6 Home Remedies For Cellulite In Thighs

Cellulite, medically known as gynoid lipodystrophy, refers to the formation of dimples on the skin surface due to the presence of a large number of enlarged fat cells under the skin. These fat cells accumulate in bunches as the fibrous bands, or septae, pull the skin surface down.

Cellulite commonly occurs in the legs, stomach, buttocks, and thighs. They may form due to different reasons, including genetics, thinning of outer skin layers, hormonal disbalance, certain water-retaining medications, tissue inflammation, lymphatic system problems, smoking, alcohol consumption, use of tight clothes, and even stress.

Cellulite is a fairly common condition affecting around 85% of women. It rarely develops in males. It is suggested to get timely treatment for cellulite as it can worsen with age.

# Massage for lymphatic drainage

The lymphatic system is responsible for the drainage of waste from the body. If your lymphatic system is inactive, lymphatic waste may accumulate and cause metabolic disorders, ultimately leading to cellulite formation. Therefore, lymphatic drainage can help manage cellulite.

It is believed that massaging your skin can help with lymphatic drainage. It stretches the underlying tissue and boosts blood circulation at the same time.

You can consult an expert to learn how to perform manual lymphatic drainage, or you can use devices such as mechanical massagers, dry brushes, and foam rollers for the same.

- Massaging your skin using lotions or ointments made for cellulite treatment. It is believed that these products can contribute to the improvement of the condition, but their effects need to be verified through large-scale human trials.

# Take collagen supplements

Cellulite formation disrupts the extracellular matrix, thereby affecting the skin dermis and subcutaneous connective tissue.

A study found that using collagen supplements for 6 months lowered cellulite when compared to a placebo.

How to use: Consult your doctor on the use of collagen supplements for cellulite treatment and its appropriate dosage.

# Use gotu kola

Centella asiatica, commonly known as gotu kola, is a popular dermatological agent. Gotu kola extracts improve metabolism in connective tissues, stimulate lymphatic drainage, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, and boost microcirculation, thus contributing to cellulite treatment.

However, these effects of gotu kola are supported only by a few clinical studies that lacked a control group. Further well-structured studies are required to establish the efficacy of gotu kola.

How to use: Gotu kola is available as topical ointments and oral supplements.

# Apply a coffee scrub

The use of a coffee scrub is a commonly suggested treatment for cellulite reduction. Caffeine is thought to work by dilating the blood vessels, thus boosting blood circulation. This, in turn, can help burn the excess fat.

Moreover, scrubbing with coffee removes dead skin cells, and the massaging action can help in draining collected fluid. However, there is no scientific evidence to the use of coffee for vasodilation or lipolysis and, thus, for the treatment of cellulite.

- Mix fresh coffee grounds with hot water. Add olive or coconut oil to it if you have dry skin. Apply the paste to the affected areas.
- Massage gently for a few minutes. You can also use a dry brush for the massage for improved efficacy.
- Rinse your skin and pat it dry.

# Use other anecdotal remedies

Besides the above-mentioned home remedies, you can also try the use of zeolite, coconut oil massage, cayenne pepper consumption, apple cider vinegar massage, application of a green clay exfoliating mask, and juniper oil massage to improve cellulite.

These remedies may work by stimulating blood flow, draining fluids, or burning fat. However, these remedies, although popular on the Internet, are not backed by any scientific evidence and are largely based on anecdotal claims.

# Exercise regularly

Cellulite formation commonly occurs due to excessive fat or adipose tissue in the body. As a result, overweight or obese individuals are at a higher risk of developing cellulite.

Therefore, it is suggested to exercise daily for around 30 minutes to maintain a healthy body weight. You must include both cardio and strength training exercises in your exercise regimen.

Performing only cardio can cause irregular fat loss without skin toning. This loosens your skin and increases cellulite appearance.

- Cardio: Bicycling, jogging, brisk walking, running, dancing, and skipping
- Strength training: Side lunges, pistol squat, donkey kick, split squat, glute bridge, stability ball hammer string curl, and lateral lunges.