Cellulite is the subject of many myths and has generated quite a few hoax products. Understanding how cellulite forms and the various means of treating cellulite and reducing its appearance can be complex. Find answers to your most common questions here.

What is cellulite?

Cellulite is the collection of normal fat under the skin. Women’s skin has a series of connections in a rough honey-comb shape. When the fat expands through these tissue connections, it appears lumpy and bumpy. It is the uneven appearance of fat that is called cellulite, but the fat itself is the same kind you would find on your stomach or upper arms.

How can I get rid of cellulite?

The best way to get rid of cellulite is to reduce the overall amount of fat on your body. The less fat you have; the less cellulite you will have. This can be best achieved through diet and exercise with a focus on building strength in your muscles for continued fat burning. There are many other possible solutions that can work to reduce the appearance of cellulite for some time, but there is not much outside of removing fat than can change the way it appears on your backside and thighs. Massage, injections, creams, tanning and liposuction have been shown to be at least somewhat effective in removing cellulite.

Do cellulite creams work?

Cellulite creams are terrific at firming the skin and helping to moisturize and hydrate the affected areas. Firm skin can certainly help to reduce the appearance of cellulite. The creams also help to stimulate blood flow. This is an important component to creating healthy skin free of toxins. A tan – fake or otherwise, can also reduce the appearance of cellulite.

What are the best exercises for cellulite?

The best exercises are the ones that build strength in your key muscle groups. For women these are the thighs and buttocks. Squats and lunges are the most effective exercises to combat cellulite. Be sure to combine these strength exercises with cardiovascular exercises three times a week as well.

Does everyone have cellulite?

Not everyone, but a good 80% of women and girls post-puberty have developed some level of cellulite around their hips and thighs. Genes and body composition have the most influence on the likelihood of you developing cellulite.

Can my underwear affect cellulite?

Actually yes. There have been studies that show the elastic in underwear today that cuts across the buttocks and thighs can contribute to cellulite as the elastic restricts blood flow. Sleeping without underwear or wearing a thong or boy shorts style underwear will give your hips and buttocks better circulation.

Is cellulite dangerous?

Is it dangerous to your health? No. Is it dangerous to your social life? Possibly – but only if your social life revolves around the way you look from behind in a bathing suit.