Cellulite treatments is something most of us have thought about seeking. Sometimes our cellulite is just a slight dimpling on our thighs or buttocks, and other times it could be tight and deep like an orange peel. Sure, it’s only cosmetic, but we still don’t want to deal with it.
What is Cellulite?
Cellulite is caused when fat cells expand and push up against the skin. While the fat cells expand, fibrous connective cords connected to the skin pull down and create an uneven surface, which creates those dimples. The good news is because cellulite is so common, there are many cellulite treatments that can remove and prevent cellulite.
Who Gets Cellulite?
You’re definitely not alone in this. Around 80-90% of people have cellulite around their body and it's usually caused by weight gain or genetics. But weight is subjective. Even supermodels have complained of having cellulite, so don’t think the appearance of cellulite necessarily correlates to your weight.
Both men and women can get cellulite, although it’s more common in women.
Professional Cellulite Treatments
Professional cellulite treatments are the best way to get rid of your stubborn cellulite. Here are a few favorites and see which one is right for you.
Cellulaze
Cellulaze is a minor procedure which uses laser energy to melt fat cells and cut those fibrous connective cords. These connective cords are actually pulling down on your skin, giving it an uneven texture. Cellulaze also helps stimulate collagen production, which can tighten the skin.
The average recovery time is short. After a day or two you can go back to work and light exercise. A compression garment is recommended two to four weeks after the treatment to help with bruising or swelling. The average cost for the procedure is $2,500-$9,500 and results can be seen within 3 to 12 months, so you need a good deal of patience.
Cellfina
Cellfina is one of the newer cellulite treatments that uses subsicions with miroblades to target cellulite. These tiny needles loosen the connective fibrous cords under your skin, so cellulite and dimples are not visible. Cellfina can also treat scars and wrinkles.
The treatment length varies on the amount of cellulite treated. On average, each treatment takes about an hour, and a numbing gel will be applied, so there shouldn’t be any pain. In fact, more than 90% of users reported no bruising after four weeks. The average cost of treatment is around $3,500 to $5,500.
Some people have seen results in as little as three days, with some still seeing results after three years.
QWO
QWO is the first FDA-approved prescribed injectable cellulite treatment. Its active ingredient is CCH, or collagenase clostridium histolyticum, an enzyme that helps release fibrous bands , redistribute fat cells, and stimulate the growth of new collagen. Most injections are inserted in the buttocks or back of the thighs, and results take about three weeks.
Patients say they experience swelling and soreness within the first few days of the injection. On average, these injections cost around $1,800-$3,200.
Velashape
Velashape is a non-invasive treatment for cellulite that can show results in as little as one session. It’s great for common problem areas – legs, thighs, stomach – and can even be used under the chin.
Velashape uses infrared light, radio frequency, and a vacuum to target fat cells and collagen fibers, helping tighten skin structure and reduce volume. The vacuum suction pulls the skin closer to the treatment device, and uses massage to help break up those fibrous bands that cause dimpling.
Most patients need between three and six visits to see maximum results, but keep in mind these are not permanent results. You’ll need to go back yearly in most cases to maintain those results.
Potential side effects of treatment include tingling and minor burning and bruising. Individual sessions are usually around $200-$600 depending on the area(s) being treated.
At-Home Cellulite Treatments
If you aren’t ready for professional treatments, or if your cellulite is mild, there are at-home treatments that are easy, cost efficient, and can help prevent cellulite from developing more.
Muscle Toning and Weight Loss
One of the best ways to combat cellulite is exercise to firm muscles underneath cellulite which will help smooth the appearance of your skin. To target cellulite, try to focus on glute, ab, and leg workouts.
Since cellulite is caused by fat, any type of fat reduction will help with the appearance, whether you decide to eat a healthy diet or exercise. But don’t expect weight loss to take away all of your cellulite. In most cases, some of that fat will inevitably stay near the surface.
Massaging Dimpled Areas
While massaging will not directly get rid of cellulite, it will help improve circulation and lymphatic drainage, both which can temporarily improve the skin’s appearance. For the best results, go with a licensed massage therapist and let them know your targeted goals, but at-home massages can work, too.You can use tools like foam rollers or hand held massagers.
Coffee Scrub
Coffee scrubs are an easy and great at-home cellulite treatment! Coffee is full of antioxidants and exfoliates to get rid of dead skin cells. The recipe for this scrub is very simple – just mix some coffee grounds with olive or coconut oil. Mix it together and you have your scrub! Just rub gently against your clean skin, rinse, and you’re done! It's recommended to use it a few times a week.
Dry Brushing
While dry brushing does wonders for exfoliating your skin and stimulating lymphatic flow, the jury is out on whether it can help with cellulite. While just about every expert agrees dry brushing does nothing for the actual cellulite, the increase in blood and lymph flow may help smooth the appearance of the skin, therefore, potentially making cellulite look less visible.
Cellulite is Treatable!
Remember, cellulite is completely natural to the body, but if you want to make a change and see results, there are plenty of cellulite treatment options out there. And remember, if professional cellulite treatment is not ideal, there are many at-home remedies that are quick and easy!
