Cellulite is a huge problem for many women because it ruins their smooth skin in the arms, buttocks, thighs, and other parts of the body. Although thigh cellulite is mostly harmless, many women look for non-surgical cellulite removal treatments like massage therapy.
So how does massage therapy work as an effective thigh cellulite reduction treatment? Therapists use anti-cellulite massage to break down the fat tissue underneath the skin of the treatment areas. This treatment also improves blood circulation and lymph drainage to accelerate the body’s recovery process. Unlike full body massage, massage therapists only utilize rolling and pinching techniques on the specific areas of the body with noticeable cellulite.
Unlike what most people believe, cellulite formation isn’t a result of excess fat accumulation in the body. It’s a common skin condition that affects about 80-90% of adult women. There are many factors to consider when it comes to finding the main reason for cellulite appearance, including hormones, lifestyle, poor diet, toxins, decreased collagen production, age, genetics, weight gain, and pregnancy.
Women are more likely to have at least one visible cellulite dimple on their skin because of the way their bodies store fatty tissue. The fat deposit is found in between the connective tissue underneath the skin. The fibrous band pulls the skin down and connects it to the muscles while the fat cells push the skin up, creating a dimpled appearance.
Cellulite appearance on the skin affects an individual’s self-esteem and confidence in their body. If you’re bothered by the dimpled skin on the thighs, massage therapy is a safe and helpful cellulite removal method that works great with other treatments.
Massage therapy for cellulite specifically targets the problem areas where there’s noticeable dimpling, like the thighs and buttocks. The idea is to massage and break down the body fat deposit under cellulite. The treatment also increases blood flow for a quicker recovery time.
Massage therapists may also use tools like foam rollers and handheld massagers to enhance the treatment’s effects. Some of them also apply anti cellulite cream or anti cellulite oil for smoother skin in the treatment areas.
Different types of massage therapy target different parts of the skin. An effective anti-cellulite massage should reach the hypodermis, the third layer of the skin where the “cellulite” is found. Any deeper is unnecessary because it won’t reduce the volume of cellulite anymore. It might maintain the overall health of the skin and adipose tissue, but it isn’t essential for improving the appearance of dimple skin.
Although massage therapy isn’t as powerful as other cellulite reduction treatments for the thighs, they’re still a great addition to other procedures. There are many kinds of massage therapy used for cellulite-busting but here are some of the most commonly used methods:
Self-massage with essential oil helps reduce the appearance of cellulite on the thighs and other parts of the body. The combination of oils and herbs applied during the process eventually infuses through the skin and breaks down the fat deposits.
When it comes to self-massage, the movement is more important than the anti-cellulite oil used. All movements must be firm to effectively stimulate blood flow in the treatment areas and get rid of excess water that causes cellulite. Kneading, pounding, pinching, pressing, and circular motions are effective self-massage techniques. Make sure to do them at home for about 15 to 20 minutes.
This type of massage therapy is also known as Endermologie. During the treatment, the client receives a deep tissue massage combined with a vacuum-like device to lift the skin. The idea is to soften the hardened fat underneath the skin and help the body flush it out naturally.
Deep tissue massage is completely relaxing and painless. Bruising might occur, but it typically fades after a few days. Patients usually require multiple sessions of Endermologie to experience significant results. They may enjoy smoother and healthier skin that lasts for about 12 months or longer, as long as they maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle.
Lymphatic massage is a technique that involves moving the lymph fluid towards the lymph nodes where the toxins are expelled. Lymphatic drainage is important for toning the legs and removing excess fluid in the treatment areas. It also reduces inflammation and minimizes the appearance of cellulite. This type of massage is recommended for people with heavy legs or blood flow problems.
During a lymphatic drainage massage, the therapist starts at the neck area to stimulate the lymph nodes. Once they’re open, the therapist starts massaging the areas of the body to move the fluids toward the lymph nodes. This treatment also offers the added benefit of slimmer thighs and calves.
Dry brushing is another kind of massage therapy that works for exfoliation and detoxification. The dry brush removes the dead skin cells at the topmost layer of the skin and stimulates new cell growth. The massage motions created by brushing the skin help improve blood circulation and lymph flow for better detoxification.
Body brushes with soft bristles and natural plant loofahs are commonly used for dry brushing. Just gently smooth the dry skin using the brush in a circular motion. Do this for about five minutes before taking a bath or quick shower. Make sure to start at the feet then work your way up.
This type of anti-cellulite massage utilizes suction cups to pull the skin into a vacuum. This process helps stimulate blood circulation and break down fat deposits. Vacuum cupping also tightens and rejuvenates the skin for a healthier appearance.
Vacuum cupping massage is usually performed by licensed massage therapists, but it’s also safe to try at home using store-bought silicone cups. This method makes the skin look healthy and alive immediately. However, using these silicone cups incorrectly might result in bruising or worse spider veins.
Caffeine is a common ingredient in most anti-cellulite creams because it tightens the skin, stimulates fat metabolism, and prevents water accumulation from the fat tissues. Coffee grounds are also great for exfoliating the treatment areas and encouraging cell growth.
Just gently rub the coffee grounds on the problem areas for a few minutes to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Some people also leave the ingredient stuck on the skin for about 10 minutes before rinsing it. Coffee grounds may also be mixed with sugar, coconut oil, or olive oil for optimal results.
A cellulite massager is a popular home treatment method for cellulite. It’s designed to produce the same results and benefits as an anti-cellulite massage. The device breaks down fat deposits and improves blood flow in the treatment areas. Most cellulite massagers come with different pressure and vibration customizations to help patients control the depth and force of the massage.
When using the cellulite massager, fasten the spiky head attachment first. Massage the problem areas in a circular motion for about five minutes before changing the attachment into the circular one. Use the device again for another five minutes.
While anti-cellulite massage therapy helps eliminate cellulite in the thighs and other treatment areas, it might not be the best cellulite removal procedure for everyone. Here are other common cellulite reduction treatments to try if you think massage therapy is taking too long to show visible results:
Massage therapy at home, a healthy diet, and regular exercise are some of the best and cheapest ways to eliminate cellulite on the thighs and other body parts. However, if the appearance of dimpled skin is bothering you, it’s better to talk to a doctor, dermatologist, or plastic surgeon about different anti-cellulite treatments.
Here at Cellulite Treatment Center of NJ, we want our patients to feel more confident about their bodies. Our highly trained staff offers effective cellulite removal treatments to smooth the skin without going through surgery. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment and discuss the possible treatment options.
