Do You Really Know What Causes Cellulite?
You’re not alone if you’re struggling to banish annoying cellulite.
We’re all too aware of the effects of cellulite.
It’s one of the biggest [pool] party poopers in existence.
And it’s the source of angst, apprehension, and apparel changes out the wazoo.
But, do you know what causes cellulite in the first place?
When it comes to treating your cellulite the more you know the better.
But to start, you need to know the basics of what cellulite actually is.
Bounce over to our post on, “What Is Cellulite?” to get a quick and painless run down on all the necessities you need to start your anti-cellulite journey. And make sure you don’t have any issues with cellulitis, which is something different altogether.
Now that you’re caught up, let’s dive into what causes cellulite.
We’re much better equipped to tackle and prevent cellulite if we know what causes it.
Unfortunately, cellulite is a sneaky little thing that isn’t limited to just one source.
Cellulite creeps up in many different ways and at the most inconvenient times.
Let’s find out why…
The 10 Biggest Culprits of What Causes Cellulite
Here are the main causes of cellulite…
#1 Weakened Collagen Bands
There’s a normal layer of fat underneath everyone’s skin.
This layer protects and insulates and gives the skin a smooth appearance.
Collagen bands, or connective tissue, hold the fat in place between underlying muscle and outer layers of skin.
When the collagen bands weaken, they aren’t able to contain the fat.
Fat cells press into the bands and upper layers of skin.
This causes the skin to become rippled and uneven, aka visible cellulite.
Poor circulation, inadequate physical activity, hormones, lack of muscle tone, and excess body fat weaken our skin structure.
#2 Weight Gain
Cellulite can occur in all shapes and sizes, so it’s not 100% dependent on weight.
However, an increase in weight also leads to enlarged fat cells.
The larger the fat cells, the harder and more strained collagen bands become to keep the cells in place.
There’s a greater chance of cellulite cropping up in this case.
If you already have cellulite, weight gain can make it become more noticeable.
#3 Hormones
Various hormones play a role in cellulite development.
For example, estrogen increases fat accumulation, which can lead to cellulite.
A decrease in estrogen isn’t good, either.
Estrogen aids in blood circulation, which delivers nutrients to connective tissues and promotes the production of collagen.
We naturally have a decline in estrogen as we age that makes us more susceptible to acquiring unsightly cellulite.
Pregnancy, birth control pills, soy, and meat treated with growth hormones may also throw off our natural hormone levels.
#4 Mama-Mia
Genetics affect the likelihood of getting cellulite or not.
If your mother and grandmother had cellulite, your chances of experiencing it are greater.
Everyone has subcutaneous fat, the specific fat that’s susceptible to causing cellulite.
But some people have more than others.
Your individual genes decide the number of fat cells you have.
#5 Under Pressure
Those who are constantly exposed to elevated levels of stress are more prone to developing cellulite.
Stress hormones such as cortisol are released and utilized in the body’s fight or flight response.
High levels of cortisol can lead to increased fat storage and in turn potential cellulite.
It’s important to properly manage stress.
WebMD has some great suggestions for zapping stress in 15 minutes or less.
#6 Lack of Physical Activity
Sitting is deemed the new smoking.
The majority of jobs now have us sitting at a desk for 8 or 9 hours per day.
And most likely we come home and sit some more (on the couch, at the computer, while eating dinner).
Our common stagnant lifestyles leave us with a severe lack of physical activity throughout the day.
It leads to detrimental effects on the body such as impeding blood circulation, lowering metabolism, decreasing muscle tone, and increasing body fat.
All of which increase your chances of a dimpled derrière.
#7 Junk Food Diet
A diet full of junk leads to extra junk in the trunk, and not the cute kind.
Fast food and processed food are lacking major vitamins, minerals, and overall nutrients needed for a healthy body.
Junk food hinders blood flow, metabolism, and collagen production.
This causes fat cells to grow while hindering the natural elasticity of the skin.
Eat a diet full of fresh, whole foods like fruits, veggies, nuts, legumes, lean meat, low-fat dairy, and whole grains.
Smoothies and juicing are also great for busting stubborn cellulite.
#8 Father Time
Aging is inevitable and brings about changes in the body.
Women produce less estrogen as they get older.
This may lead to poorer circulation, diminished collagen production, and weakened connective tissue.
Fat cells also have a tendency to become larger and skin loses its natural elasticity.
Metabolism and lymphatic drainage slows down with age.
A great way to combat this is to start dry skin brushing, which stimulates your lymphatic system and circulation.
Also, if you maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes plenty of exercise, nutritious foods, and stress management, you can slow down this aging process.
#9 Unmentionables
Your cute little panties may be causing cellulite.
Underwear with a tight elastic waistband may be cutting off or reducing blood flow to areas below your waist.
When permissible, go commando or opt for undies that aren’t so tight.
Another great way to increase circulation is to sleep in your birthday suit.
#10 Dehydration
Sometimes we forget just how vital water is to our entire body.
Our cells and blood stream constantly need an adequate amount of water to operate smoothly.
It’s pivotal to our circulatory system and our body as a whole.
If you’re dehydrated, your cells, connective tissue, and blood flow will suffer.
This then leads to a whole heap of problems in addition to causing cellulite.
Do yourself a favor and drink up! (Water that is)
One Last Remark
It’s important to keep your body healthy inside and out to prevent and reduce cellulite.
It takes just a little effort and time on your part, and the results are more than worth it.
Keep these 10 causes of cellulite in mind and you’l be on your way!
