Cellulite is a natural primary symptom in women, just like facial hair in men. Orange peel occurs not only in overweight people but also in slim-fit women. Externally, it manifests itself in the form of bumps, and skin irregularities, localized on the buttocks and thighs, sometimes on the lower abdomen and arms. The first sagging appears after puberty. We have selected the most popular statements about cellulite and will try to figure out which of them are myths and which are true.
There are many cosmetics on the market that supposedly penetrate the subcutaneous layer and dissolve toxins. However, this is not true. This statement and the effectiveness of these agents are not scientifically proven. You can also take a look at our article on how to get rid of cellulite.
Women are prone to cellulite more than men. It is a fact. According to research, 90% of women have cellulite and only 10% of men. Scientists believe that this is due to the difference in the structure of the connective tissue in the first layer of subcutaneous fat. In women, adipose tissue is located vertically and bulges upward when enlarged. In men, it is cruciform, so the deposits expand in several directions at the same time, which is less noticeable. In addition, men have a thicker layer of dermis on the thighs and buttocks than women.
It's true. As we age, the body produces less estrogen, which keeps blood vessels smooth. Less estrogen impairs blood circulation and collagen production decreases. Also, with age, the old connective tissue is destroyed, and new cells do not have time to form, so flabbiness appears.
Myth. Being overweight really makes cellulite more noticeable: the more fat under the skin, the more it will press on the connective tissue and bulge. But “orange peel” occurs even in people who exercise and eat healthy food.
Fact. Flabbiness occurs when the connective fibers under the skin become weak and lose elasticity. Therefore, strengthening the muscles of the thighs and buttocks will definitely make cellulite less noticeable. Stretching, yoga, as well as strength exercises are perfect for this, which will restore muscle tone and improve blood circulation.
This is another common misconception. Cardio training helps to lose weight, which reduces the dimples and hollows on the buttocks. But this is only a cosmetic effect. To make the legs more elastic, it is necessary to develop muscles. A 2019 study showed that people who did cardio three times a week for 30 minutes for two months lost only two kilograms. At the same time, they did not gain muscle mass and only slightly improved their body composition.
However, when the volunteers split the 30-minute workout into two phases: 15 minutes of aerobic activity and 15 minutes of strength training, they lost four kilograms of fat and gained one kilogram of muscle. And their body quality has improved significantly.
Despite the fact that the labels of expensive creams promise to reduce cellulite, this is not possible.
Research confirms that creams that contain retinol can actually work, but only temporarily. They create a thicker layer of the dermis and mask irregularities. There is also evidence that creams and scrubs based on coffee, ginger, or tea improve blood circulation and prevent the appearance of new dimples. However, this is also a temporary effect.
For several decades, massage has been helping in the fight against cellulite. However, it does not get rid of the “orange peel” and does not give instant results. Massage only helps to achieve a temporary cosmetic effect. Moreover, massage does not give quick results: to notice the difference, it takes from 10 to 15 massage sessions.
It's true. A balanced diet rich in fiber helps reduce inflammation throughout the body and maintains a healthy weight. Try adding cucumbers, radishes, tomatoes, and bell peppers to your diet. Another important factor is the maintenance of water balance. Water maintains the elasticity of the connective tissue and prevents the formation of new tubercles. Studies have shown that water contributes to weight loss, which means that it reduces the pressure of subcutaneous fat on the upper layers of the skin. Also in our article, you can find out how many glasses of water you need to drink per day.
Advertising for compression leggings promises the consumer that training in tight clothing will get rid of cellulite. But this is not true. Tight clothing during workouts reduces the jitter of subcutaneous fat during movement but does not “heal” it. After the person wears loose clothing, the problem returns. At the same time, studies by German scientists in 2020 confirm that wearing tight clothing causes unevenness on the hips and buttocks. Tight elastic bands pull the body, blood circulation is disturbed, oxygen is not supplied, and collagen is not synthesized. As a result, cellulite appears.
Cellulite is completely normal. And the best way to deal with it is acceptance and love for your body. Proper nutrition, an active lifestyle, lack stress, and proper care will help prevent the appearance.
