Dimpled skin -- also known as cellulite -- can have a bumpy, unattractive appearance like cottage cheese or orange peels and commonly effects the thighs, hips and buttocks. Although cellulite is genetic and can affect even skinny women, it is usually exacerbated by carrying excess weight. Contrary to the claims of cellulite cream manufacturers, there is no quick-fix. Instead, the usual staples of healthy diet and exercise are your best weapons for reducing the appearance of dimpled skin.
Step 1
Eat healthily and watch your salt intake. A healthy body starts with a healthy diet. Fill your meals with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean proteins. Cut out the refined sugar, white wheat products, commercial snacks, fatty foods and excess salt. Too much salt encourages the body to retain water, which could lead to more noticeable cellulite.
Step 2
Perform cardio exercises three to four days per week for at least 30 minutes each session. Cardio exercises burn calories, which eventually leads to all-over weight loss. Cellulite is made up of fat, so as the pounds melt away so will the cellulite bumps. Choose cardio exercises that target your problem zone. For example, if your cellulite is on your thighs you might swim, jog, jump rope or use the stair-stepper at the gym.
Step 3
Strength train two to three days per week. Women often avoid strength training for fear of bulking up and rely solely on cardio for exercise. What they may not realize is that building muscle burns calories and replaces fat, leading to toned muscles and taut skin. According to the American Council on Exercise, participants in an exercise study that utilized cardio and strength training lost an average of 6 lbs. more then their cardio-only counterparts in a two- month period. An effective strength training session includes squats, lunges, resistance exercises with bands or using the strength training machines at your gym.
Step 4
Book a session with a personal trainer. Explain that cellulite is your obstacle and where on your body it is concentrated. Your personal trainer should come up with a routine that is designed to fight the fat and tone up your muscles in your problem areas. Any exercise routine should include both cardio and strength training components in order to be effective.
Tips and Warnings
- Dry brush your skin daily with a natural bristle brush to encourage circulation and breakup fat deposits.
- Always talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise or diet program.
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