Can You Get Rid of Cellulite?

When it comes to skin care concerns, there is one that nearly all women face at some point or another, whether they admit it or not. We’re talking about cellulite. As common as it is annoying, cellulite can also be very stubborn to get rid of. However, research shows that there are some ways you can help make cellulite less noticeable, including tweaks to your own skin care routine, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). If you’re curious about how to treat and prevent cellulite appearance, keep reading for everything you need to know.

Where Does Cellulite Come From?

While it’s not a serious medical condition, little is known about what actually causes cellulite, according to the Mayo Clinic. Cellulite involves the fat cells underneath our skin. When they accumulate, they push up against the skin while the connective tissue simultaneously pulls it down. This causes that uneven surface appearance or dimpling.

Cellulite most commonly occurs on the thighs, hips, and abdomen, and most women—even women who are super physically fit—can have cellulite, according to the AAD. The AAD states that an estimated 80 percent of women—regardless of their body weight—have cellulite.  

Cellulite is also more noticeable with aging since our skin loses its elasticity as we get older, as well as in those who have experienced weight gain, which can make it appear more noticeable. Other contributing factors to the development of cellulite is a sedentary lifestyle as well as genetics.

So, why is cellulite more common in women than in men? According to the Mayo Clinic, this is because women’s fat cells are distributed differently—more so in the thighs, hips, and buttocks than our male counterparts. 

Which Cellulite Treatments Really Work?

Cellulite is both common and very stubborn, but new research and treatments are proving promising, according to the AAD. Treatments like acoustic wave therapy and laser treatments have been shown via research studies to help with the appearance of cellulite temporarily. Another method, vacuum-assisted precise tissue release has also been linked to diminishing cellulitis appearance. During this procedure, dermatologists use a device that contains small blades to cut the tough bands. After the bands are cut, the tissue moves upward to fill out and eliminate the dimpled skin.

One of the more invasive measures is Carboxytherapy, a procedure in which carbon dioxide (CO2) gas is inserted just beneath the skin. According to the AAD after these treatments, researchers found that the women had a little less cellulite.

Researchers have also found that some creams and lotions may help to visibly smooth the appearance of bumpy, rough skin, according to the AAD. The two skin care ingredients that show promise are caffeine and retinol. Per the AAD, products containing caffeine work to dehydrate skin cells, which can help improve the appearance of unsightly rough or bumpy skin. Retinol, on the other hand, can help thicken the skin, which also may help the appearance of rough or bumpy skin over time with continued use. Follow the instructions on the packaging of the product you're using to find out how long you will need to use the product.  

Can You Get Rid Of Cellulite?

While the aforementioned options may help temporarily smooth the appearance of skin, it is unfortunately not possible to make cellulite go away completely, according to the Cleveland Clinic. No amount of moisturizer or laser treatment can remove cellulite completely and indefinitely. The best we can all do, according to all of these sources, is to maintain a healthy amount of body fat—which means maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a healthy diet. 

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