Summer is here and cellulite is something we can do without….particularly in this season. So first off we know what it looks like but what IS cellulite really?
Cellulite is in essence sub-dermal fat stores which give skin a ‘cottage cheese’ texture. It’s usually due to a number of factors. Some people have a genetic predisposition for cellulite, others may have hormonal issues at work. Poor diet, smoking, frequent and extended periods of sitting or standing in one place, and poor circulation are also common contributors.
There are lots of pricey options to fix the situation, but how about some cheap, natural ideas? Good news. They exist. Let’s take a look:
1. DRY BRUSH
Try dry brushing to eliminate cellulite. This method is considered by many to be the most effective natural remedy for this purpose. In some cases, women saw a significant reduction in the appearance of cellulite after only a month. Dry brushing works by opening up pores and removing dead skin, thus helping to cleanse the body by allowing toxins to exit more freely. This method also improves circulation and stimulates collagen production, leading to stronger and smoother skin.
Basic guidelines for dry brushing are as follows:
-Use natural semi-firm bristled brushes (can be found at any department store or drugstore)
-Always brush toward the heart. On the stomach, brush counter-clockwise.
-Make your strokes firm enough to stimulate the skin, but not so hard as to cause irritation. HOW TO VIDEO BELOW:
2. DRINK WATER
It’s a fact that if you aren’t giving it enough water to work with, your body won’t be able to effectively break down cellulite. For this reason alone, keeping yourself hydrated is so important. As if that weren’t enough, remember that there could potentially be a large amount of toxins stowed away in your fat cells. When cellulite is broken down, any chemical contaminants that are stored there will be released back into your body. In order to flush these toxins out, it is absolutely critical to drink plenty of water.
3. COCONUT OIL
The health benefits of coconut oil are many, including the abilities to increase metabolism, reduce hunger, and improve skin elasticity. Use as a moisturizer after dry brushing for an immediate boost to skin health. Also, try adding a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil per day to your diet to help you burn fat and improve your overall health.
4. COFFEE SCRUB
Many women have reported success with a simple mix of coffee grounds and warm water. Use this scrub for ten minutes twice per week on areas where cellulite reduction is desired. You should start to see some great results after four weeks of regular treatment.
5. JUNIPER/ROSEMARY OIL
The essential oils of juniper and rosemary both have a positive effect on circulation and can help the body to flush out toxins from fat and muscle tissue. To create a detoxifying moisturizer, mix about 30 drops of rosemary oil and 30 drops of juniper oil with 100 ml of jojoba oil. Apply daily after derma-rolling or post-bath to help detoxify and strengthen skin. Using this method, you may see noticeable results as fast as one week!
6. CIRCULATION
Proper circulation helps to prevent and eliminate cellulite. Avoid wearing clothes with tight elastic bands that may restrict blood flow to hips, thighs, and other areas prone to cellulite. Also, if you experience a lot of soreness during physical activities, tight muscles may also be restricting blood flow. Perform stretching exercises such as yoga or Tai Chito loosen up cramped tissues and improve your circulation.
7. SELF MASSAGE
Daily self-massage is an excellent cure for cellulite. By stimulating blood flow and breaking up toxins stored in cellulite, massage can help the body to metabolize fat cells, reducing their size and making them less noticeable. Perform self-massage while taking a warm bath several times each week. Alternately, you can take this remedy a step further with myofascial massage using a foam roller. This technique helps to smooth skin by releasing the fascia from other tissues.
8. DIET
You may need to change up your eating habits to help your body combat cellulite. Consume less simple sugars and carbohydrates and include more fiber in your diet to improve digestive health. Replace unsaturated fats like vegetable oil with healthy Omega-3 fats such as olive, almond, or avocado oil. Trade out sources of trans-fat like margarine for lauric acid-rich coconut oil to boost skin health. Avoid excessive sodium consumption (the recommended daily intake is 2300 mg or less.) Finally, eat more fresh fruits and veggies with high water content such as melons, cucumbers, and dark leafy greens to increase skin elasticity and detoxify your body.
NOTE: All the above are suggestions only. Do your own homework and find out what works for you!
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