What causes cellulite on the thighs?

Author: Adrienne Torp  |  Last update: Thursday, November 13, 2025

As fat cells accumulate, they push up against the skin, while the long, tough cords pull down. This creates an uneven surface or dimpling. In addition, hormonal factors play a large role in the development of cellulite, and genetics determine skin structure, skin texture and body type.

Why do I suddenly have cellulite on my thighs?

Why Do We Get “Cottage Cheese” or “Orange Peel” Thighs? There's no single answer. Cellulite can be caused by hormonal changes, genetics, weight gain, and more. Here's the kicker: even active, healthy women with good diets still experience cellulite.

What foods cause cellulite on the thighs?

Fried and processed foods are often loaded with unhealthy fats which can contribute to cellulite formation. It's essential to understand that fat isn't necessarily the enemy; in fact, good fats like those from avocados, nuts, and olive oil can benefit our skin and overall health.

Are you unhealthy if you have cellulite?

Cellulite is not harmful to your health. Most health care providers consider cellulite a normal condition for many women and some men. Many people seek treatment for cellulite because they are bothered by how it looks. Talk to your provider about treatment options.

What deficiency causes cellulite?

Estrogen is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and connective tissue health. A deficiency can weaken the connective tissue structures, allowing any remaining fat to push through and create the appearance of cellulite [45].

Causes of Cellulite - Dr. K C Nischal

What is the biggest cause of cellulite?

As fat cells accumulate, they push up against the skin, while the long, tough cords pull down. This creates an uneven surface or dimpling. In addition, hormonal factors play a large role in the development of cellulite, and genetics determine skin structure, skin texture and body type.

Can cellulite go away?

You can't get rid of cellulite. But, it's not harmful to your overall health. You can reduce the appearance of cellulite through a combination of exercise, diet and treatments.

What hormone causes inner thigh fat?

Estrogen is one of the leading hormonal causes of thigh fat because it causes increased levels of fat cells which cause fat deposits to form in and around the thighs. Age can also be a contributing factor because aging results in a slower metabolism, which makes it more difficult to eliminate fat.

Does cutting out sugar help cellulite?

While there is no known cure to completely banish cellulite, there are ways to help minimize its appearance. Sugar gets stored in fat cells and causes them to expand, and sodium causes fluid retention, both of which can make cellulite appear worse.

What hormone deficiency causes cellulite?

The effects of estrogen deficiency on the skin connective tissue include a decreased production and topical content of both type I and III collagen and elastin fibers, which also contributes to cellulite.

How to get rid of cellulite in 2 weeks?

That said, there are a few things you can do to help shrink cellulite in 2 weeks:
  1. Dry brush your skin daily. ...
  2. Exercise regularly. ...
  3. Eat a healthy diet. ...
  4. Drink plenty of water. ...
  5. Massage the affected area. ...
  6. Apply a topical cream or lotion.

Does going off the pill reduce cellulite?

In summary. Estrogenic medication, such as “the pill” in women and transition hormone therapy in male-to-female transsexuals, causes cellulite, if combined with excess calories, sugar intake, lack of exercise etc, at a much higher rate than on people who are not on that medication.

Will cellulite go away if I tone my legs?

According to the Mayo Clinic, losing weight and strengthening the muscles in the legs, buttocks, and abdomen might help reduce cellulite's appearance in those areas. However, it's important to note that cellulite won't disappear altogether; once a fat cell develops, it stays with you for life.

What really works for cellulite?

Some studies indicate that a combination of treatments may yield the most satisfying results.
  • Laser and radiofrequency treatments. Various wounding (ablative) laser treatments are available to treat cellulite. ...
  • Acoustic wave therapy. ...
  • Massage. ...
  • Surgery.

Does walking reduce thigh fat?

Does walking reduce inner thigh fat? Walking is a great form of cardiovascular exercise that can help burn calories and reduce overall body fat, including inner thigh fat. However, it is important to note that walking alone may not be enough to target inner thigh fat specifically.

What does stage 1 lipedema look like?

Lipedema stages include: Stage 1: Your skin looks normal, but you can feel something like pebbles under your skin. You can have pain and bruising at this stage. Stage 2: Your skin surface is uneven and may have dimpling that looks like quilted stitching, a walnut shell or cottage cheese.

What is the best exercise to tighten inner thighs?

The best inner thigh exercises include hip bridges, leg lifts, and side planks. If your inner thighs never look sculpted, no matter how hard you work, you might wonder how to tone them fast. A common mistake is over-relying on lunges and squats.

Do guys think cellulite is unattractive?

Most men don't mind some cellulite and most men usually not notice it either.

Why is my cellulite getting worse as I lose weight?

Too much sugar expands fat cells because it gets deposited there. Too much salt can make the appearance of cellulite worse because it causes you to retain fluids. Fad diets and quick weight loss can make your skin looser and actually make cellulite appear — even though you've lost body fat.

Can you break up cellulite?

There's no way to completely eliminate cellulite. Some treatments are available that may reduce its appearance, though. To achieve the best results, work with a reputable health care provider to decide which therapies may be right for you.

Does low estrogen cause cellulite?

The effects of estrogen deficiency on the skin connective tissue include a decreased production and topical content of both type I and III collagen and elastin fibers, which also contributes to cellulite.

What age does cellulite start?

There is no particular age of onset for cellulite. It can occur at any age postpuberty, although it mostly appears between the ages of 20 and 30.

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