving the lymphatic drainage. Also, massage creams are also available in the market for cellulite reduction but the main factor is to massage. The application of massage cream will be useless if massage is not done.
Similarly, daily body brushing also helps in the lymphatic drainage which ultimately eliminates the toxins accumulated in the fat layers. For best results, brushing is recommended before hitting the showers because dry brushing requires dry skin. Also, always remember, few massages or brushing will not definitely make the cellulite disappear. It has to be continued for quite some time consistently until the desired results are achieved.
8. Coffee Scrubs
The caffeine in coffee is, in fact, effective in reducing cellulite. The caffeine-filled scrub, when used topically, does two functions mainly. Firstly, it stimulates the lymphatic drainage and secondly, the caffeine in the exfoliant temporarily tightens and plumps the skin.
Coffee Scrubs9. Retinol Cream
Retinol, a form of vitamin A, helps lower the existence of free radicals which are responsible for the collapse of collagen. Retinol helps in keeping the skin smooth making the cellulite lumps less visible. For optimum results, a 100% retinol cream with vitamin A, C and E is recommended.
10. In-Office Treatment
If the removal of cellulite is more of a commitment, then a visit to the dermatologist is required for treatment options. One such treatment is Cellfina, recommended by Dr. Arash Akhavan, M.D. This is a minimally intrusive treatment with semi-permanent outcome and its effect lasts up to three years. However, this treatment is quite expensive.
So, it is apparent that removing cellulite completely is not possible but there are definitely measures to reduce it as much as possible. While the semi-permanent procedure can be opted, choosing the cost-effective methods and maintaining a healthy and active life will also do wonders.
