Cellulite Treatment

Cellulite, a condition affecting over ninety percent of women, can lead to feelings of self-consciousness or low self-esteem. Many women seek solutions to minimize the appearance of cellulite, which manifests as dimples on the skin’s surface due to the tension between bulging fat cells and fibrous connective tissue. Fortunately, there are numerous non-invasive treatment options available to enhance the cosmetic appearance of cellulite. These treatments include topical creams, FDA-approved radiofrequency treatments, and laser therapies, all of which can significantly improve cellulite’s visual aspects. In fact, cellulite treatment is among the most sought-after body contouring procedures at Dr. Michele Green‘s private dermatology office in New York City.

Since the exact cause of cellulite is unknown, there is currently no method for preventing it. Cellulite can occur in individuals of any weight, age, ethnicity, and gender, although it most commonly affects women. While liposuction can be helpful for removing excess fat, plastic surgery is generally not the best option for cellulite reduction. Instead, experts typically recommend nonsurgical treatments, such as Thermage radiofrequency laser therapy, Cellfina, Cellulaze, Acoustic wave therapy, and injectable fillers, which are often more effective for reducing cellulite and provide natural-looking, long-lasting results.

Dr. Green offers a variety of these treatment options and will collaborate with you to determine which ones are best suited to your specific needs and aesthetic goals so that you can look and feel like the best version of yourself. Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients from around the world with the finest non-invasive treatment options available, including cellulite reduction. She adopts a holistic approach and espouses a less-is-more philosophy regarding skin rejuvenation and body contouring. She customizes each patient’s treatment plan to incorporate a unique combination of specially formulated skincare products and in-office treatment options for optimal results. Dr. Green is consistently recognized as one of the top dermatologists in New York City by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and the New York Times for her dedication to her patients and expertise, as well as her cutting-edge laser treatments, top-notch Botox injections, dermal fillers, skin tightening laser therapies, CoolSculpting, and other non-invasive cosmetic procedures treatments.

What is cellulite?

Cellulite is a common skin condition caused by the tension between an accumulation of fat cells beneath the skin’s surface and fibrous connective tissue, leading to the appearance of rippling or lumpy, dimpled skin. The connective tissue, or septae, connecting the skin to the underlying muscle consists of fibrous bands that affect the skin structure, resulting in dimpling. As fat cells increase and expand, they start to bulge toward the skin’s surface. The fibrous bands pull back against the fat cells, creating the appearance of dimples and ripples along the skin. Cellulite typically affects areas of the body with the highest fat distribution, such as the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, breasts, and upper arms.

According to the AAD (American Academy of Dermatology), cellulite affects ninety percent of adult women in the United States. Although anyone can develop cellulite, women are significantly more predisposed to it than men. Cellulite can occur in individuals of all sizes and is not limited to those who are overweight. However, the severity and overall appearance of cellulite can vary depending on the thickness and elasticity of a person’s skin, meaning it may become more noticeable with age. Ultimately, the amount of cellulite a person has is influenced not only by their percentage of body fat but also by genetics.

What are the different grades of cellulite?

In the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology, published in 2009, doctors established a severity scale for accessing cellulite. The cellulite scale established three grades ranging from grade 1 to 3.

• Grade 1 – (mild) superficial dimpling with an “orange peel” appearance and 1-4 slight depressions in the skin.
• Grade 2 – (moderate) deeper skin rippling with a “cottage cheese” “-like appearance and 5-9 medium depressions in the skin.
• Grade 3 – (severe) deep skin rippling with a “mattress-like” appearance and ten or more deep depressions.

What causes cellulite?

Several factors contribute to the appearance of cellulite, though the exact underlying cause remains largely unknown. Fat cells play a role in the appearance of cellulite but are not the direct cause. A deeper layer of fat resides within the dermis, beneath the connective tissues. As the fat cells in that lower layer increase and expand, they push against the honeycomb pattern of the connective tissue, resulting in the dimpled skin appearance of cellulite. In some areas, they bulge, while in others, they are anchored by the tougher fibers above. This interplay between fibrous bands and fat cells creates pushing and pulling in different directions within the skin, and the tension between them leads to the dimples and ripples that characterize the appearance of cellulite on the skin’s surface.

What are the risk factors for developing cellulite?

Aging, poor diet, genetics, and hormones are all factors that can contribute to the appearance of cellulite. While exercise and diet can be managed to help prevent fat cells from accumulating, and thereby reduce the development of cellulite, there is no guarantee. Since genetics influence cellulite, some individuals are more prone to its development than others. Although fat cells contribute to cellulite’s visibility, individuals of any weight, size, and age may develop it. Many factors contribute to the formation of cellulite, including genetics, which tends to run in families. Women are more likely than men to develop cellulite due to naturally thinner skin and the tendency to store fat in the buttocks, hips, and thighs. Other factors also play a role in the appearance of cellulite, such as hormone fluctuations, weight gain, a sedentary lifestyle, skin laxity, aging, and certain medications. Regardless of the underlying factors affecting your skin condition, the appearance of cellulite can be reduced through various non-invasive treatment options available at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in New York City. When you consult with Dr. Green for cellulite treatment, she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that best suits your needs and goals.

Does cellulite go away with treatment?

Cellulite is very difficult to eliminate, and even making certain lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and eating healthily, may not be sufficient to achieve a noticeable reduction in cellulite. While cellulite itself cannot be entirely removed, there are many treatment options available to reduce its appearance, including non-invasive, nonsurgical options offered at a dermatologist’s office, such as Dr. Green’s in New York City. She provides a variety of treatments that work to rejuvenate the skin and achieve optimal cellulite reduction with no downtime. When you consult with Dr. Green, she can create a customized treatment plan that caters to your unique needs and desired aesthetic goals.

What is the best treatment for cellulite?

Several fat removal and skin tightening treatment options are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cellulite reduction and have no side effects. With many available options at Dr. Green’s office, it is important to note that no one treatment is inherently “better” than another; rather, it is most important to determine the treatment or series of treatments that will work best for you. The best way to find the correct treatment option is by consulting with Dr. Green in her New York City dermatology office. The most popular treatments offered at Dr. Green’s office are all designed to improve the appearance of cellulite and include Thermage radiofrequency laser treatment and Sculptra dermal filler injections.

Thermage for cellulite reduction treatment

Thermage is a non-invasive procedure for skin tightening and cellulite reduction that utilizes radiofrequency energy to stimulate new collagen production in the dermal layers of the skin. Collagen is an important skin protein that provides structural support and contributes to a firm, smooth, and tight skin texture. By replenishing collagen, Thermage helps increase skin elasticity and smoothes out cellulite dimples. With the newly designed total body tip, Thermage® FLX can penetrate deeper into the skin tissue painlessly and effectively to both tighten and smooth the skin. The procedure takes approximately one hour, and results are gradually seen over four to six months. Thermage® is suitable for all skin types with no downtime, allowing patients to easily schedule their treatment sessions and resume normal daily activities immediately after the procedure. Thermage can be performed on nearly any body area, including the buttocks, upper thighs, abdomen, and upper arms.

Sculptra Injections for cellulite treatment

Sculptra is a dermal filler product made of poly-L-lactic acid, an FDA-approved substance that stimulates collagen production and corrects depressions and surface irregularities in the skin. Many patients use Sculptra to target facial volume loss and reduce the appearance of textural acne scars; however, it can also be used for a nonsurgical Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) to diminish the look of cellulite on the buttocks. By promoting new collagen production in the buttocks area, Sculptra injections can enhance the roundness, firmness, size, and volume of the buttocks while minimizing the appearance of cellulite dimples and rippling. A short series of injections, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, is required for optimal cosmetic results, after which patients can anticipate smoother, less-dimpled skin for up to two years.

Intense Pulsed Laser (IPL) therapy

Intense Pulsed Light treatment, also known as IPL, uses various wavelengths of light to address different skin conditions. With its range of wavelengths, IPL can treat numerous skin concerns, including skin laxity, hyperpigmentation, sun spots, age spots, acne scars, hair removal, rosacea, and broken blood vessels. The Forever Young BBL, a new IPL treatment from Sciton, delivers light energy to the dermal layer of the skin to stimulate collagen production, tighten the skin, and diminish the appearance of cellulite. Some research even suggests that the Forever Young BBL may alter the expression of genes linked to aging and longevity (doi: 10.1038/jid.2012.287). Patients typically participate in an initial series of four to six treatment sessions spaced one month apart, followed by regular maintenance sessions to sustain and enhance their results.

Velashape for cellulite reduction

Velashape is a nonsurgical body contouring procedure that combines cellulite reduction and body contouring for overall rejuvenation. Velashape is a non-invasive treatment that uses heat, infrared light, radiofrequency, and vacuum technology to manipulate the fibrous bands beneath the skin to improve the appearance of cellulite. This vacuum technology suction breaks up the lumpy pockets within the skin while the infrared light and bi-polar radio frequency energy gently heat the fat cells and surrounding tissue. Ideal cellulite reduction results are achieved with 5-6 treatment sessions spaced three weeks apart. After Velashape treatment, the skin texture in the treatment area is visibly smoother and firmer. Initial cellulite reduction results can be seen after three sessions. Velashape® is completely painless and requires no downtime after treatment. Each session takes less than an hour and can be done in any season and for all skin types.

Subcision with Cellfina for cellulite reduction

Cellfina is an FDA-approved subcision technique that targets and improves the dimples associated with cellulite. The Cellfina procedure involves using a device with a blade the size of a small needle to physically break up the connective bands beneath the skin that cause the lumpy appearance of cellulite dimples. The total number of Cellfina treatments required to smooth out the appearance of the skin is dependent on the number of dimples that are present in the skin in a treatment area. The dimples that are targeted during a treatment session are typically permanently removed; however, new cellulite dimples do have the potential to form as there is no way yet to prevent them from forming. There are a few days of downtime after having a Cellfina procedure, and patients can expect swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the treatment area for several days afterward. There may be some discomfort associated with the procedure itself, though local anesthesia is typically utilized to help reduce patient discomfort. The treatment results are long-lasting and can be observed just a few days after the procedure.

Cellulaze cellulite treatment

Cellulaze is an invasive cosmetic treatment designed to temporarily improve the appearance of cellulite on the buttocks and thighs. During the treatment, a small incision is made in the skin to insert a laser fiber into the subcutaneous tissue. The heat energy from the laser fiber effectively breaks apart the fibrous bands that intensify the look of cellulite dimples. Not only does the treatment break up the septae in the skin, but it also helps to melt away some of the excess fat cells that are bulging and contributing to the appearance of cellulite. Additionally, the laser energy from Cellulaze induces collagen production within the skin, boosting the skin’s elasticity and improving its thickness. The total number of treatments required to observe optimal cosmetic results varies depending on the severity of cellulite and the number of areas being treated with the procedure. Results may be observed after a single treatment, though several sessions are typically required to achieve the best results. Several weeks of downtime are associated with Cellulaze, and patients can expect bruising, swelling, and soreness in the treatment areas following the procedure. Generally, the results from Cellulaze can last for up to twelve months.

Endermologie cellulite treatment

Endermologie is a cellulite reduction treatment that entails using a handheld device that delivers a targeted deep-tissue massage to an area of the body to break apart the cellulite dimples in the skin. The massage effectively tones and tightens the skin, but several sessions are needed to see results. It is common that after completion of the procedure, patients may experience slight bruising and muscle soreness in the treated area. The effects of the Endermologie treatments can last for up to a year.

Acoustic wave therapy

Acoustic wave therapy is an in-office treatment option. The provider uses a handheld device that vibrates sound waves to stimulate the connective tissues of the treatment area. The vibration improves circulation and stimulates collagen build-up, which is supposed to improve the appearance of cellulite. Typically, several treatment sessions are needed to see results, after which results can last for up to two years, depending on the area treated.

Emtone radiofrequency treatment

Emtone is an anti-cellulite treatment that works via radio frequency (RF) technology to address the various causes of cellulite. The Emtone applies RF energy and heat to the treatment area at between 108 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, new elastin and collagen production is triggered to tighten and smooth out the skin. Acoustic waves are also emitted from the Emtone device to increase circulation in the treatment area and boost skin cell turnover. The Emtone treatment can be used on all body areas that may be affected by cellulite, including the arms, legs, buttocks, and abdomen.

Aveli for the treatment of cellulite

Aveli is a minimally invasive procedure that is FDA-cleared for cellulite reduction in the buttocks and thighs. Aveli works as a cellulite treatment by specifically targeting the fibrous bands, or septae, that pull down against fat cells and create the appearance of cellulite dimples. The dimples to be treated are marked by the provider (a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon), and the device is inserted beneath the skin’s surface to alter the structure of the septae, releasing the tension and resulting in a smoother skin texture. Similar to Cellfina, Aveli relies on mechanical subcision technology, although Aveli offers more precise treatment. Common side effects of Aveli include bruising and swelling in the treatment area. Usually, a single treatment session is effective for cellulite reduction, although this treatment option can not prevent new pimples from forming.

Carboxytherapy for cellulite reduction

Carboxytherapy is a procedure that can improve the appearance of several skin concerns, including cellulite, dark under-eye circles, and stretch marks. It involves injecting carbon dioxide into the subcutaneous tissue to improve blood circulation in the targeted treatment area. The increased blood flow helps improve the skin’s elasticity, which in turn helps improve the overall appearance of cellulite. In carboxytherapy, the physician may inject carbon dioxide into bulging fat cells, causing them to rupture and be excreted by the body naturally. By reducing the number of fat cells that are protruding underneath the skin, the carboxytherapy procedure helps to smooth out the appearance of cellulite dimples. Patients may experience mild amounts of bruising at or near the injection sites, though this resolves on its own within a few days of treatment. The procedure itself is relatively painless and has been approved by the FDA as a safe and effective method for reducing cellulite.

Microdermabrasion to reduce the appearance of cellulite

Microdermabrasion is a treatment option that works best for patients with grade 1 cellulite. This treatment is performed by a dermatologist who uses aluminum oxide crystals that are designed to exfoliate the skin. The exfoliation of the treated area stimulates skin cell turnover, helps promote the generation of healthy, new skin cells, and improves the skin’s overall appearance. Several treatments are needed to see results. However, this treatment method generally is not as effective for treating the appearance of cellulite compared to newer, more innovative laser treatments like Thermage. During your consultation with Dr. Green, you can discuss which treatment options best suit your skin condition and desired cosmetic results.

How to improve cellulite with Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy, commonly referred to as liquid liposuction, involves injecting a special combination of proteins and enzymes directly into the skin to enhance the overall appearance of cellulite dimples and ripples. During the procedure, the provider injects a meso device into the subcutaneous tissue to break up fat and effectively assist with lymphatic drainage. After the procedure, the body begins to metabolize these fat cells, and any excess fat treated is expelled from the body through natural processes. Typically, multiple treatment sessions are required to effectively address the area and reduce or eliminate cellulite. Patients report that the procedure involves minimal pain, although topical anesthesia can be applied to the targeted area prior to treatment to help alleviate any discomfort. A common side effect is swelling and soreness, which usually last for a few days after treatment. However, you can resume your normal daily activities immediately after a mesotherapy session.

How to treat cellulite naturally

Engaging in healthy lifestyle behaviors, such as exercising regularly, maintaining a balanced diet, and strengthening muscles, can help reduce the appearance of cellulite, irrespective of age, gender, or weight. Dry brushing, a form of Ayurvedic medicine, involves using a bristled brush on dry skin to exfoliate and promote lymphatic drainage. This technique stimulates blood and lymph flow, removes dead skin cells, and encourages new skin cell growth, which may improve the appearance of cellulite. It is most effective for addressing grade 1 cellulite. Dry brushing should be performed in upward circular motions before showering and can be done 2-3 times a week for optimal results. The benefits of dry brushing can persist as long as the practice is maintained. However, no miracle cream, topical treatment regimen, or exercise plan can guarantee the elimination of dimples in the skin.

Before and After Thermage

Frequently Asked Questions about Cellulite Treatment

Is cellulite natural?

Yes, cellulite is a natural and harmless skin condition that is quite common. Cellulite is an exceptionally prevalent skin condition that can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or weight. However, cellulite is more prevalent in women than in men; in fact, it affects over 90% of women compared to less than 10% of men. Women’s fat is typically stored in areas of the body, such as the buttocks and thighs, which commonly develop cellulite. Additionally, women tend to have naturally thinner skin than men, enhancing cellulite’s visibility. Cellulite is also more frequently seen with aging, as skin laxity increases and the condition becomes more prominent. Its appearance may worsen with weight gain, yet cellulite can also affect individuals with a slender build. The occurrence of cellulite is due to a combination of contributing factors, with fat itself not being the sole cause. While cellulite is not dangerous or harmful, its appearance may be perceived as unsightly. For many, cellulite may induce feelings of self-consciousness or low self-esteem.

Is cellulite fat?

No, while fat cells contribute to the appearance of cellulite, they are not the direct cause of it. As fat cells in the lower layer increase and expand, they push against the connective tissue, creating the dimpled skin characteristic of cellulite. Lack of exercise, aging, poor diet, genetics, and hormones are all factors that can lead to the formation of cellulite. Although exercise and diet can be managed to help prevent fat cells from accumulating- and thereby reducing the development of cellulite- there is no guarantee. Since genetics plays a role in cellulite formation, some individuals are more predisposed to develop it than others. While fat cells affect the appearance of cellulite, people of any weight, size, and age can experience it.

How to avoid cellulite

Unfortunately, cellulite cannot be prevented for most people. For many women, cellulite formation is a natural part of the aging process, and some even develop the first signs of cellulite during adolescence. However, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine can help limit the amount of cellulite in the body. For most patients, cellulite treatments such as Thermage FLX are necessary to effectively reduce cellulite.

What is cellulite treatment?

Cellulite treatment is the broad term for any treatment that works to reduce the appearance of dimpling and rippling on the skin’s surface. Treatments like Thermage FLX use radiofrequency to stimulate collagen production, creating smoother and firmer skin to minimize the look of cellulite. Sculptra injections use poly-L-lactic acid to stimulate collagen and correct dimpling in the skin. Subcision treatments like Cellfina work to physically break down the fibrous bands that form dimpling on the skin. Most cellulite treatments are non-invasive and are associated with minimal downtime and side effects. Dr. Green offers a variety of cellulite treatment options that will reduce the appearance of cellulite with long-lasting, natural-looking results.

Is cellulite treatable?

Currently, there is no cure for cellulite. However, it is possible to treat and reduce the appearance of cellulite with various non-invasive cosmetic treatment options. If you are struggling with cellulite rippling or dimples and want to achieve a smoother skin texture without cosmetic surgery, schedule a consultation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green offers a host of non-invasive body contouring and rejuvenating treatment options at her private dermatology office in New York and will work with you to select the procedures that are best suited to you.

How long does cellulite treatment last?

The cellulite reduction treatments offered in the private dermatology office provide long-lasting results. Although there isn’t a cellulite treatment option that can achieve permanent reduction or prevent new dimples from forming, patients can expect the cosmetic effects of their in-office treatments to last at least six months, with many lasting even longer. For example, treatment with Thermage FLX can extend for up to two years after a single session. Most patients interested in cellulite reduction will engage in regular maintenance sessions as part of their plan to maintain optimal cosmetic results. During your consultation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, she will collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns and needs, along with a timeline that works best for you.

How much is cellulite treatment?

The total cost of your cellulite treatment will vary depending on the affected areas of treatment, the severity of the cellulite requiring treatment, and the individual patient’s aesthetic goals. Ultimately, Dr. Green always recommends the best possible treatment combination approach for her patients, focusing on long-lasting results that demonstrate the best improvement in the appearance of cellulite on the skin. When you consult Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, she’ll work with you to determine the treatment plan that best balances your goals and budget.

Do cellulite treatments work?

Yes! Many patients often want to know what truly works for reducing cellulite. For most patients, targeted in-office cellulite treatments like Thermage FLX are very effective in diminishing the appearance of cellulite and dimpling. Some treatments enhance collagen production to boost skin firmness and elasticity, whereas others break down the thickened fibrous bands (septae) to lessen cellulite. Regardless of the method used, non-invasive cellulite reduction treatments are remarkably effective and can provide patients with healthy, smooth, cellulite-free skin that endures.

Is QWO cellulite treatment still available?

QWO is no longer available for patients interested in treating cellulite. QWO injectable treatment was the first injectable treatment for permanently getting rid of cellulite dimples on the buttocks. Cellulite treatment with QWO injections focused on the breakdown of fibrous bands that connect the skin to the underlying muscle and pull down on bulging fat cells to create the appearance of cellulite. The tension against the protruding fat cells was released by breaking up the fibrous bands, allowing for smoothing out of the skin. Additionally, QWO helped stimulate more collagen production in the skin to tighten and firm the skin. Unfortunately, QWO injections for cellulite reduction are no longer available to patients as of January 2023 amid concerns of excessive and prolonged bruising in the treatment area following injections. There is no longer any accessibility to QWO injections as the manufacturer has discontinued its production. Although QWO is no longer available as a cellulite reduction treatment, there are still many other treatment options for cellulite available at Dr. Michele Green’s private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, such as Thermage FLX and Sculptra injections.

Does liposuction work to remove cellulite?

Liposuction is an invasive procedure for excess fat removal that plastic surgeons perform in an operating room. With this type of plastic surgery procedure, the plastic surgeon uses a metallic rod, known as a cannula, to remove unwanted fat cells. This suction technique allows for increased total fat removal, improved sculpting in the treatment area, and a quicker recovery time. It is important to note that while liposuction treatment can effectively remove excess fat, it cannot improve the appearance of cellulite. In some cases, liposuction may even worsen the appearance of cellulite. If reducing or removing cellulite from a treatment area is the cosmetic goal of the patient, liposuction is not the recommended procedure. Instead, experts tend to recommend non-invasive procedures, such as laser treatments or injectable fillers.

Does CoolSculpting reduce the appearance of cellulite?

CoolSculpting is a revolutionary, effective treatment fat reduction method that utilizes cryolipolysis technology to freeze fat cells, leaving surrounding tissue undamaged. The body metabolizes the injured fat cells, resulting in a decrease in the overall amount of excess fat present in the treatment area. A typical session removes 25% of fat in a given treatment area. Many patients observe significant improvement after just one CoolSculpting session, while others may need additional sessions for further fat reduction. It is important that although CoolSculpting is a great treatment option for unwanted fat, it is not designed for weight loss. Ideal candidates for CoolSculpting are at or near their ideal body weight and are struggling with stubborn fat pockets that are unresponsive to exercise and diet. CoolSculpting is designed to eliminate excess fat cells and does not directly treat cellulite. However, some patients find that reducing fat in an area can help improve the appearance of mild cellulite. If you are unsure whether you may be a good candidate for a CoolSculpting procedure for cellulite reduction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green in her NYC Upper East Side dermatology office.

How to get rid of cellulite in the legs

Cellulite commonly appears on the thighs and the backs of the legs but can be easily addressed with procedures like Thermage FLX and Cellulaze. Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to heat the dermal layer of the skin, stimulating collagen production to tighten and firm the skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Cellulaze effectively destroys the fibrous bands that pull at the skin’s surface, creating a dimpled appearance on the legs. When you have your initial consultation with Dr. Green, the two of you will discuss your treatment options and create a custom treatment plan to address your needs best.

Will cellulite go away with exercise?

Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet can help shed extra pounds, ultimately leading to eliminating unwanted fat and improving cellulite. You should focus on exercises that target the areas of the body that are most prone to developing cellulite, such as the posterior thighs and buttocks. Exercise that tones the muscles and burns fat, such as cardio and strength training, will tighten the skin and help minimize the appearance of dimples that are characteristic of cellulite. A reduction in the overall amount of body fat with weight loss methods can often help improve the appearance of cellulite, although, unfortunately, this is not always the case.

Does red light therapy work for cellulite?

Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes low-wavelength red light for skin rejuvenation. It is believed to stimulate collagen production in the skin, which can enhance skin firmness and elasticity, as well as reduce the appearance of cellulite. However, there are few studies evaluating the effectiveness of red light therapy for cellulite reduction. Some studies indicate improvement in cellulite appearance, while others report no significant effects following treatment.

Does wood therapy treatment work for cellulite?

Wood therapy, also known as maderoterapia, is a technique for massaging the body using specialized wooden implements. Similar to dry brushing, these tools are believed to enhance circulation, facilitate fat breakdown, and promote lymphatic drainage, which can help reduce cellulite. Common side effects of wood therapy may include mild bruising, tenderness, or redness in the treated area. While limited evidence supports wood therapy’s effectiveness in treating cellulite, many people report seeing a temporary reduction in their cellulite after treatment.

Does cupping therapy work for cellulite?

Cupping therapy utilizes glass or silicone cups to create suction on the skin, promoting the drainage of fluids and toxins. It can also enhance circulation and blood flow, potentially reducing the appearance of cellulite temporarily. After the treatment, patients might notice bruising or marks on their skin, which will fade naturally. Limited research exists on the effectiveness of cupping therapy for cellulite reduction. If you are considering cellulite reduction, it is advisable to have the procedure performed by a healthcare professional to ensure safety.

Do cellulite massagers work?

Cellulite massagers are handheld devices that offer benefits similar to dry brushing and wood therapy. They stimulate underlying muscles and tissues to enhance blood circulation, support lymphatic drainage, and theoretically loosen fascia. They can be used two to three times per week. While it remains uncertain whether cellulite massagers can effectively reduce cellulite, many individuals report that regular use can temporarily plump the skin and reduce the appearance of dimpling.

Do cellulite creams work?

Cellulite creams improve the appearance of cellulite either by decreasing the water content of fat cells or by thickening the outer layer of the skin. Some of the most effective over-the-counter skincare for cellulite reduction are lotions and creams that contain ingredients such as caffeine, retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, and aminophylline. The success of these topical lotions depends largely on the severity of your cellulite. Unfortunately, for grades 2 and 3 cellulite, topical treatments may not be the best solution. Topical solutions may be useful for improving the appearance of grade 1 cellulite and can even help enhance some in-office cellulite treatments. While cellulite creams can help temporarily reduce cellulite’s appearance, in-office body contouring treatment options have proven to be more effective for reducing cellulite. A board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in NYC is an expert in non-invasive cosmetic treatment options for stimulating new collagen production and improving the appearance of dimpled skin texture.

What is the best treatment for cellulite on your legs?

Thermage is regarded as the gold standard for diminishing the appearance of cellulite and tightening the skin, and it is particularly effective for treating cellulite on the legs. Thermage employs radiofrequency energy to gently heat the dermis, stimulating collagen production in the treatment area. Thermage is comfortable and suitable for all skin types, requiring no pre-treatment or downtime. After just one session, patients can expect firmer, tighter skin and a noticeable reduction in cellulite for up to two years

How do I get started with cellulite treatment today?

Approximately 90% of individuals are affected by cellulite during their adult lives. For many, the sight of dimpled skin or an orange peel-like texture can trigger feelings of self-consciousness and contribute to low self-esteem. While many over-the-counter cellulite creams may temporarily enhance the appearance of cellulite, most patients will require a more robust approach for effective long-term reduction. Fortunately, several nonsurgical cellulite reduction treatment options are available at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office, designed to diminish cellulite with little to no downtime or side effects. If you’re disheartened by the appearance of cellulite and seek a method to achieve and maintain firm, smooth, healthy skin, Dr. Green is here to assist you.

Dr. Michele Green is a globally recognized expert and authority in cosmetic dermatology. With over two and a half decades of experience using treatments like Thermage and Sculptra for body rejuvenation, she is consistently acknowledged as one of New York City’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times, thanks to her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private NYC dermatology office, she will help you create a personalized treatment plan to reduce the appearance of cellulite and achieve tighter, firmer, smoother skin that endures. To begin your cellulite reduction journey, contact us online or call 212-535-3088 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Green and discover the best non-invasive cellulite treatment options available today.