I only buy a swimsuit every two years. You know why? The horror of looking in the mirror with overheard glare lights, in a skimpy 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 be attached to the thighs, hips, buttocks and/or abdomen. There are ways to control those bulges and make your body more streamlined, and I’m here to help!

First, what exactly is cellulite? Fat trapped just below the skin, trapped between the fibrous tissues that anchor the skin to the deeper muscles. The fat cells expand and push on 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’s relatively new, and actually 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 all at the same time to work cellulite into submission. I’ve tried this (most places that offer it will let you try it out) and it’s awkward. However, for serious cellulite, it really is the best solution. But since most of us don’t want to spend THAT kind of money, I’ll move on to cheaper, easier, and certainly more comfortable 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. Decrease dietary fat: You should get about 25% of your calories from fat (try to make sure it’s things like olive oil and nuts).

5. Self-tanner: having some color will help hide cellulite. Helps even 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 30 mg 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. Stockings to massage cellulite. I’ll be honest, I haven’t tried them. It is said that they are super massagers and that they “stimulate the microcirculation of the skin, relieve fluid retention and reduce cellulite”. It actually makes sense to me, so I think it might be worth a try if you have serious cellulite or have the money.

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

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

What doesn’t work?

1. Most lotions and creams can help temporarily, but it will be just that: temporary. If it makes you feel good, or if it helps to 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 recirculates through your body, the inches come back. Again, if you like the feeling, go for it. But it is expensive and temporary.

3. Liposuction for cellulite: Generally, and I mean generally, this will not get rid of cellulite. 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 to all of you is this; 90% of women have some cellulite. Yeah, 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 butt” will be as smooth as a “baby’s butt”!