5 Myths About Cellulite Debunked

Cellulite is one of those topics that is brought up often, but not many truly understand what it is—its causes, its treatments, and its biggest targets can be all a bit of mystery. There are plenty of myths surrounding this topic, so we’re setting the record straight, dispelling some of the biggest myths about cellulite and how to diminish its appearance.

Myth: Cellulite Is Just Excess Fat

While excess fat may make cellulite more apparent, cellulite is generally a result of abnormalities in the dermis and weakened connective tissue between fat and muscles. Usually, there is a layer of tissue between muscle and the skin that keeps fat cells in place and skin looking smooth, this is known as the fascia. When this connective tissue is weakened, fat cells start to show through, leading to the familiar cottage cheese effect. Typically, the most common causes of cellulite are changes in hormones, age, weight change or a lack of muscle toning, stress, and poor circulation. 

Myth: Only Women Get Cellulite 

While 90% of women will develop cellulite at some point in their lives, approximately 10% of men will develop it, too. The reason for why women are more likely to develop cellulite (though not exclusively) is two-fold. First, fat cells tend to sit on women’s hips and thighs, where cellulite is most common, while fat cells gather more around men’s abdomens. Second, the connective tissue that prevents cellulite is naturally weaker in women. The difference being women’s skin connective tissue is in a column structure whereas it is crisscrossed in men. As women age, their bodies will produce less estrogen, a hormone that helps support circulation among other duties. A decline in circulation leads to a decline in collagen production and the connective tissue’s strength. Everyone’s body is unique with different hormone levels, thus why some women are more inclined to show cellulite while others may be less inclined.

Myth: Losing Weight Will Eliminate Cellulite

As mentioned, cellulite isn’t the result of excess fat—it’s caused by weakened connective tissue. While losing excess weight may be helpful to overall health, it’s not the most effective route to battling cellulite. However, healthy weight loss can help reduce the risk of developing loose skin that would emphasize cellulite. A healthy diet also goes a long way, nutrients from healthy foods can help boost overall skin health. Exercise may also help to reduce the appearance of cellulite. When considering this approach, opt for strength training exercises that build muscle and tone the body.

Myth: If Cellulite Is in Your Genes, There’s No Way Around It

It’s true that there is a genetic component to cellulite development, but preventative measures can be taken to reduce your risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, reducing your stress levels, taking care of your skin to promote collagen production, eating healthy, and exercising regularly to build muscle are just a few ways to minimize your risk. 

Myth: Cellulite is Caused by Toxins In Your Body

Some over-the-counter products may claim that clearing out toxins in the body can help address cellulite, but this is not true. As we discussed the causes of cellulite earlier, the condition is not related to toxins but rather the weakened connective tissue in the skin. Temporary solutions such as self-tanning and caffeine rubs can mask the appearance of cellulite for a short period of time, but they do not tackle the root of the problem.

Safe Solutions for Cellulite

While many creams may help in making cellulite look less noticeable, there are other non-invasive cosmetic solutions to help address this concern. Energy-based cellulite reduction treatments with Venus Legacy™ use Multi-Polar Radio Frequency and Pulsed Electro Magnetic Fields to produce heat under the skin’s surface to safely target cellulite. This process helps to naturally increase collagen and elastin fibers which work to keep our skin tight, while also shrinking the volume of fat cells. At the same time, an adjustable pulsed suction known as VariPulse™ gently works to pull the skin upward, allowing the energy to travel deeper and providing a more comfortable and effective treatment. The result is a body that looks slimmer and more sculpted, skin that looks tighter, and cellulite that almost disappears. Venus Legacy™ cellulite treatments are comfortable with no downtime, and quick enough that you can fit do them on your lunch break.

Take The First Step

Now that we’ve busted the common myths associated with cellulite, are you ready to tackle it with a customized treatment plan? Contact a certified treatment provider to learn more about how non-surgical cellulite reduction treatments could be the perfect addition to achieving your body goals. They can help you develop a plan that suits your needs and can help ensure the best results. To get started, simply locate a certified treatment provider near you using the search field below.