To reduce cellulite on thighs, maintaining a moderate weight and using creams can help.
Cellulite is when fat cells push through skin, mostly seen on thighs and buttocks. It’s common in females over 21, rare in males. Age and genetics play a role. Treatments include invasive procedures, noninvasive techniques, products, and lifestyle changes. However, results may be temporary.
This article explores remedies, exercises, and diet’s role in reducing cellulite.
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Why Does Cellulite Develop on the Thighs?
Cellulite develops on thighs due to factors like higher fatty tissue, aging, estrogen, family history, inflammation, weight gain, collagen loss, poor circulation, lymphatic drainage issues, and thinning skin.
While cellulite isn’t harmful, many seek ways to reduce it. Home remedies and exercises are common approaches, but it’s essential to assess their effectiveness.
Home Remedies for Cellulite on Thighs
1. Massage
Regular massage, either done at home or by a professional, can help by improving lymphatic drainage and stretching skin tissue to reduce cellulite dimples. Using massage creams enhances the benefits, but consistency is key for results. You may also try using cavitation machines.
2. Bioactive collagen peptides
A study in 2015 showed improvement in cellulite among women who took bioactive collagen peptides as a daily oral supplement for six months. While promising, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
3. Drink more water
Staying hydrated not only keeps you hydrated but also promotes circulation and lymphatic flow, potentially reducing cellulite appearance.
4. Weight loss
Losing excess body fat through weight loss may naturally lessen the appearance of cellulite. However, cellulite can affect individuals of any weight, so it’s not exclusive to those with overweight or obesity. A balanced diet and regular exercise can aid in weight loss and muscle toning, potentially reducing cellulite.
Exercises for Reducing Thigh Cellulite
Exercise is one of the top ways to lessen the appearance of cellulite. By building more muscle and reducing fat, you can make your skin firmer and smoother.
1. Cardio Workouts
Activities like jogging, walking, swimming, cycling, and dancing can help burn excess fat and minimize cellulite.
2. Strength Training
Focusing on exercises that target your thighs and glutes can also reduce cellulite. Aim for a mix of cardio and strength training sessions each week.
3. Thigh Exercises
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Squats: Stand with feet slightly wider than hip-width, toes turned out. Keep your back straight, lower your hips until thighs are nearly parallel to the floor, then rise back up. Aim for 3 sets of 12-15 squats.
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Lunges: Stand with feet together, step one foot forward and bend both knees until the back knee is almost touching the floor. Push through the front foot to return to standing. Aim for 10-20 reps per leg, 2-4 sets per week. Try variations like reverse lunges for added challenge.
Medications and Creams for Cellulite on Thighs
There are no medications for treating cellulite, but an FDA-approved injectable treatment called QWO is available. It’s safe for thighs too but consult your doctor first. Studies show it’s effective for moderate to severe cellulite on the buttocks and thighs.
Some creams with caffeine can help by dehydrating cells, but they won’t remove cellulite alone. Creams with 0.3% retinol may also reduce cellulite and make skin thicker, but results may take 6 months or longer.
Does the Diet Affect Cellulite?
Research suggests that diet can impact cellulite. High-fat, high-salt, and high-carbohydrate diets may worsen cellulite by increasing inflammation, water retention, and breaking down collagen. These diets can also generate more fat cells under the skin.
On the other hand, certain nutrients like vitamins A, C, and D, zinc, and compounds found in fruits and vegetables may help reduce cellulite. However, more research is needed to confirm the effects of diet on cellulite.