Cellulite seems to be one of those problems that plagues a number of individuals who aren’t entirely sure how to resolve the issue. Most would agree that the dimpled appearance of cellulite occurs due to problems/imbalance in the connective tissue and fat in a person’s body, but there are many theories about what may cause this imbalance. It seems that hormones, diet, lifestyle, and genetics all play a role but are not absolutes.
While those who are overweight tend to have a higher chance of getting cellulite, many thin women complain of it as well. It’s not a problem that miraculously disappears overnight, however there are natural remedies that can help balance the connective tissue/fat in the body and address the many possible causes. Either way, these 5 home methods are beneficial and worth a try.
1. Dry brushing
This is a remedy that feels great and helps stimulate blood and lymph flow in the body. Some specifics about dry brushing include:
- Dry skin brushing effectively opens up the pores on your skin. This is something you can — and should — be doing daily, even twice a day. Your skin should be dry, so the ideal time is in the shower before you turn on the water, but remember to not get the brush wet.
- You should only brush towards the heart, by making long sweeps, scrubbing and circular motions. Start at your feet, moving up the legs on both sides, then work from the arms toward your chest. On your stomach, direct the brush counterclockwise. And, don’t brush too hard, as the skin should be stimulated and invigorated but not irritated or red.
- The types of brush should include bristles that are natural, not synthetic, and preferably vegetable-derived. The bristles themselves should be somewhat stiff, though not too hard. Look for one that has an attachable handle for hard-to-reach spots, if necessary.
- In addition to sloughing away dry skin on areas like knees, elbows and ankles, body brushing promotes tighter skin, cell renewal and blood flow. This also helps the lymphatic system release toxins and aids in digestion and kidney function. You’ll also notice a glowy, smooth complexion.
2. Eating gelatin
Gelatin is largely composed of the amino acids glycine and proline, which you generally don’t consume in adequate amounts as they are found in the bones, fibrous tissues, and organs of animals. These amino acids are needed not only for proper skin, hair and nail growth but for optimal immune function and weight regulation. The various health benefits to gelatin include:
- Supports skin, hair and nail growth
- Good for joints and can help joint recovery
- Can help tighten loose skin
- Can improve digestion since it naturally binds to water and helps food move more easily through the digestive tract
- Rumored to help improve cellulite
- Great source of dietary collagen
- Source of protein, but its specific amino acids can help build muscle.
One theory is that the decline of gelatin containing foods in the traditional western diet has led to an increase in cellulite as most individuals don’t have the needed building blocks for healthy connective tissue. Either way, it’s yet another remedy that is beneficial for other reasons and will be valuable for cellulite reduction as well.
3. Myofascial massage
Cellulite tends to form in the superficial fascia, which is a layer of connective tissue below the skin that contains fat cells. Superficial fascia is fibrous--and due to inactivity, injuries, and improper exercise--adhesions in the fascia can form contributing to the bunched-up or rippled look of the skin. Not only does the superficial fascia become more fibrous, thickened and coarse, and less flexible, but it can also adhere to underlying structures that it normally slides over. Myofascial massage smooths this layer of connective tissue and can also help with some types of muscle and joint problems that are related to imbalances in the fascia. Try using a deep tissue foam roller on a regular basis--which can greatly help--as well as a percussive handheld massager.
4. Coffee scrub
Coffee scrubs can be beneficial in reducing cellulite as well. The massage and exfoliation helps skin by stimulating blood/lymph flow, whereas the caffeine in the coffee has a tightening effect. There’s several online coffee scrubs and wraps that work for reducing cellulite and loose skin. Besides, the coffee smells great and this scrub will exfoliate skin:
You will need:
- 1/4 cup coffee grounds
- 3 TBSP sugar or brown sugar
- 2-3 TBSP of melted coconut oil
Combine the ingredients to create a paste-like consistency and then store in a glass jar. Massage into skin for several minutes using firm pressure and wash as usual. Use 2-3 times a week. Results should be visible within a couple of weeks.
5. Weight training
Weight training and working with kettlebells are especially good for the hips/thighs/buttocks/stomach areas. Increasing blood flow to these areas can help remove cellulite, and lifting weights or using kettlebells are one of the most effective ways to build muscle and burn fat--both of which help minimize the appearance of cellulite. You can perform your exercises at home, the weights themselves aren’t expensive, and don’t take up much room to store. Just make certain the motivation is there and you have plenty of space to workout.
Final takeaway
Many sources agree that hormones play a large part in cellulite formation and that working toward proper hormone balance can help reduce cellulite. Combine balancing your hormones with weight training, a proper diet, a coffee scrub, myofascial massage, eating gelatin, and dry brushing, and you’re well on your way to getting rid of dimpled skin. Everything you do at home with the right intention is worth a try, even if it doesn’t get rid of cellulite, at least you’ve expanded your knowledge on natural remedies that can also help others.