Suffering from orange-peel syndrome on your bum or thighs? Wondering how to get rid of cellulite? You're not alone! It's estimated that between 80-90% of us will develop cellulite at some point during our lives - and if you're very conscious of your dimples, you'll probably have a bathroom cupboard full of products designed to kick it to the curb.
However, as you may have found yourself, it's not that easy! Cellulite is difficult to shift - mainly because many of us don't actually understand the nature of the condition itself, and all too often believe in 'miracle' cures that have no founding in science at all.
According to Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi, the founder and medical director of The London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic, these are the top 10 most common myths about cellulite - and here, we uncover why they're simply not true...
1. Cellulite is just excess fat
Not really - whilst cellulite is technically a form of fat, it has more to do with the layers and structures of skin than your weight or body fat percentange. Factors such as age and weight gain can affect the appearance of cellulite, but it's certainly not exclusive to bigger women. Which brings us to our next myth...
2. Thin women don't get cellulite
They do! It's difficult to believe in the days of airbrushing, but even the most slender of celebs could be dimpled-of thigh beneath the flattering lights and Photoshop. Body type alone does not determine your likelihood of cellulite...
3. Young women don't get cellulite
... and nor does your age! Cellulite may be more visible on older women, because their skin is naturally less firm, but it can affect people of any age. And yes, we mean people, because...
4. ONLY women get cellulite
... men get cellulite too! Biologically, women are more predisposed to building fat - whilst the female hormone estrogen produces fats, the male hormone testosterone burns it - but although it's more common in ladies, men certainly can and do experience cellulite. They just have stronger skin layers and muscles hiding its presence, lucky things!
5. The clothing you wear can affect your cellulite
Some clothing, such as sportswear or leggings, can make your cellulite more obvious, thanks to its rather unforgiving tight fit. However, no one item of clothing can give you cellulite - it develops because of a combination of factors to do with your fat levels, muscle tone and skin, not the fabric you choose to wear!
6. Tanning reduces cellulite
Tanning provides a temporary solution to the problem of cellulite, as it conceals imperfections and can make your skin look smoother and firmer. But tanning alone cannot permanently reduce the appearence of cellulite, and unless you're using fake tan, it can come with a lot of other health risks, so it's certainly not a solution you should be considering.
7. Miracle creams reduce cellulite
Even the most successful of creams are a) very expensive and b) not as long lasting as you'd expect! Most cellulite creams are enriched with caffeine, which may give you positive short-term results, but, like tanning, they're only a temporary fix, and certainly not a 'cure'.
8. Weight loss reduces cellulite
Because cellulite is not affected by the amount of fat in the body, weight loss is not a guaranteed fix. You may find that losing some weight improves the appearance of your cellulite, but it's important not to put all of your eggs in this basket, because they might not hatch...
9. Liposuction reduces cellulite
If you do decide to opt for a surgical procedure to help alleviate cellulite, liposuction is not the best choice - in fact, it can sometimes worsen the condition, as it can cause uneven distribution of fat under the skin. Any surgical solutions are not to be taken lightly, but if you are determined, less invasive procedures such as Cellulaze are recommended instead.
10. Cardio is the best way to reduce cellulite
Cardio workouts such as running are a great way to burn fat and achieve weight loss, but cardio isn't the best way to target cellulite specifically. Team your cardio with strength and weight training to boost your muscle mass, which will make your skin appear firmer and more taut.
