Cellulite is fat deposits that take on a lumpy appearance. This normal body condition appears most frequently on women's thighs and buttocks; this is due to the structure of the connecting tissue holding the skin together. Cellulite gets more noticeable with age, because your skin grows thinner and less elastic.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery technique that removes fat by sucking it out with a suction curette through a small incision in the skin. Liposuction works best on slender, fit individuals with small pockets of excess fat, rather than as a substitute for general weight and fat loss, according to the Washington University School of Medicine Cosmetic Surgery Institute. Although the technique removes fat, liposuction does not provide an effective treatment for cellulite, according to the Cosmetic Surgery Institute. Liposuction creates waviness under the skin where fat is removed, which can make the appearance of cellulite even worse.
Endermologie and Massage
Endermologie is a deep-tissue massage technique using an electronic suction device. Both endermologie and ordinary massage might reduce the appearance of cellulite temporarily by removing accumulated fluids and relaxing the connecting tissues, creating a less dimpled look on the skin, according to Dr. Len Kravitz and Nicole Achenbach at the University of New Mexico Department of Exercise Science. Thermotherapy, or application of topical heat, is touted as a cellulite treatment, but it actually makes the cellulite look worse, according to the University of New Mexico.
Creams and Ointments
Cellulite creams don't work, according to the American Council on Exercise. That's because they cannot penetrate the skin and smooth out the fat cells underneath. But some studies have shown a slight improvement in cellulite appearance after the long-term use of retinoid-containing creams intended to thicken or tighten the skin, according to the University of New Mexico. You must use these creams for at least six months to see any effect, and even then there might not be any improvement.
Diet
Dieting alone cannot remove cellulite, according to the American Council on Exercise. Dieting without exercise can lead to loss of muscle tissue, which will not improve the appearance of cellulite even if you lose weight. However, dietary lifestyle changes including reducing dietary fat intake and increasing fiber plays an important role in reducing your body fat levels and ultimately reducing the quantity and appearance of cellulite, according to the Huntington College of Health Science.
Supplements
Natural supplements designed to improve circulation can help reduce the appearance of cellulite, reports the Huntington University of Health Sciences. These effective supplements include fish oil, evening primrose or borage oil, grape seed extract, and sweet red clover extract. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements.
Exercise
Exercise is a necessary part of a successful cellulite-reduction program, according to the Huntington University of Health Sciences. Daily cardiovascular exercise and two or three sessions of strength training per week, along with a healthy diet, can reduce the appearance of cellulite and help you lose body fat and improve body composition, according to the American Council on Exercise.
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