Have you ever noticed any dimple-like appearance on your hips, thighs or other fleshy body parts? It may look like the skin on those areas is a little lumpy.
That is what is called cellulite. Having cellulite might make you feel extra self-conscious and maybe a bit uncomfortable with how you look, but cellulite is a very common occurrence. A lot of people experience it.
Are you bothered by it? Should you be?
Cellulite is harmless and poses no threat to you or your well-being. Although it is quite common, there is a lot of misinformation about cellulite, what it means, and people who have it.
Here are some popular myths about cellulite and the hard facts:
MYTH: Cellulite affects only women
FACT
Cellulite does not only appear in women. Women are at a higher risk of having cellulite because of the thinness of the collagen structure in their connective tissues compared to men. Men have stronger connective tissues, which makes it easier to hold fat in, but this does not mean they cannot get cellulite.
MYTH: Cellulite occurs in only overweight people
FACT
While weight increases susceptibility to cellulite, it does not mean that people in shape cannot get it. It can happen to anyone. Being overweight makes it more noticeable because the more body fat you have, the harder it is for your connective tissues to hold it in.
| MYTHS | FACTS | |
| 1 | Cellulite affects only women | Cellulite can affect men too. |
| 2 | Cellulite occurs in only overweight people | Cellulite can occur in anyone, even fit people |
| 3 | Clothing can help with cellulite | Clothing does not treat cellulite |
| 4 | Cellulite is caused by toxins in the body | Cellulite is associated with body fat and the connective tissues in those areas. |
| 5 | Skin-firming creams can treat cellulite | There is no evidence that skin-firming creams can help with cellulite. |
| 6 | Hips and thighs are the only areas affected by cellulite. | Cellulite can appear on any part of your body that has more fatty tissues. |
MYTH: Clothing can help with cellulite
FACT
Clothing does not help treat cellulite. Some clothing can help your body jiggle less when you move. But dressing a certain way will not affect cellulite formation on your body.
MYTH: Toxins in the body cause the appearance of cellulite
FACT
Cellulite is associated with body fat and connective tissues in those fatty areas. It can also be caused by lack of exercise and poor circulation, but it has absolutely nothing to do with toxins in your body.
MYTH: Skin-firming creams can help treat cellulite
FACT
There is no evidence to support the claim that skin-firming creams have any effect on cellulite. You may want to hold off on spending your hard-earned coins on those miracle cures you hear about.
MYTH: Hips and Thighs are the only areas that can be affected
FACT
Cellulite can appear on any part of your body with more fatty tissues, not just your hips and thighs. Areas like your abdomen, buttocks and even your breasts can also get cellulite.
If you struggle with cellulite, you are not alone. It is common, especially in women. If you are uncomfortable with the cellulite on your body, exercise is the way to go. Since cellulite results from fat, losing fat cells can help get rid of it. Remember to stay well hydrated, cut down on processed food, and maintain a healthy weight to remain in good shape.
If you are worried about how you look or how much weight you are gaining and how it affects your health, speak to a doctor on Doctall.