Cellulite is common in women, so much so, in fact, that Mayo Clinic experts note that most doctors have come to accept it as a "normal occurrence." At least eight of 10 women have some cellulite, because female body fat is generally located in the thighs, hips and buttocks. As these fat cells build, they bump up against the skin as the fibrous connective cords attaching the skin to the muscle underneath pull down, creating an unpleasant dimpling effect under the skin. Cellulite, also called "orange peel skin" and "cottage cheese skin," won't harm you, but it isn't exactly aesthetically pleasant. It's difficult to get rid of heavy cellulite in the legs, given the limited options available.
Step 1
Be realistic about the benefits of expensive cellulite creams. A June 2009 article in the New York Times indicates that anti-cellulite creams only offer temporary benefits. Cellulite creams cause the skin to become mildly irritated, which induces swelling, temporarily camouflaging but not getting rid of heavy cellulite. To get the best results from these, you must continue to use them religiously.
Step 2
Loose weight. The Mayo Clinic notes that a healthy diet and regular exercise is the most effective way to reduce the appearance of heavy cellulite in the legs and other parts of the body. Strengthening and toning muscles in the problem area can reduce the appearance of dimpled skin, but cellulite won't go away entirely, the Mayo Clinic warns.
Step 3
Ask your doctor if treatment using lasers or radio frequency systems is right for you. Both types of treatment can yield improvements after numerous twice-a-week sessions, with results that are only temporary–usually around six months--notes the Mayo Clinic.
Step 4
Drink plenty of water and don't smoke. The National Institutes of Health says keeping your skin well-hydrated can help prevent cellulite from forming.
Step 5
Eschew expensive cosmetic procedures such as liposuction. The Mayo Clinic notes that this method of treating cellulite is ineffective–and invasive: the process involves a cosmetic surgeon slipping a thin tube under the skin to suction out fat. Liposuction can reshape your body, but it won't get rid of heavy cellulite and may only make it look worse.
Tips and Warnings
- According to the National Institutes of Health, your genes may play a role when it comes to cellulite–if you'll get it and how much. Hormonal changes and a slow metabolism may have a role in cellulite production, as well as eating a poor diet and going on fad diets.
Things You'll Need
- Anti-cellulite cream (if needed)
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