Shake A LEG

With cellulite seeing thousands of monthly searches, Erin Leybourne asks the experts what really causes it and the best ways to treat it

Cellulite affects a significant number of people, particularly women, but despite the prevalence of the condition, it remains a topic of frustration for many. It is characterised by a dimpled, lumpy appearance of the skin, commonly seen on the thighs, buttocks and abdomen. Although it is not a medical condition, its presence can have a profound impact on self-esteem and body image.

While the body positivity movement has encouraged more people to embrace their cellulite, there has also been a rise in the number of people looking to treat it. A recent study revealed that there is a high volume of Google searches trying to understand the condition. The research by Fat Cow

Skincare found that “How to get rid of cellulite?” had seen 5,400 monthly searches, and “What is cellulite?” saw 3,600. As we approach the summer season, more skin is on show, so cellulite may be at the forefront of clients’ minds but Stacy Cleaver, director of Woodhall Wellbeing in Lincolnshire, believes the interest may also stem from a rising knowledge of the permanence of the concern. “I think people realise how difficult it is to get rid of cellulite and how expensive things like liposuction and cryolipolysis can be – with varying results,” she says.

Why does cellulite occur?

“Cellulite is a common skin condition where fat deposits push through connective tissue beneath the skin, creating a dimpled or lumpy appearance, often on the thighs, buttocks and abdomen,” explains Dr Anna Hemming, owner of Thames Skin Clinic in Twickenham.

“Up to 90% of women experience some form of cellulite, while a much smaller percentage of men are affected.” She says this is due to the differences in fat distribution, connective tissue structure and hormonal factors between the sexes.

Cellulite can develop as a result of a combination of several factors, with hormonal changes, genetics and lifestyle choices potentially playing a role. Dr Hemming says, “Oestrogen plays a significant role in fat storage and collagen breakdown, which can contribute to the formation of cellulite.”

Genetics also play a crucial role in whether someone is likely to develop cellulite. Family history can determine factors such as fat distribution and skin structure, both of which influence the likelihood of developing cellulite.

Additionally, lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise and dehydration can worsen the condition.

As we age, the body’s natural production of collagen, which is responsible for maintaining skin’s elasticity, decreases. This thinning of the skin and loss of elasticity makes the dimpled appearance of cellulite more visible.

Can cellulite be prevented?

While complete prevention may not be possible, Dr Hemming emphasises that lifestyle changes can help manage the severity of cellulite. “Maintaining a healthy diet low in processed foods, staying hydrated and engaging in regular exercise can all help reduce the appearance of cellulite,” she explains. For example, incorporating strength training exercises into a fitness routine could help tone muscles and improve the overall texture of the skin.

“OESTROGEN plays a significant role in fat storage and COLLAGEN BREAKDOWN , which can contribute to the formation OF CELLULITE”

Treatments for cellulite

Although there is no permanent solution to remove cellulite, various treatments can help improve its appearance.

In addition to diet and exercise, circulation plays a critical role in the appearance of cellulite. Dr Hemming suggests techniques such as massage, dry brushing and lymphatic drainage to improve blood flow and reduce fluid retention, which can enhance the skin’s appearance.

Cleaver agrees, and believes that “the most underrated technique is dry body brushing”, noting that body brushing, performed every morning, can “work wonders for a diminished appearance of cellulite”.

Dr Hemming suggests a few other treatments she might use to help clients who are looking to target cellulite:

• Energy-based devices: Technologies such as radiofrequency (RF), laser and ultrasound work to tighten the skin and break down fat, improving the overall texture of the skin.

• Collagen-boosting therapies: Treatments such as microneedling, exosomes and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) stimulate the body’s natural collagen production, promoting skin repair and rejuvenation.

• Topical creams: While results may be temporary, creams containing caffeine, retinol or peptides can enhance skin texture and firmness.

Cleaver also offers a more hands-on approach: “Manual lymphatic drainage or lymphatic machines are great to reduce the appearance of cellulite if used continuously – for example, 12 sessions over four weeks,” she says. Manual lymphatic drainage can help with fluid retention and give a smooth appearance to the skin.

Who is the ideal candidate for cellulite treatments?

Both experts agree that anyone dealing with cellulite can potentially benefit from treatment, but there are certain characteristics that make some individuals more likely to see better results. “The best candidates are the ones that are dedicated to continuous treatment, lifestyle and homecare, as opposed to a specific age group or skin type,” Cleaver says.

Dr Hemming explains that patients who live a healthy lifestyle and maintain a stable weight will often see the best results, and that the severity of the case will also impact the effect of treatment, adding: “Best results occur in patients with localised dimpling rather than severe fibrotic cellulite.”