What is cellulite caused by?

Author: Dr. Ruth Ritchie  |  Last update: Thursday, June 5, 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.

What is the main cause of cellulite?

Cellulite forms when fibrous bands connecting your skin to the underlying muscle tighten irregularly. This tightening pulls down on your skin, and the normal layer of fat beneath the skin pushes upward. The result is a puckering appearance to the skin. It's also not known why cellulite is more common in women than men.

Can you get rid of cellulite if you have it?

There's no way to completely eliminate cellulite. Some treatments are available that may reduce its appearance, though.

Is cellulite caused by lack of exercise?

Long hours at a desk without movement can lead to health issues, including cellulite. Try standing part of the day or taking short walks to improve circulation. Lack of Exercise: A mix of strength training and cardio can lower body fat and increase muscle tone, reducing cellulite.

Why do I have cellulite if I'm skinny?

Cellulite (medically termed lipodystrophy) is a disorder of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. It is formed by the improper distribution and excessive accumulation of fat and water under the skin regardless of body weight. This accumulation results in visible thickening, dimpling and nodules on the skin.

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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.

Why do models not have cellulite?

Do models have cellulite? Of course some of them do. You may not see it, because they sometimes use body makeup and often use photoshop and all sorts of retouching apps, but many fashion models do have cellulite and skin laxity.

Does cellulite go away when you get toned?

Losing weight and strengthening the muscles in the legs, buttocks and abdomen may make cellulite less noticeable in those areas, but it won't go away altogether. That is because once a fat cell develops, it is yours for life.

What foods increase cellulite?

Aim to avoid fast foods like burgers, Chinese, McDonalds and Ice Cream. But also be aware of margarine and highly processed fats and oils, BBQ sauces and other condiments high in sugar, unhealthy fats and salt. Say no to fizzy drinks, pasta, chocolate and white bread as these can make cellulite worse.

Do guys think cellulite is unattractive?

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

Does dry brushing help cellulite?

The brushing action is believed to stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage, which may temporarily minimize the dimpled appearance of cellulite. However, experts say it's essential to maintain realistic expectations, as dry brushing alone may not provide a long-term solution for cellulite reduction.

How do celebrities get rid of cellulite?

Celebrities aren't immune to cellulite; they just invest in clinically-proven treatments to help reduce the appearance of their cellulite. There are many treatments on the market for the treatment of cellulite including Avéli, Cellfina, and Cellulaze.

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].

Can cellulite really go away?

You can't get rid of cellulite at home, but there are ways to improve its appearance, including regular exercise and staying hydrated. You can also try using cellulite massagers and dry brushing to keep your skin feeling smooth and healthy.

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.

What is the biggest contributor to cellulite?

Weight gain can make cellulite more noticeable, but some lean people have cellulite, as well. It tends to run in families, so genetics might play the biggest role in whether you develop cellulite. An inactive lifestyle also can increase your chances of having cellulite, as can pregnancy.

What drink gets rid of cellulite?

Here's a great drink to help with getting rid of cellulite. Just add fresh grated ginger, limes, oranges and grapefruit to water and let sit overnight. And yes! You can count it towards your daily water intake!

Does cutting out sugar help cellulite?

The process of glycation occurs when excess sugar binds to collagen in our skin, making it rigid and less elastic. As a result, skin can become more susceptible to foods that cause cellulite. High sugar consumption can also lead to inflammation and fat accumulation, exacerbating the appearance of cellulite.

Does walking reduce cellulite?

Regular aerobic exercise can help people burn calories and, alongside a balanced diet, can aid in weight loss. Maintaining a moderate weight can lessen the appearance of cellulite. Some common aerobic exercises include: walking.

Why don't athletes have cellulite?

This condition is common among many individuals, regardless of their fitness levels. Athletes often have low body fat and high muscle mass. Therefore, they may experience cellulite even if they are in peak physical condition. The effect of cellulite on their performance is negligible.

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.

How does JLO have no cellulite?

Singer Jennifer Lopez has a strong belief in the power of lecithin, a potentially fat-melting fat, so she chooses lecithin-rich foods (especially spinach) for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In addition, the singer often flavours salads with flaxseed, which is considered a weight loss aid.

How did Kardashians get rid of cellulite?

The Kardashian sisters (Khloe, Kim and Kourtney) are reported to rely on the advanced technology of Syneron Candela's VelaShape III treatment to diminish the cottage-cheese-like appearance cellulite can have on their skin.

What ethnicity has the most cellulite?

There is also evidence to support roles for both genetic predisposition and ethnicity: although cellulite is seen in women of all races,4 it tends to be more common in white women.

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