Cellulite on the thighs and buttocks – how to get rid of it?

Cellulite is the bane of many women's lives. Whether we are in our 20s, 30s or 40s, this problem can affect any of us. It most often appears on the thighs, buttocks and stomach, and its presence can effectively lower self-confidence. Although cellulite is not dangerous to health, for many people it becomes a source of complexes. The good news is that there are many ways to reduce it and improve the appearance of the skin. In this article, we will present ways that can help you get rid of or reduce the appearance of cellulite on your thighs and buttocks.

1. What is cellulite?
2. Causes of cellulite
3. How to effectively combat cellulite?
4. Summary

What is cellulite?

Cellulite, also known as ‘orange peel skin’, is a change in the structure of the skin that results from the accumulation of fat in the subcutaneous tissues. This process disrupts blood and lymph flow, leading to unevenness on the skin's surface. Cellulite mainly affects women because their fatty tissue is structured differently than in men – in women's bodies, fat cells are distributed in a way that promotes the formation of unevenness.

Causes of cellulite

Cellulite can appear as a result of many factors, both genetic and environmental. The most common causes include:

Genes and hormones – heredity plays a key role in the development of cellulite. Hormonal changes, especially those related to oestrogens (female hormones), can influence the formation of cellulite, which explains why this problem mainly affects women. Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause and the use of contraceptives can exacerbate its symptoms.

Lifestyle – a sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity and poor eating habits (consuming too much trans fat, sugar and salt) lead to poor blood and lymph circulation, which promotes the formation of cellulite.

Water retention in the body – retaining excess water in the body can lead to a worsening of the ‘orange peel’ effect. This is often the result of an unhealthy diet, excessive salt intake, and insufficient water in the body.

Insufficient collagen production – collagen is a protein responsible for skin elasticity. Its production decreases with age, which can cause the skin to become less firm and cellulite to become more visible.

How to effectively combat cellulite?

Although there is no magic method that will instantly eliminate cellulite, there are a number of measures that can significantly improve the appearance of the skin and reduce the visibility of "orange peel".

Diet – the key to success

The first step in fighting cellulite is a proper diet. It is worth focusing on eliminating foods that promote water retention and slow down metabolism. The following is recommended:

Limiting salt and sugar – too much salt in the diet leads to water retention in the body, which promotes the formation of cellulite. Sugar, on the other hand, contributes to the accumulation of fat in the body, which can also exacerbate the problem.

Increase your fibre intake – fibre aids digestion and improves circulation, which is important in the fight against cellulite. It is worth reaching for wholemeal products, vegetables and fruit.

Drink plenty of water – hydration is key to eliminating toxins and improving the functioning of the lymphatic system, which can help fight cellulite.

Healthy fats – omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, nuts and seeds, help regenerate the skin, improve its elasticity and reduce inflammation.

"A diet that supports the reduction of so-called water cellulite should focus on maintaining water and electrolyte balance, supporting the kidneys and lymphatic system, and limiting factors that promote fluid retention, such as excess sodium, simple sugars and processed foods." Jakub Wiącek PhD student in neurobiology, lecturer at the University School of Physical Education

Physical activity – a fundamental element

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Exercise improves circulation, boosts metabolism and burns fat. It is worth focusing on:

Cardio exercises – running, swimming, cycling or brisk walking are excellent ways to burn fat, which helps to smooth the skin.

Strength training – exercises such as squats, lunges, leg lifts and Pilates help to firm the skin on the thighs and buttocks, as well as increase muscle mass, which improves the appearance of the figure.

Massages and beauty treatments

They help improve circulation and reduce fat. The most popular cellulite treatments include:

Chinese cupping massage – this type of massage improves blood and lymph circulation and cellular metabolism, which can help reduce cellulite.

Endermology – a non-invasive treatment involving mechanical suction massage, which improves the appearance of the skin and increases its firmness.

Needle mesotherapy – involves injecting active substances (e.g. caffeine or plant extracts) directly into the skin, which improves circulation and cellular metabolism, as well as accelerating fat burning.

Anti-cellulite cosmetics

There are many cosmetics available on the market designed to combat cellulite. They contain substances that improve microcirculation and promote fat burning. It is worth looking for creams and lotions containing:

Caffeine – accelerates cellular metabolism and stimulates fat burning.

L-carnitine – supports the transport of fatty acids to cells, which facilitates their burning.

Various plant extracts – e.g. from ivy, horse chestnut or green tea, which have firming properties and improve the appearance of the skin.

Counteracting stress

Chronic stress can contribute to the formation of cellulite because it causes the secretion of cortisol, a hormone that promotes fat accumulation, especially in the thighs and abdomen. It is therefore worth taking care of relaxation, meditation and rest.

Summary

Cellulite is a cosmetic problem that affects many women, but it is not a life sentence. There are many effective methods to reduce its visibility – from a proper diet and regular physical activity to professional cosmetic treatments. The key to success is consistency, patience and regularity. Although there is no way to completely get rid of cellulite, you can certainly improve the appearance of your skin, making it smoother and firmer, which will allow you to enjoy better well-being and greater self-confidence.

Sources:

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10324940/
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17694-cellulite
• https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/fat-removal/cellulite-treatments-what-really-works
• https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-rid-of-cellulite-on-thighs