How to Get Rid of Cellulite Through Massage

Cellulite massage works to reduce unsightly bumps and dimples. Deep-tissue massage for cellulite improves blood flow to the area and softens the fatty tissues underneath the skin. A good massage also helps the lymph system drain, allowing accumulated fluids to be released. One advantage to a properly draining lymph system is that toxins do not have the chance to accumulate in your fatty tissues, reducing bumps and dimples.

Step 1

Prepare your massage oil. Mix peppermint and lavender essential oils together with carrier oil at the rate of three drops each peppermint and lavender to 1 tablespoon of carrier oil. Peppermint stimulates the skin and the senses, and lavender calms and heals. Keep this in a small dish or plastic squeeze bottle for easy access.

Step 2

Prepare a comfortable space to perform the massage. If you are performing the massage yourself, sit comfortably and make sure you can access all the areas necessary. Right before a shower is ideal, according to Ayurvedic massage wisdom. If someone else is performing the massage, make sure you are both comfortable.

Step 3

Begin by warming the oil gently to body temperature and smoothing it over the entire area to be massaged. This gives the oil time to soak into your skin and soften it.

Step 4

Knead the problem areas with large motions. Roll the flesh through your fingers and palm, reaching deep into the tissues with your fingertips. You may go as fast or as slow as you like. Massage each area of the body for at least five minutes to reach maximum effect.

Step 5

Take a shower if necessary, though your skin will have absorbed most of the oil. Use a loofah or other type of exfoliating cloth to gently buff the dead skin cells away.

Tips and Warnings

  • There is no "cure" for cellulite. It is a result of the natural process of the body storing fat right underneath the skin. You can reduce the appearance of cellulite through massage but will not cure it. Exercising is a good way to reduce fat cell deposits in general. Aerobic workouts, weight lifting, yoga and tai chi are excellent exercises to reduce fat. Be patient. You will have to go through several massage sessions before you begin to see results. Performing a self-massage every day is ideal, but getting someone else to massage hard-to-reach areas should be done two or three times a week.

Things You'll Need

  • Peppermint essential oil
  • Lavender essential oil
  • Carrier oil
  • Loofah or exfoliating cloth

References

Article reviewed by SMG Last updated on: Dec 20, 2009

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