What is cellulite—and what causes it?
Cellulite is caused by a buildup of fat just under the skin’s surface, often resulting in an uneven orange peel-like texture on the affected area. The amount of cellulite you have depends on a variety of factors like genetics, age, body fat percentage, intake of food and lifestyle.
Although completely getting rid of cellulite nearly impossible, there are simple ways to assist with the appearance of cellulite. A healthy, balanced diet, tons of water, regular exercise and massage are all changes you can make to your routine to help decrease the appearance of cellulite.
Proven Ways To Get Rid Of Cellulite: What Are Stretch Marks—And What Causes Them?
Stretch marks occur when there’s been a rapid change to your body due to growth or weight gain. It’s most common for pregnant women and girls going through puberty to experience stretch marks.
The look of stretch marks may vary from person to person, but they usually start out as a thin reddish line and fade to a lighter, white colour over time, and may even become shiny.
As with cellulite, stretch marks aren’t likely to go away with natural remedies, however, you can make adjustments to your routine to help minimize the appearance of the scars.
Natural Remedies for Cellulite & Stretch Marks
Supplements
Vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, collagen-enhancing products or herbal supplements such as Pegaga by PurelyB can help to reduce the look of cellulite and stretch marks by improving your skin’s overall health.
In fact, the rich antioxidants found in Pegaga (Gotu Kola) help to enhance skin repair by reducing inflammation and skin irritation, while the essential amino and fatty acids improve circulation, and stimulate cell growth and collagen production needed for skin elasticity and firming to give your skin a smoother, more radiant look.
Dry brushing
Dry brushing increases circulation on the skin, removes dead skin cells allowing for new cells to grow. This supports the natural detoxification process of the skin. It is important to use a plant loofah or ones with natural bristols and massage in circular motions. Dry brush a few times every week for five minutes, best before bath time. Check out a step-by-step how-to guide here.
Instant Coffee
Coffee is known to dehydrate our cells and system, which can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Regular topical application will reduce bumpiness and stimulate blood circulation and promote lymph flow.
Here is how to make a paste: add half a cup of olive oil into two tablespoons of instant coffee and mix well to form a paste. Put the paste into the microwave and heat for twenty seconds. Apply that paste onto your skin for five minutes in a circular motion. Then use cling wrap and bandage the area away for thirty minutes. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Do this twice a week for optimal results.
Sugar scrubs
Similar to dry brushing, sugar scrubs are fantastic for increasing circulation and exfoliating away dead skin cells, revealing newer, fresher skin.
Here’s how to make a sugar scrub: mix 1½ cups of sugar with ¼ cup of coconut oil and 5-10 drops of your favourite essential oil. If you want the scrub a little wetter, add more coconut oil. A little drier? Add more sugar. Apply the scrub in a circular motion and rinse off with warm water.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
While this is not something you can do at home, it’s well worth the effort. Lymphatic drainage massage is a type of massage that helps your system eliminate toxins and excess fluid while stimulating blood flow through the lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that rid the body of toxins, waste and unwanted materials. Assisting the body with such drainage not only improves the appearance of cellulite but also works against the future build-up of new cellulite. Aim for one to two sessions a month for optimal results.
