• Where does cellulite come from?
• Cellulite and nutrition
• Treating cellulite with plucking massage
• Cheat trick for smooth skin
• Have cellulite treated by a professional
• Which sport helps against cellulite?
• Treating cellulite - the dos and don'ts

The sun is finally shining a little longer every day and temperatures are climbing again. Now is the time to show your body and skin some special affection. With a little patience, perseverance and simple tricks, even annoying problem areas can be visibly improved in time for the summer bikini season.

Where does cellulite come from?

Nine out of ten women are affected by so-called "orange peel skin" - regardless of their weight, by the way, as weak connective tissue is often genetic. Until puberty, female and male connective tissue has the same structure, after which there are significant differences: "The fat cells are connected to the connective tissue differently. In contrast to the tightly meshed and reticular connective tissue in men, collagen strands lie side by side in the female body. As a result, the subcutaneous fatty tissue is not as stable and firm, but can stretch widely and is therefore ideally equipped for pregnancy," explains Senka Orec, head cosmetician at cosmetics manufacturer Klapp. "In addition to hormones, genes, lifestyle and individual care are of course also important," says the professional.

Cellulite occurs more frequently with increasing age. The expert knows: "The body loses its ability to form collagen as we get older. However, this protein is an important component of the fiber network in connective tissue. Due to the reduced production, the inner supporting strength of the fibers decreases." The result: the skin no longer appears firm and smooth, but becomes softer and softer, and unsightly dimples appear. "What's more, the fat cells can't be held back in the subcutis, they enlarge and reach the surface of the skin," says Senka Orec. Once the dimples are visible, they can no longer be removed. However, cellulite can be treated and gradually reduced.

Cellulite and nutrition

Nutrients strengthen the tissue: Our connective tissue has the ability to store minerals in the body. However, if we frequently consume white flour, sugar, caffeine, alcohol or dairy products in our diet, this leads to the body becoming over-acidified over time. This effect weakens the connective tissue and promotes cellulite. A predominantly alkaline diet with lots of fruit and vegetables is better suited to treating cellulite. Crunchy salad, nuts and fruit such as pineapple, apples or bananas contain lots of vitamins and minerals and help the body to neutralize acids. This strengthens the tissue and also helps to shed excess pounds. To stimulate the metabolism, drink two liters of still water every day. Draining herbal tea also makes curves look crisper and firmer and detoxifies: enjoy a pleasant cup of steaming tea straight after getting up.

Treat cellulite with a plucking massage

For a firm complexion: cellulite can be treated externally with an intensive massage. It stimulates blood circulation and thus firms the supporting tissue: every morning and evening, rub a dab of firming body oil into the palms of your hands and work it in. Pluck and roll the skin for five minutes with light pressure. This allows the active ingredients to be ideally absorbed into the skin. The more diligently we apply cream and massage, the quicker the first results will appear.

Cheat trick for smooth skin

Self-tanner for an instant effect: For special occasions, we naturally want to look as great as possible. Self-tanner then ensures quick results. A delicately tanned complexion reflects less sunlight than fair skin. This makes the legs in dresses and skirts look more even. Prepare the skin with a peeling the day before, then rub in the tanning lotion. The tanning also makes the silhouette look slimmer.

Treat cellulite with a professional

The new method for treating cellulite: if the dimples are more pronounced or the level of discomfort is extremely high, a cosmetic surgeon can help. With the so-called subcision method, the doctor cuts through individual strands of connective tissue with a laser under local anaesthetic. This creates a smooth skin surface and the cellulite disappears permanently. Unfortunately, the costs of up to 5,000 euros are not covered by health insurance.

Which sport helps against cellulite?

Admittedly: There is no way around a little sweat when it comes to reducing cellulite through sport. Exercising the muscles activates fat burning and strengthens the tissue. The lymph flow is also stimulated during exercise: the fine lymphatic channels remove all metabolic waste products from the blood and ensure that the fluid balance of the tissue remains in equilibrium. These exercises, which work the muscles, are ideal for cellulite: support both knees and elbows on the floor. Fold your hands, then raise your right leg 10 times and slowly lower it again. Then repeat with the left leg. Perform daily.

Read also:Exercises against cellulite: what really helps

Treating cellulite - the dos and don'ts

Dos

Wholesome diet
Eat natural foods with a high nutrient and vital substance content: Fresh fruit and vegetables, lean meat, fish and wholegrain products are ideal.

Regularity in skin care
Whether it's creaming, exfoliating or massaging - everything should be done daily (preferably in the shower) or twice a day in the case of body care products.

Drink properly
A balanced fluid balance plays a major role: still water and unsweetened teas are ideal.

Strength training or swimming
Sports that build muscle and therefore shape the body are great for effectively combating cellulite

Don'ts

Poor diet
Too much sugar and fatty foods promote fat deposits in the body.

Wasted money
If you only cream once a week or take supplements for a month, you can save yourself the investment.

The wrong drinks
Juices are not good for your waistline due to their high fructose content. The same goes for soft drinks with sweeteners such as Diet Coke. There are even studies that link sugar substitutes (and plastic from PET bottles) to cellulite.

Cardio training or jogging
These are ideal for fitness and body conditioning, but not for counteracting dimples.

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