Cellulite is a common problem among women. While not a serious condition, cellulite can make you feel self-conscious and unattractive. Honey massages have long been a popular home remedy to reduce unsightly cellulite, but the massage's effectiveness has not been scientifically proven.
Cellulite
Cellulite is typically considered to be an unsightly condition that most women and wish they would not have to deal with. Cellulite can make skin appear to be bumpy and dimpled. The severity can range from mild, where cellulite is only visible when the skin is pinched, to severe, where skin appears uneven and has peaks and valleys. According to MayoClinic.com, cellulite is most commonly found on the buttocks and thighs, but can also form on the lower abdomen, upper arms and breasts.
Effects of Honey
Honey is a humectant, an agent that attracts and retains moisture, according to the National Honey Board. This effect makes honey an ideal ingredient in a variety of health and beauty products, including cleansers. Many home remedy sources, such as Natural-HomeRememdies.com, claim that honey can help in reducing cellulite and toxins, but no scientific evidence backs up such claims. Nonetheless, honey massages are a popular home remedy for treating cellulite.
The Massage
Wash and thoroughly dry your hands before performing the massage. Apply a thin layer of honey over the area of skin that is to be treated. Place your hands or fingertips on the skin and pull them apart in opposite directions. Use little pressure at first, then increase the pressure as you progress. The massage should last about 10 minutes. Wash the massaged skin and your hands with warm water afterward.
Length of Treatment
Recommendations for how often or how long honey massage treatments should be applied vary, but most home-remedy sources suggest that at least several treatments are necessary for noticeable results. Fifteen massages performed every other day over a one-month period should provide you with a good idea if the honey massage is having an affect. If your skin has an adverse reaction to the massage, stop performing the massages immediately and see your doctor.
Scientific Insight
A honey massage is not a medically endorsed treatment. MayoClinic.com notes that no scientific evidence exists that honey, when massaged into the skin, will, in fact, help eliminate cellulite. Reports regarding honey massage's effectiveness are merely home remedy advice. If a honey massage does indeed appear to be effective, results will most likely be short-term.
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