Although cellulite has been labeled by the beauty industry as a “problem” it’s a natural part of the human body and affects 80% to 90% of women. That being said, you’re not alone if you’re not over the moon about the look of cellulite. Since there’s so much information out there about this skin condition, it’s important to know what’s real and what’s not. Here are 10 myths and facts about cellulite.
10 Myths and Facts About Cellulite
1. Fact: Women Get More Cellulite Than Men
Women tend to carry more fat around their hips and thighs and also have less supportive connective tissue to keep it all in place. The structure of collagen (the main protein of connective tissue) in women has the appearance of a picket fence, whereas in men it looks like a cross-linked fence. A cross-linked structure is stronger and will hold in fat better. Estrogen also makes fat, whereas testosterone breaks down fat, making it more likely for a woman’s body to develop cellulite.
2. Myth: Cellulite is Excess Fat
The dimpling that comes with cellulite isn’t caused by excess fat. Everyone has a layer of subcutaneous fat under their skin, which protects and insulates your body. Dimpling occurs when the connective tissue that attaches your skin to your muscle stretches, breaks down, or pulls too tight. The change in the structure of the connective tissue allows the subcutaneous fat to bulge out, creating lumps and dimples in the skin.
3. Fact: Cellulite is Genetic
If your mother and grandmother have cellulite, it’s more likely that you’ll develop cellulite too. Certain genes that are passed down may predispose an individual to cellulite. There’s even a genetic test you can do that can tell you whether you have a gene variant that makes you more susceptible to cellulite. It has an extremely high price tag, though, so we don’t think it’s necessary. It’s important to note that genetics seem to be a small piece of the puzzle- diet and exercise also play a role.
4. Fact: Cellulite Is More Noticeable As You Age
As women age, less estrogen is produced- a hormone that keeps blood vessels flowing smoothly. This can result in a decrease in circulation, which can affect the production of new collagen as well as the breakdown of old collagen. The less collagen in your skin, the less elasticity it has, which can make cellulite more apparent. Fat cells also enlarge as estrogen levels fall.
5. Myth: Only People Who Are Overweight Have Cellulite
People of any weight can get cellulite as it has to do with a combination of factors, from diet to genes, stress, and hormones. However, being overweight does make cellulite more noticeable. The more fat you have underneath your skin, the more likely it is to put stress on your connective tissue and start to bulge out.
6. Myth: Cellulite is Caused By Toxins
While some cellulite-busting skincare products claim to get rid of the toxins under your skin, cellulite is not caused by toxins. Cellulite occurs when underlying fat deposits push through layers of collagen fibres, or connective tissue, under the skin. Connective tissue can be weakened by hormones, lack of exercise and muscle tone, excess fat, and poor circulation.
7. Fact: Your Diet Influences Cellulite
People who eat a high-calorie diet of too much fat, refined carbs, preservatives, and salt are more likely to have greater amounts of cellulite. It’s super important to eat a healthy, well balanced diet for your overall health, and your skin will also benefit. Excessive amounts of carbs can increase your insulin levels, promoting an increase in total body fat. A diet high in salt can increase fluid retention, making cellulite appear worse. Prioritize fresh, whole foods and fibre- and protein-rich foods. Foods with a high water content such as watermelon, cucumbers, radishes, tomatoes, and bell pepper are also beneficial!
8. Fact: Exercise Reduces The Appearance of Cellulite
While exercise can’t completely eliminate cellulite, it can reduce its appearance. Exercise will make the muscles under your cellulite stronger and reduce body fat. Firming and toning your muscles will in turn tighten the skin, which can lessen cellulite’s appearance. Strength training is great as it builds muscle and boosts circulation, and yoga routines that target the butt and thighs are also helpful.
9. Myth: Skin Firming Creams Can Cure Cellulite
Although you may notice some short term improvement, skin-firming creams won’t cure your cellulite. Unfortunately, even if you apply these creams every day, you won’t alter the fat cells beneath the skin. Some creams can help tighten the skin, which can give your skin a more youthful appearance, but it’s not the same thing. Products with retinol can provide some temporary effects by thickening the skin, which can help camouflage the bumps.
10. Fact: Smoking Can Worsen the Appearance of Cellulite
Smoking is horrible for your health and affects your skin in a number of ways. It’s been shown to reduce blood vessel flow and to weaken the formation of collagen. This allows your connective tissue to become stretched and damaged more easily and for underlying fat to show through. Smoking can also skyrocket signs of premature aging, including fine lines and wrinkles, skin thinning/sagging, and age spots.
It’s normal to have cellulite and it’s important to know what’s myth and what’s fact. We hope this post helped to clear things up!
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