What is cellulite?
Cellulite is the dimpled appearance of skin that some people, especially women, have on their hips, thighs, and buttocks. It is caused by fat deposits that push through the connective tissue under the skin, causing a bumpy look and feel. While cellulite is normal and does not indicate any medical issues, many people seek ways to reduce its appearance for cosmetic reasons.
Cellulite forms when the connective bands between the skin and muscle layers become rigid and tight. This causes fat cells to be pushed up against the skin, resulting in a lumpy look. Genetics, hormones, diet, lifestyle factors, and thinning skin can all contribute to someone developing cellulite. It is estimated that 80-90% of women have some degree of cellulite.
What causes cellulite?
There are several factors that contribute to the formation of cellulite:
– Hormones – Estrogen, insulin, thyroid hormones, and prolactin can affect the appearance of cellulite. Estrogen in particular plays a role in promoting fat storage.
– Genetics – Your genes can determine how your connective tissue is structured and how prone you are to cellulite. If your mother or grandmother had cellulite, you are more likely to get it too.
– Diet – Eating too many refined carbs and unhealthy fats promotes fat storage while also increasing inflammation. This can worsen cellulite.
– Lifestyle – Inactivity, high stress, smoking, and not drinking enough water can increase cellulite. Lack of muscle tone also makes cellulite more noticeable.
– Thin skin – As we age, skin loses collagen and becomes thinner. This allows cellulite to show through more easily.
How can Epsom salt help reduce cellulite?
Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is a popular remedy often used in baths to soothe sore muscles. However, it also has benefits when used topically on the skin. Here are some of the ways Epsom salt may improve the appearance of cellulite:
– Improves blood flow – Magnesium helps relax blood vessels and improve circulation. Better blood flow allows the body to more efficiently transport waste and mobilize fat stores.
– Reduces fluid retention – Epsom salt pulls fluid out from under the skin. This can reduce bloating and puffiness that exacerbates the bumpy look of cellulite.
– Exfoliates skin – The coarse texture of Epsom salt helps remove dead skin cells and reveal newer skin. This gives skin a smoother appearance.
– Draws out toxins – Some people believe that bathing in Epsom salt helps pull toxins out of the body. Removing impurities may have a positive effect on cellulite.
– Relaxes muscles – The magnesium in Epsom salt helps loosen up tense muscles when used in a bath. This includes the muscles in the hips and thighs.
How to use Epsom salt for cellulite
There are a few methods for using Epsom salt to reduce the appearance of cellulite:
Epsom Salt Bath
Take a warm bath with Epsom salt 2-3 times per week. Add 1-2 cups of Epsom salt to a standard size bathtub and soak for 15-20 minutes. The magnesium will begin entering your body through the skin within minutes. Make sure to stay well hydrated after the bath.
Epsom Salt Scrub
Mix equal parts Epsom salt and olive oil to form a grainy scrub. Apply it to areas prone to cellulite like the thighs, buttocks, and stomach. Massage gently using circular motions and then rinse off. The scrub will exfoliate and improve blood circulation.
Epsom Salt Cream
For a targeted cellulite cream, you can mix 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt with 1/4 cup of coconut oil or aloe vera gel. Apply this homemade cream to cellulite-prone areas and massage it in using a dry brush or loofah. Use this treatment 2-3 times per week.
Epsom Salt Wrap
For a full body treatment, do an Epsom salt wrap. Mix 2 cups Epsom salt with 1-2 tablespoons of baby oil and apply the mixture over your skin. Wrap yourself in plastic wrap or a towel to allow the salt to absorb for 20 minutes before rinsing off. Be careful not to get the salt near eyes or other sensitive areas.
Other tips for reducing cellulite
While Epsom salt can help, reducing cellulite also requires changes to your diet and lifestyle for best results:
– Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water to keep your skin supple and flush out toxins.
– Exercise – Do strength training to build muscle and cardio to burn fat. Target the thighs and glutes.
– Massage – Use a dry brush or cellulite massager to improve circulation.
– Eat clean – Avoid processed foods and load up on antioxidants from fruits, veggies, and anti-inflammatory fats.
– Manage stress – High cortisol worsens cellulite, so try yoga, meditation, or massage.
– Wear compression – Compression garments can help smooth out the appearance of cellulite.
– Avoid smoking – Smoking restricts blood vessels and damages collagen. Both worsen cellulite.
Conclusion
Cellulite is extremely common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with it if you find it unsightly. Using Epsom salt is an affordable, easy way to help reduce the bumpy look thanks to its many skin and circulation boosting benefits when used topically or in a bath. Combine Epsom salt treatments with a healthy diet, exercise, hydration and other cellulite-busting techniques for the best results. Be patient and consistent, as it may take a couple months to notice improvements. But sticking with it can give you smoother, firmer looking skin over time.
| Method | How to Use | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Epsom Salt Bath | Add 1-2 cups Epsom salt to bath and soak for 15-20 minutes 2-3 times per week | Improves blood flow and circulation, reduces fluid retention, exfoliates skin |
| Epsom Salt Scrub | Mix equal parts Epsom salt and olive oil. Gently massage onto cellulite-prone areas and rinse. | Exfoliates, increases blood flow, improves circulation |
| Epsom Salt Cream | Combine Epsom salt with coconut oil or aloe. Massage into skin using dry brush or loofah 2-3 times per week. | Exfoliates, boosts circulation, hydrates skin |
| Epsom Salt Wrap | Apply Epsom salt and baby oil mixture to skin. Wrap in plastic and allow salt to absorb for 20 minutes before rinsing. | Draws out toxins, reduces fluid retention and puffiness |
Cellulite forms when fat deposits push through the connective tissue under the skin. Epsom salt may help reduce the appearance of cellulite in several ways:
– Improves blood flow and circulation
– Helps reduce fluid retention and puffiness
– Exfoliates and smooths the skin’s texture
– Draws out toxins from the body
– Relaxes tight, tense muscles in the thighs and buttocks
The magnesium in Epsom salt is what provides these beneficial effects on circulation and muscle relaxation. To use Epsom salts for cellulite, try taking Epsom salt baths 2-3 times per week, making an Epsom salt scrub or cream to massage onto areas prone to cellulite, or doing full body Epsom salt wraps.
Be sure to also follow a healthy diet, exercise, stay hydrated, and manage your stress. Combining Epsom salt with other lifestyle measures for cellulite reduction will provide longer lasting results. While it takes time, consistency with using Epsom salts and other treatments can smooth out the appearance of cellulite.