Flaunt smooth as silk, dimple-free skin in no time
Jennifer Lopez has it. So, do Eva Longoria and Cheryl Cole. Closer home Sonam Kapoor has admitted to the C word. We’re talking about cellulite that dreaded orange peel, rippled skin that strikes hips, thighs, and stomachs without warning. In fact, talk to any dermatologist and you’ll discover that almost 90 percent of post-adolescence females suffer from it. Caused by imbalances in the body’s connective tissue and fat, hormonal imbalances, faulty diets and lifestyles, and of course genetics, cellulite can strike the sveltest among us. “But how can I get rid of it,” you wail. Forget fancy—and expensive—claims by medi spas and check out these seven tried and tested cellulite dissolving treatments. You’ll be flaunting smooth as silk derriere and thighs before you know it.
Dry Brushing
There might not be enough scientific evidence to support this but the number of fans of this treatment abound. Either way it stimulates blood and lymph flow and opens the pores. You can do it during bath times before you shower, just don’t get the brush wet. Remember to brush upwards towards the heart, making long sweeping circular motions. Start at your feet and, move up your legs on both sides, then work from your hands up your arms towards your chest. On your stomach, move the brush counter clockwise. Remember not to brush too hard. You want to stimulate skin, not graze it off. Use a semi-stiff natural, vegetable derived bristle brush. If it has an attachable handle for hard to reach sports on the back of thighs and hips even better! Use regularly to slough off dry skin on knees, elbows and ankles. Dry brushing also stimulates blood flow, tightens skin, helps the lymphatic system to release toxins and aids digestion and kidney function. In just a fortnight you’ll notice your complexion getting glowy and smooth. Nykaa recommends The Body Shop Long Handled Cactus Bath Brush
Cucumbers
Of course, this cooling salad essential is a dieter's delight besides being an excellent diuretic that cleanses toxins from the kidneys. Place slices of this hydrating and vitamin rich veggie all over your body regularly to see visible skin tightening. The reason why it's an effective cellulite buster is because the phytochemicals in cucumber tighten collagen and firm up the skin. Also, use to instantly de-puff under-eye bags.
Coffee Scrub
Isn't it ironic that caffeine from coffee and energy drinks worsens cellulite but caffeine applied on skin dilates blood vessels and tightens skin? Local application also helps the skin release toxins and metabolizes fat. You could of course buy a ready-made coffee scrub like Aroma Magic Coffee Bean Scrub or make one at home. Simply combine quarter cup ground coffee beans, three tablespoons brown sugar and two tablespoons of your favorite skin oil (almond, olive or coconut will do) and massage the offending spots using pressure twice a week before you shower. Visible results guaranteed in just a couple of weeks!
The Miracle Beauty Gel
A revolutionary, clinically proven formulation and the VLCC Shape Up Waist & Tummy Trim Gel is your answer to a slimmer, toned, firmer waist and tummy. This Ayurvedic formula is non-greasy and gets absorbed quickly, making its use at home much easier. The gel works in 3 ways by releasing and breaking down cellular fat into consumable energy, flushing out extra-retained water from the system and strengthening skin's surface, giving more toned muscle and skin tissues.
Myofascial massage
A deep tissue or Swedish massage that stimulates the superficial fascia (the layer of connective tissue that lies just beneath the skin and contains fat cells) is also believed to be effective at dislodging pockets of fat dimples that is cellulite. The theory is that inactivity, injuries and incorrect exercise causes fat cells to stick to the fascia, making it less flexible. Myofascial or deep tissue massages are believed to smoothen out the superficial layer of connective tissue, reducing cellulite. Plus, it’s deeply relaxing and kneads out kinks from over stressed shoulders. It’s a good idea to use a cellulite busting massage oil for this such as Aloe Veda Body Massage Oil Slimming & Cellulite Treatment Oil or TVAM Anti-Cellulite Massage Oil
Horse Chestnut extract
There is ample proof that aescin, the active principle in horse chestnut, improves circulation and promotes anti-inflammatory and vaso-constrictive effects. Take daily to reduce swelling, especially when related to varicose veins, to strengthen capillaries and treat cellulite.
Omega-3s
There is a theory that eating the wrong kind of fats—found in cream, butter, fried foods and junk foods—can cause an imbalance in the fatty acids the body needs for smooth skin and tissues. On the other hand, eating healthy unsaturated fats found in nuts and seeds, and taking Omega 3 fatty acids and fat soluble vitamins reduces cellulite over time. Besides, Omega fats are beneficial for the heart, joints, cardiovascular and immune systems too. If you haven’t already, start taking an Omega 3, 6, 9 supplement it’s time you did. Take your pick of St.Botanica Fish Oil 1000 mg - Double Strength - 550 mg Omega 3 or HealthAid Flaxseed Oil 1000mg - Omega 3.6.9
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