Losing excess weight and strengthening muscles in the cellulite-prone thighs and buttocks can improve the skin's appearance, according to MayoClinic.com.
Massage offers an option for a do-it-yourself treatment that may help with cellulite. A report on cellulite treatments in the April 2008 issue of "Journal of Drugs in Dermatology" concluded improvements from various treatments tended to be of short duration. Though it remains unproven, the theory behind massage for cellulite involves improving lymphatic drainage and altering skin appearance.
Step 1
Dry-brush your cellulite areas daily with a loofah sponge or soft brush, advises Alexa Fleckenstein, M.D. A loofah is a natural, textured sponge. Dry-brushing involves rubbing your body with the loofah sponge without water or lotions. Use a circular motion to stimulate the skin in all directions. The theory is that dry-brushing removes dead skin and impurities and stimulates the skin, helping to smooth its texture. A long-handled bath brush works well for brushing difficult to reach areas.
Step 2
Rub olive oil on your skin. This provides a natural moisturizer and is most effective right after a shower or bath.
Step 3
Apply even pressure with your palms or a hand-held wooden massager on your thighs and other cellulite-prone areas. If you're new to massage, focus on smooth, steady strokes. Follow your muscles along your leg. Work slowly, breathe deeply and only press as deep as feels comfortable. Knead your skin with your hands the way you would knead bread dough, squeezing with both hands. Avoid pinching. Work the skin gently.
Step 4
Move more, advises Dr. Fleckenstein. A daily walk or other exercise you enjoy will help improve your muscle tone and circulation, contributing to healthy skin. Increased muscle tone may result in a less-dimpled appearance. Exercise helps to reduce stress and contributes to a positive body image and self-esteem.
Tips and Warnings
- Liposuction can't remove cellulite and may make it look worse, states MayoClinic.com.
- Avoid using excessive pressure on your cellulite. Too much force can cause bruises.
Things You'll Need
- Loofah sponge or soft body brush
- Olive oil
- Hand-held wooden skin massager with nubs
References
- MayoClinic.com: Cellulite: Treatments
- "Journal of Drugs in Dermatology"; An Evidence-Based Assessment of Treatments for Cellulite"; Wanner, Molly and Avram, Mathew; April, 2008
- "Own Your Health: Healthy to 100"; Alexa Fleckenstein, M.D. and Roanne Weisman; 2006
- MayoClinic: Cellulite: Causes
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