Cellulite is just about unavoidable, most people have a bit here and there by adulthood, but even so it's not a welcome addition to the thighs, stomach, or arm area for most of us.
In case you were wondering, cellulite is a dimply or lumpy appearance of the skin caused by fat deposits pushing through connective tissue. Cellulite is more common in women, but men can also experience this "cottage cheese" affect. The good news is, there are steps you can take to lessen the appearance of cellulite or prevent it if you're one of the few it hasn't happened to yet.
Unless you're blessed with supermodel genes, chances are good you'll face cellulite at some point in your life. In fact, this is one thing even supermodels won't escape, it doesn't matter what you weigh-- you can still find cellulite dimpling on your thighs. Statistically between 80 and 90 percent of women will store some excess fat that will develop into cellulite, so if you believe it's better to be safe than sorry here are some tips on preventing cellulite or crushing it in its tracks.
- Dry brushing
- This is one of the easiest ways to change the appearance of your skin. Get your hands on a large bristle brush, easy to find at your local Duane Reade, and before you shower run the brush up your legs, arms, stomach, and chest. It might sound too simple to be effective, but stick with it and you'll be enjoying smoother, softer skin.
- Exercise
- While it isn't possible to lose weight in any focused areas, it is true that you can target trouble areas with strength training exercises to firm your muscles and lessen the appearance of cellulite. Since cellulite is fatty deposits pushing up in between connective tissue some cardio and overall weight loss won't hurt, but focusing your efforts on toning and firming moves will make a difference in decreasing the appearance of cellulite.
- Check your diet
- The Standard American Diet can leave somewhat to be desired, so if you find yourself falling short of your fitness goals it can be a good time to re-evaluate your daily food intake. Try to find a combination of whole foods you enjoy and that are fueling and filling. If you can make room for water heavy foods (cucumbers, etc.) these will help keep you full and hydrated- creating stronger connective tissue that is harder for fat deposits to make their way past.
- SculpSure
- If you've already given these lifestyle changes a try and are still not satisfied with the results then it might be time to let science and medical advances lend a hand. SculpSure was just approved by the FDA for tightening and toning the legs and buttocks by destroying deep layers of fat. It might be time to add this awesome bit of technology to your arsenal of cellulite fighting tools.