I’ve had cellulite on my thighs as long as I can remember. It’s very rare you’ll see me with those lumps and bumps on show, even if I’m by the pool, with kaftans and sarongs becoming my firm friends.
On Sunday evening I was taking part in a very gentle workout which involved the not-so-strenuous activity of crossing one leg over the other. It was in this moment that I saw it. Cellulite on my CALVES. Who knew the little blighters could make it that far down your legs?! I’m told that post-pregnancy this new addition to my lower legs should disappear but what about all those flippy little knee-length dresses (or should I say tent-like smocks) I’ve been planning on wearing? I’ve done a bit of reading and the jury’s out as to whether or not I can improve its appearance without medical or chemical intervention, but in the meantime a few things might be worth a try.
Dry Brushing
Brushing skin with a natural fibre (not synthetic) brush has a whole host of benefits, not just helping stimulate the cells and break down the toxins associated with cellulite. Dry brushing also exfoliates, stimulates the lymphatic system and unclogs pores too. Now you have to do this technique properly to get the benefits – start at the soles of the feet and work in swift, long sweeping motions towards the heart, otherwise you’re at risk of varicose veins as well as the cellulite! Shower after you’ve finished the dry brush technique to get rid of the dead skin. The Body Shop do a handheld natural brush which a friend of mine recommends or for harder to reach places you’re probably better off with a long handled brush instead like this .
Coffee
Well we often hear about how caffeine isn’t a great thing to indulge in, so how about rubbing it on your skin instead? To improve circulation and reduce water retention mix 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/2 tbsp of cinnamon, a cup of ground coffee and 1/2 cup of sugar and massage onto the affected area in a circular motion. I’m sure you’ll smell delightful in the process too.
Exercise
I’ve got back into more of an exercise routine over the last few weeks. Typical that one of the things that is meant to help combat cellulite is the thing that led to me detecting the dreaded orange peel in the first place. There’s any amount of exercise pins on Pinterest professing to shed cellulite and toning up those various leg muscles. As with any new routine it’s worth checking in with your doctor before giving anything a whirl.
Massage
A fancy deep-tissue massage can do wonders for your lumps and bumps, albeit temporarily. Surprise, surprise the more you have it done the longer lasting the effects. The massage drains the lymph nodes to leave smoother skin and there are pregnancy-safe options too. Stress and lethargy are apparently another contributing factor to cellulite. I’ve never had a deep tissue massage before but I can’t imagine it’s that relaxing?
Water
Good old H20. Is there anything that bad boy can’t do? Staying hydrated with water and lots of fruits and vegetables ensures the flushing of toxins. At the moment I honestly don’t feel I can fit any more water in but I’ll give it a whirl.
Apparently, 90% of women have cellulite so do you do anything in particular to keep it at bay? Or is it just one of those things we are just stuck with?