If someone hasn’t told you lately: cellulite is completely normal—and more common than you might think. In fact, studies show that between 80% and 90% of all women who have gone through puberty have cellulite. (That’s compared to less than 10% of men.) Despite what common myths might have you believe, for most people, cellulite is an inevitable part of life. However, it is natural to want to reduce the appearance of cellulite or slow down its growth, especially as you get older. Although genetics plays a role, there are a few tried and true strategies for dealing with stubborn cellulite. The latest method? Fighting cellulite—and yes, we’re concerned.
Brooke Taylor LAc, MAcOM
Brooke created The Road in Austin, Texas to share her knowledge in holistic skin care, acupuncture and Chinese medicine to enhance our own internal healing responses. Previously an esthetician and global skincare educator and product manager, she pursued her expertise in Chinese medicine to help heal others on a deeper level. She now combines cosmetic acupuncture and Chinese medicine, facial sculpting techniques, selective skin care, and high-tech techniques to guide clients on their journey to look and feel their best, completely.
What is cupping?
Although skin tightening creams and oils can help improve skin elasticity and can sometimes reduce the appearance of cellulite, you’ll get the most significant results by going under the skin. Treatments such as laser and lymphatic drainage are common to reduce cellulite. In recent years, cupping has emerged as a modern technique, drawing from ancient medicine.
To learn all about cupping, I spoke with Brooke Taylor, founder of The Road in Austin and an expert in holistic skincare and Chinese medicine. “90% of women have cellulite, including athletes. I would consider this a normal body response that doesn’t need to be eliminated – almost all of us have it. If you are concerned, cupping is an inexpensive and accessible way to reduce the appearance. Otherwise, get your dimple! “
Taylor notes that cupping has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine. However, its use is now more widespread, as many cultures rely on the cup to reduce muscle and tissue loss. This procedure involves inserting a cup or container that creates a vacuum when applied to the skin. “There are many types of cupping, but we usually do sliding cupping to deal with cellulite.”
Cupping Benefits
“Cupping was originally used for certain diseases and conditions but it became popular in Western culture when athletes started cupping to recover after exercise, and celebrities showed off the marks on their cups,” said Taylor. But you don’t have to be an athlete to benefit from cupping. In fact, almost anyone can benefit from the program, he notes.
“There are so many health-related applications for cupping, but most people would benefit from a physical session to help with muscle tension. It can be very relaxing, help the nervous system, and increase mobility.”
What causes cellulite? And how can cupping help you?
Cellulite is genetic, but there are additional factors that can contribute to its appearance. Some factors are unavoidable, such as aging, but others, such as a sedentary lifestyle, can increase the appearance of cellulite.
“Take care of your overall health—hydration and minerals, healthy fats and collagen-producing foods, hormone balance, and sleep. Protect your skin from sun damage or drying; Sun damage thins the skin and breaks down elastin and collagen, which can make the appearance more visible.”
How to use Cupping for Cellulite
Thanks to social media, self-diagnosing cellulite has become a new trend. “Cupping is a common practice now to help the appearance of cellulite,” says Taylor. As it turns out, this is one of those viral methods that has merit.
“Cupping therapy can improve the appearance of cellulite to some extent by increasing blood circulation, both vascular and lymphatic, where weak connective tissue creates a dimple effect. The negative pressure produced by the cups pulls the skin and other tissues upwards, helping to remove excess fluid, toxins, and certain lipids in the area. We also work on the bound fascia, which often occurs when you sit for long hours.”
Although you will probably feel the difference after one session, reducing visible cellulite takes a change in your muscles and circulation as a whole. “In the world of cellulite diet experts, we often recommend a series of six sessions for the best results,” says Taylor. “The first session can cause pain as the fascia is involved, and the insertion and attachment of the muscles are stretched with the strokes of the cup. [The appearance of cellulite] it will decrease over time as the muscles begin to work more efficiently and blood circulation improves.”
Can you make a cellulite cup at home?
If you want to experience the benefits of cupping at home, therapy can work—as long as you’re consistent. “Home cupping can be effective, especially with techniques and techniques to deal with the fascia and associated lymphatics.”
Home cupping is also a great way to supplement in-office treatments between sessions. “It is difficult to match the care and skills of a doctor for this service, but home care during the sessions or after the series helps to maintain your results.”
To get the most out of your at-home treatment, Taylor shares this tip: “For the best DIY results, apply oil to the area to help the cups slide. The pressure should be firm but relaxed. You have to walk slowly, give the muscles time to respond. A few times a week is enough, which gives the muscles time to recover and the fluid to move and absorb.”
Some Strategies to Consider
Cupping for cellulite usually works best when combined with other treatments. Together, they work to train your skin’s muscles and maintain elasticity. “Some find that dry brushing before drinking helps by promoting blood circulation,” says Taylor.
Red light therapy—famous for helping you achieve glowing skin—may have some effect on cellulite. “We use this at my clinic at The Desert Canary post lymphatic massage therapy, cupping, myofascial massage, or wood therapy massage, all of which can help cellulite. If you’re testing red light technology for facial effects for home use, you might consider a light panel to be more versatile in its use on the legs and arms.”
- Red Light Therapy. By increasing collagen production and blood flow, red light therapy can gradually reduce the appearance of cellulite
- Microcurrent technology. Microcurrent helps to stimulate circulation, preventing decay that causes cellulite.
- Fascia Therapy. Fascia-blasting is a manual technique to loosen the fascia, helping to reduce pain and cellulite.
- Myofascial Massage Therapy. This massage technique is used to help break up fat deposits and reduce inflammation.
- Health Nutrition/Collagen Support. Focusing on your diet and adding collagen supplements to your routine can help prevent the sagging skin that can cause cellulite.
- Vibration plate. Vibration therapy can help tone and reduce cellulite by training and strengthening your muscles.
- Movement. Regular movement can prevent swelling, improve blood circulation, and reduce cellulite. Getting those 10,000 steps a day can go a long way than you think.