Cellulite seems to be one of those problems that plagues many women. We all seem to have some, or will have some at one point or another, so lets talk about it. Magazines like this one pop up everywhere, its not pretty. Many sources have concluded the dimpled appearance of cellulite occurs due to problems or an imbalance of the connective tissue and fat in a person’s body. It is speculated that hormones, diet, lifestyle and genetics all play a role but there are no sureties. While those who are overweight tend to have a higher chance of getting cellulite, many thin women complain of it as well.
Here are 4 natural remedies we have tried or have done research on from trusted sources. They should all help balance the connective tissue/fat in the body and address the many possible causes.
Dry Brushing
Dry brushing is as an all-natural and safe remedy for cellulite. In addition to potentially ridding the area of cellulite, there are many health benefits associated with this practice.This is one remedy that there may not be any scientific evidence that it works but that there is a lot of anecdotal support for. This can include promotion of circulation. It also has exfoliating benefits for the skin, by sloughing off dead skin cells to enhance the overall appearance. Not to mention it feels great and helps stimulate blood and lymph flow in the body.
Dry skin brushing effectively opens up the pores on your skin. This is something you can and should be doing daily, even twice a day. Your skin should be dry, so the ideal time is in the shower before you turn on the water. Just a reminder, don’t get the brush wet.
You should only brush towards the heart. Making long sweeps, avoid back and forth, scrubbing and circular motions. Start at your feet, moving up the legs on both sides, then work from the arms toward your chest. On your stomach, direct the brush counterclockwise. And, don’t brush too hard: Skin should be stimulated and invigorated but not irritated or red.
Type of brush: The bristles should be natural, not synthetic, and preferably vegetable-derived. The bristles themselves should be somewhat stiff, though not too hard. Look for one that has an attachable handle for hard-to-reach spots, if necessary.
Coffee Scrub
Coffee scrubs can be beneficial in reducing cellulite as well. The massage and exfoliation benefits skin by stimulating blood/lymph flow and the caffeine in the coffee has a tightening effect. The internet has many recipes for coffee scrubs and wraps working for reducing cellulite and loose skin, and like the other remedies, it is at least worth a try.
You will need:
1/4 cup coffee grounds
3 tablespoons sugar or brown sugar
2-3 Tablespoons of melted coconut oil
Combine the ingredients to create a paste-like consistency (note that it will harden if cooled if you are using unrefined coconut oil). Store in a glass jar. Massage in to skin for several minutes using firm pressure and wash as usual. Use 2-3 times a week. Results should be visible within a couple of weeks.
Omega-3s
There is some evidence that consuming enough Omega-3 fatty acids and fat soluble vitamins will help reduce cellulite over time. Another theory is that consumption of trans-fats and the “wrong” kind of fats leads to an imbalance of fatty acids that smooth skin and tissue. Either way, Omega-3s and fat soluble vitamins are important for many other functions in the body, so it won’t hurt to try it!
Balance Hormones
It seems that many sources agree that hormones play a huge role in cellulite formation this is one reason why women typically get it more often then men. Working toward proper hormone balance can help reduce cellulite. Even if it doesn’t get rid of cellulite, balancing hormones helps in so many other ways that it is worth working on!