I only buy a bathing suit every two years. You know why? The horror of looking at myself in the mirror with the dazzling lights I overheard, in a tiny bathing suit, and worrying about my thighs and butt. Cellulite is a figure problem for most women, whether they are larger or smaller. It can adhere to your thighs, hips, buttocks, and / or abdomen. There are ways to remove those lumps and make your body more streamlined, and I’m here to help!

First, what exactly is cellulite? Fat trapped just under the skin, trapped between the fibrous tissues that anchor the skin to the deeper muscles. Fat cells expand and push around these fibrous cables and create that “orange peel” effect. Women are much more susceptible than men to cellulite due to the higher percentage of fat we have in our body and where we store it. Also, women’s skin tends to be thinner than men’s; therefore, cellulite appears more. So what can be done?

One of the most effective (and most expensive) ways is Candle. It is relatively new and, in fact, has scientific studies to back it up. It costs approximately $ 1,000 to $ 2,000 for four to six treatments, and follow-up treatments are recommended for maintenance. The process uses heat, ultrasound and massage at the same time to make the cellulite subdue. I tried this (most places that offer it will let you taste what it is like) and it is uncomfortable. However, for severe cellulite, it really is the best solution. But, since most of us don’t want to spend THAT much money, I’ll move on to cheaper, easier, and certainly more convenient solutions.

1. Dry brushing with a natural bristle brush helps circulation and removes dead skin. This is good for lymphatic drainage and skin texture.

2. Oil massage also improves circulation and skin texture.

3. Exercise: aerobic exercise to reduce fat and working with weights to help tone muscles.

4. Cut down on dietary fat – You should consume about 25% of your calories from fat (try to make sure it’s things like olive oil and nuts).

5. Self-tanner: having a little color will help to hide cellulite. Helps to even out skin tone and reduces the shadow effect of cellulite.

6. Gotu Kola: a natural herb that is said to help reduce cellulite in 80% of women (reduce, not eliminate). Take 30mg three times a day as directed for cellulite. However, I am not a doctor, check with them first, especially if you have any medical problems.

7. Cellulite Massage Stockings – I’ll be honest, I haven’t tried them. They are said to be super massagers and “stimulate skin microcirculation, facilitate water retention and reduce cellulite.” It actually makes some sense to me, so I think it might be worth a try if you have severe cellulite or have money.

8. Proper Clothing – Okay, this isn’t exactly a cure, but DO NOT wear clothing that is too tight to accentuate your orange butt! I guess from my medical / nursing point of view, it’s not good for circulation either. However, it is not as attractive as finding clothes that fit well.

9. Drink lots of water. A good healthy system needs to be rinsed, circulated, and hydrated.

What is not working?

1. Most lotions and creams: may help temporarily, but it will be just that: temporary. If it makes you feel good, or if it helps you massage your thighs (for circulation), go for it! Just don’t spend a lot of money.

2. Wraps. They work great for a few hours, but as soon as the water circulates through your body again, the inches return. Again, if you like the feel, go for it. But it is expensive and temporary.

3. Liposuction for cellulite: in general, and I mean generally, this will not eliminate it. Some surgeons are coming up with new ways to reduce cellulite with lipo. Again, this is an expensive solution, if it works at all.

My last comment for all of you is this; 90% of women have some cellulite. Yes, we hate it, but don’t feel lonely or like you have a horrible body because of it. Spend a little more time working on it and your “orange bottom” will be as soft as a “baby bottom.”