Cellulite, the dimpled, spongy flesh caused by swollen fat cells, is the bane of many women's lives. Poor circulation, hormonal changes, food allergies, and environmental toxins have all been blamed. But whatever the cause, the condition can be vastly improved by taking just a few minutes a day to increase your circulation and improve lymphatic drainage (your lymph glands, situated in the neck, under the arms, and in the groin, help to rid the body of toxins). Skin brushing improves lymphatic drainage. A salt rub is particularly effective on problem areas. Anti-cellulite oil works by increasing circulation and eliminating toxins. Choose any one of these three treatments if time is short. Combine them for a really effective "war on cellulite" when time allows.
Body Brushing
Using a long-handled natural bristle brush, simply brush your skin before you get in the batch or shower. Start at the feet and brush your skin in firm, sweeping upward movements. Brush firmly enough to produce a pink glow on the skin. Brush the whole of your body in this way, paying particular attention to cellulite-prone areas. Aim to do this daily. It will improve your skin tone and is one of the simplest, most effective, treatments in helping to disperse the fatty deposits that may cause cellulite.
Anti-Cellulite Rub
You will need: a handful of coarse sea salt and mixed with 1 tbsp/15ml olive oil. Rub the mixture of sea salt and olive oil into areas affected by cellulite on your body. Rinse off well in the bath or shower.
Anti-Cellulite Oil
You will need: 1 tsp/5ml wheat germ oil, 3 tbsp/45ml grape seed oil, 10 drops lemon essential oil, 5 drops cypress essential oil. Blend the oils together. Massage the mixture into cellulite-prone regions (hips, buttocks, inner thighs, upper arms), using firm, circular motions. For extra effectiveness, use after body brushing and after the anti-cellulite salt rub.
Helpful Tips
To help eliminate or prevent cellulite, you need to think about your body on the inside, too. Drink plenty of water and take time to exercise, as cellulite is often a sign that you are storing too much fat. Try to avoid drastic weight changes, which can lead to cellulite. If you are dieting, aim for a steady weight loss of around 2lb (1kg) a week. Taking extra estrogen can make cellulite worse. If you take the combined oral contraceptive pill, ask your doctor if it is possible to switch to a lower dose formulation. Alternatively, switch to the progesterone only pill or use a barrier method of contraception.
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MARCH 25
