Say 'Bye Bye' To Cellulite Without Saying 'Hello' To Surgical Intervention

Okay, so we’re finally reaching the second month of the year.  What seems to have been the longest January in existence has finally ceased to exist—as have many of our New Year’s Resolutions. Women and men from all around declared their goals for 2018 and sealed it with a kiss (or maybe a shot of tequila) on midnight of January 1st. And now, for many, those goals seem to be unreachable.  The most widespread of these New Year’s goals are usually health related, particularly with women. Visions of firmer bodies, flatter stomachs, and less cellulite riddle our fantasies as we imagine ourselves resting on a tropical beach with perfect bodies and piña coladas in our hand. Cellulite, a phenomenon that can affect any woman, can be hard to get rid of and who can afford those outrageous surgical procedures? Now, your cellulite, your body, is perfectly fine—always remember to love every inch of yourself—but for those looking for ways to get a smoother lower half without surgical intervention (because really, who has the time or the money?), here are 12 ways to get that body you’ve been fantasizing about:

1. Weight training and Exercise

I know, I know, I’m rolling my eyes too. But hear me out! Basically, when you gain muscle, the layer of fat won’t be as thick, and your cellulite will improve.  Not to mention, toning tightens your entire body, and who wouldn’t want that? The important part to note here, is that sometimes losing weight can make cellulite worse.  So, if you’re planning on going the exercise route, make sure you’re not just losing weight, you’re also gaining muscle.  Now, this way may take a little more time, which can be extremely annoying if you’re half as impatient as me.  But it is great for your overall health, and, it offers one of the best prognoses for getting rid of cellulite.  Plus, as the saying goes, Rome wasn’t built in a day—and neither will your dream body. If you’re stuck on what exercises to do, head over to our exclusive list of most result driven exercises here.

2. Coffee Scrubs

The caffeine in coffee dilates blood vessels which temporarily tones and tightens tissue, and the antioxidant properties help to release toxins which is great for healthy skin.  It’s also a super easy recipe and takes virtually no time.  Mix ¼ cup of (freshly) ground coffee, and 3 tablespoons of hot water, then add in 2 tablespoons of olive or coconut oil.  Apply the scrub in a circular motion for a few minutes. This method is a great one to try if you want your cellulite reduced and smooth, healthy skin, especially if you don’t mind smelling like a blonde roast.

But, if you don't have the time to whip up your own coffee scrub, there are plenty of great options that will leave you completely wowed:

Frank Body Scrub ($16.95)

Shea Moisture Coconut Oil Coffee Scrub ($14.99)

3. Seaweed Body Wrap

Seaweed is thought to increase blood circulation and lymph flow in addition to improving general skin health, so this mask is perfect for attacking cellulite.  Mix 1 cup of seaweed powder, 3 tablespoons of coconut or olive oil, and warm water into a paste; apply to the target area; wrap some plastic wrap around the area; then, rest someplace warm (sweating is encouraged) for twenty minutes before rinsing off.  I, personally, can’t stop thinking about sushi with this technique, so I’d go grab a roll or two before wrapping myself up like a California roll.

Here are some popular, ready to use seaweed masks:

The Body Shop Seaweed Ionic Clay Mask ($23)

Amber Seaweed Mask ($13)

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

Seriously what can ACV not do? It’s the holy grail of health, containing high content of potassium (and magnesium and calcium and anything else you could want for a healthy body).  There are two ways you can use apple cider vinegar to help with cellulite: internally or externally.  You could mix 2 tablespoons of ACV with warm water, and drink three times a day.  Or you could rub a mix of vinegar and water on the affected area and wrap in plastic wrap and a warm towel for an hour before showering.  Also, be sure your ACV is “with the mother” to obtain all the benefits. If your nose (and taste buds) can handle this, I’d definitely test it out.

5. Dry Brushing

Dry brushing improves circulation and is known to help with cellulite.  Before you hop in the shower, take a natural-bristle body brush and brush your target areas up towards your heart for 5-10 minutes.  What’s great about this is you can also use it with scrubs or oil blends.  I mean, come on, who doesn’t love a good massage?

6. Cellulite Smoothing Creams

Cellulite smoothing creams are ideal when you want an efficient solution to your skin texture, with an easy, and non-messy application. Two top picks for this are Dr. Brandt Cellusculpt, and Clarins Body fit. The results will leave your chin on the floor, and they are great to use as part of your daily moisturizing regimen. 

Another top pick for fat absorbing, and ultimate skin smoothening is Brazilian Bum Bum Cream.

7. Detox Baths

Detox baths are a great option to liberate your skin of toxins that could very well be affecting its texture, hence preventing it from having a luminous and smooth glow. Add a cup of sea salt to your bath and soak for 20 minutes. Repeat this twice weekly for optimal results. I’d also dim the lights and light some candles during this practice.  It may not affect the cellulite, but it’d certainly affect your mood.  

8. Endermologie Treatments

Offered at many spas, endermologie treatments involve mechanical stimulation into fat deposits so that skin can become more elastic. This super relaxing massage treatment lasts for about an hour and is considerably inexpensive.  At most, it’d cost around $200, but you could easily find cheaper treatments costing around $70. This method works best with healthy eating and exercise, so be mindful that this isn’t just a quick fix—you’ll have to put in some work for optimal results.

9. Acoustic Wave Therapy

I saved this one for last because it is extremely expensive.  Acoustic waves are delivered to the target areas which creates heat and stimulates the breakdown of fat tissues.  You’ll want to have at least six sessions to get the best results.  These sessions are spaced out at two sessions a week for three weeks and can cost up to $300 dollars.  Like I said, extremely expensive.  Despite this, many people swear by this treatment, and the internet is riddled with positive reviews about it.  If you can afford this pricey therapy, it’s certainly worth a shot.

Cellulite affects all women of all shapes and sizes, and it’s important to remember that it is not a mar on your beauty—85% of women experience it.  Whether you choose to use these tips or not, always remember to be fabulously, and extraordinarily you, with or without the cellulite!