Getting Rid of Cellulite, The Natural Way
If you're a woman, chances are you have some cellulite. In fact, it's estimated up to 90% of women live with dimpled-looking flesh across their thighs, arms, and other regions of their bodies. For an issue as widespread as cellulite, you'd think there would be more information available on how to minimize its appearance or do away with it altogether. Luckily for you, we're going to tackle this subject and find real-life solutions that will address your cellulite entirely naturally.
Just What is Cellulite?
Believe it or not, science has yet to adequately explain the reason behind the phenomenon known as cellulite. An unhealthy lifestyle, hormones, excess weight, and genes are all thought to be possible culprits, but, as of yet, there's no definitive answer. We do know, however, that cellulite is the accumulation of fat cells under the skin. As cells bunch together, they push the skin up, and the connective fibers that allow muscles to stick to the skin are pushed down in turn.
Half of our body fat lives between the skin and muscle, and since women's fat cells and connective fibers sit on top of one another, cellulite is much more visible. Men's fat cells and connective tissues are structured in a crisscross formation that does a better job of disguising cellulite or preventing it entirely.
Unfortunately, the aging process sees women lose about 5 pounds of muscle each decade, which means the cottage cheese look on the skin tends to increase as time goes on.
How to Treat Cellulite Naturally:
All hope isn't lost, however. There are plenty of at-home remedies that help soften the appearance of cellulite and can even manage to make the unwanted dimples go away forever.
Weight Loss:
Now that you know cellulite is essentially the invasion of fat cells between the skin and muscle tissue, the obvious fix is to build and strengthen those muscles through proper diet and exercise. Just remember that aerobic exercise and a lower caloric intake won't cut it on their own when it comes to cellulite. To win the battle against the fat deposits, you should incorporate 20 minutes of strength training two to three times a week. The trick here is to add muscle as you slim down, which will smooth and tighten the skin -- and decrease the appearance of cellulite!
Dry Brushing:
Increasing blood flow and lowering inflammation is always good for the body. One way to do this is through dry brushing the skin with a natural bristle brush. Dry brushing helps break down fat deposits under the skin, smoothing the appearance of cellulite while exfoliating dead skin cells for a healthy glow. Be sure to begin the process at your feet and work your way up. You should only ever brush toward your heart with long sweeps. Be firm, but not too firm, as you don't want to irritate the skin. Not only does this method help with cellulite, but it also supports a healthy lymphatic system, promoting the efficient elimination of toxins. This process ex dry skin on the body and reveals a more vibrant and brighter complexion throughout the body.
Massaging:
You've already learned that cellulite is the deposit of fat cells between the muscle and skin. One way to bring life back to your skin is through external stimulation, otherwise known as massage. Some massage therapists specifically target this region of the skin through a method known as myofascial massage. The action smooths the connective tissue over time, and the cellulite begins to dissipate. Massages can sometimes be costly, so using a deep tissue massage roller is an excellent alternative for people looking to save a little money while decreasing their cellulite.
Use Natural Moisturizers:
Your skin is alive, and to keep it healthy, it needs to be nourished with the right products. Skincare products filled with harsh chemicals and toxins are averse to the appearance of healthy skin. As toxins are absorbed into the dermis, the look and quality of your skin weakens, which means cellulite becomes even more visible. Try to use natural moisturizers that not only penetrate your skin but contain ingredients that trigger healthy responses and reveal bright, vibrant skin. One excellent option is coconut oil.
Pay Attention to Your Hormones:
While the jury is still out on whether it definitively causes cellulite, there's plenty of evidence to suggest a hormone imbalance plays a significant role. Once girls go through puberty, the estrogen moving around in their body activates fluid build-up in fatty tissue. If that weren't enough, the same changes to hormones that cause stretch marks during pregnancy could also increase cellulite. Keeping a healthy weight is an excellent way to combat hormone imbalances but eating foods that regulate hormones also help with cellulite in the long run. Green, leafy vegetables and flax seeds keep the hormones in check, as do herbs and spices and protein.