Cellulite: causes, treatments, tips and tricks
What is cellulite?
Cellulite, also known as "porange peel skin", is a condition that affects the appearance of the skin in areas with subcutaneous fat deposits, and does not in itself pose a significant health risk. However, worsening cellulite may be a symptom of other problems, such as lymphatic system dysfunction or problems with the removal of waste products from metabolic processes and the development of varicose veins. You can recognise it by bumps, dimples, unevenness and grooves on the skin. Due to the hormone oestrogen, women are much more prone to developing cellulite than men, for example. Nis most noticeable on the buttocks and thighs.
What causes it?
Cellulite is the result of subcutaneous fat cells pushing the skin and its surface layer upwards. When these fat cells accumulate and push the skin, the connective fibres that attach the skin to the muscles beneath it pull downwards, causing the skin to sag and create dimples. Cellulite tends to worsen if a person gains weight, but that doesn't mean it can't affect even the slimmest people. You may be able to control some cellulite factors, but the underlying causes of cellulite are things you can't control:
- skin structure,
- hormones,
- genetics,
- age.
How to get rid of it?
Stimulate the lymphatic system
A sluggish lymphatic system can contribute to cellulite. This is where a body brush or exfoliating glove comes in, which, through massage or gentle brushing of problem areas, can help stimulate blood and lymphatic drainage. You can also try alternating between cold and warm water in the shower. When you use cold water, the blood vessels constrict, and then they dilate in warm water. This will promote blood circulation, and the tissue becomes firmer.
Eat plenty of vegetables and don't add salt
Our skin is a reflection of our body. If you are healthy, it radiates from within. If you eat enough vitamins and a balanced diet – it's noticeable! One study from 2016 suggests that diets high in fats, salt and carbohydrates can contribute to cellulite, as fats can increase inflammation, salts can promote water retention and carbohydrates can help break down collagen. A high intake of fat, salt or carbohydrates can also help create more subcutaneous fat cells. Therefore, fight cellulite from the inside out by consuming foods low in salt, consuming green leafy vegetables rich in potassium, and avoiding processed foods and alcohol. You can also try a low carb diet to reduce cellulite, which can have a positive effect as it helps reduce fluid retention in the body, promotes the formation of collagen, which is important for the firmness and elasticity of the skin, and last but not least, leads to weight loss and reduction of excess fat.
Exercise
Fighting cellulite is a real problem for many women. Cycling, running, and using a stepper are your allies on the road to better-looking skin, because exercise not only tightens muscles, but also smoothes the skin, strengthens muscles and burns fat – reduce cellulite by moving a lot!
Radiofrequency skin tightening
Research has shown that high-frequency devices are really effective at reducing cellulite. In the study, 16 people were tested. This type of treatment was carried out twice a week for six weeks and resulted in a 71.87% reduction in thigh circumference and a 25% improvement in cellulite. By using high-frequency energy to heat the fat, the skin tightens and blood circulation increases, which over time helps to eliminate the appearance of cellulite.
Firm up your skin
You can also find several products in our range that act as a quick aid in the fight against cellulite. Using Ikarov anti-cellulite oil or serum with massage movements promotes blood circulation in the limbs, thus preventing cellulite. The oil also softens and strengthens the skin, and thanks to the Brazilian chilli pepper content, it also warms the subcutaneous fat, which leads to its breakdown. They are used on problem areas such as the buttocks, thighs, abdomen and arms, where the oil should be massaged until completely absorbed.
You can also try Biofresh lavender anti-cellulite body lotion and soap with a lavender scent that refreshes, soothes the skin and stimulates cell regeneration. The oils give your body smoothness and elasticity, and the special coffee extract reduces subcutaneous fat. Anti-cellulite lotion together with anti-cellulite soap, by massaging problem areas of the body, improve blood circulation and lymph exchange. The body lotion is completely natural plant-based, without parabens, petroleum products and synthetic dyes.
If you prefer a more fluid consistency, you can opt for WoodenSpoon anti-cellulite oil with black pepper and coffee extract. It is a natural blend with essential oils containing black and pink pepper, supplemented with coffee extract.
Ikarov Anti-Cellulite Oil Biofresh Lavender Anti-Cellulite Soap WoodenSpoon Anti-Cellulite Oil with Black Pepper