Women can ‘improve’ appearance of cellulite by rubbing 2 ingredients into the skin

Cellulite is a completely normal and harmless condition that affects the majority of women at some point in their lives. It appears as a dimpled or lumpy texture on the skin, including on the thighs and bottom. While cellulite is not a medical condition and has no impact on your health, many women may be curious about ways to reduce its appearance for aesthetic reasons. 

Fortunately, there are a variety of lifestyle habits, skincare products, and treatments that may help smooth and tone the skin’s appearance. While it’s important to remember that having cellulite is completely natural and nothing to be ashamed of, if you’re looking to reduce its appearance beyond diet and exercise, there are certain skincare options that can help.

“Cellulite is a common concern that affects up to 90% of women and many men, regardless of body shape or weight,” said Dr Usman Qureshi, aesthetic doctor and founder of Luxe Skin by Dr Q.

“It occurs when fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin, leading to a dimpled or uneven appearance, typically on the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen.”

He suggests two main skincare ingredients that can help: retinol and caffeine. 

“There’s no permanent cure, but several effective treatments can improve its appearance,” says Dr Qureshi. “Topical creams with caffeine or retinol may offer temporary tightening effects, but in-clinic procedures yield more significant results.”

There are advanced options such as radiofrequency microneedling, acoustic wave therapy, and injectable treatments like collagen-stimulating fillers.

“These treatments work by boosting collagen, improving skin texture, and breaking down fibrous bands under the skin that cause the dimpling,” he explains.

“While results vary, a combination approach tailored to each patient’s skin type and severity of cellulite often delivers the best outcome,” Dr Qureshi advises. “It’s important to set realistic expectations — cellulite can be improved, but not completely eliminated.”

How to reduce appearance of cellulite at home

Dry Brushing

This is a massage technique using a brush with stiffer bristles over dry skin. It can help with exfolitaion, lymphatic drainage and circulation. It can help help plump the skin’s surface, reducing the appearance of cellulite when done consistently.

Skincare

Caffeine-based creams can temporarily tighten skin and improve blood flow, making cellulite less noticeable. Retinol creams can help thicken the skin over time, which may reduce the visibility of dimples.

Massage

Use hands, a massage roller, or silicone cupping tools with body oil or lotion to massage cellulite-prone areas for 10 to 15 minutes daily. This can recuce fluid build up in your body.

Foam rolling

Foam rolling can help release fascia tension, improve circulation, and break up fluid buildup around fat cells. Use a foam roller daily on thighs, hips, and buttocks for 10 to 15 minutes.