What Is Cellulite - Causes, Reality, and Modern Treatment Options

This updated guide explains what cellulite is, why it's so common in women, and the realistic range of treatments today. Healthy diet and strength training can reduce visibility but not reliably eliminate cellulite. Topical creams give temporary benefit. Noninvasive devices (radiofrequency, ultrasound, laser) and mechanical massage offer short- to medium-term improvement. More durable options include enzymatic injections (Qwo) and subcision procedures; many other injections and mesotherapy lack strong evidence. Consult a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to weigh benefits, risks, and maintenance needs.

What is cellulite?

Cellulite is a common, harmless cosmetic condition in which fat deposits and tethering of connective tissue create a dimpled or "orange-peel" texture on the skin. It most often appears on the thighs, buttocks, and hips. Hormones, genetics, fat distribution, and skin structure all influence how visible cellulite becomes.

How common is it?

Most postpubertal women will develop some degree of cellulite. Estimates typically cite a high prevalence among adult women (often reported as 80-90%), while men are less affected because of differences in fat distribution and connective-tissue structure.

Lifestyle first: realistic expectations

No lifestyle change reliably eliminates cellulite, but healthy habits can reduce its appearance and improve skin tone. A balanced diet and regular exercise help lower overall body fat and build muscle beneath areas affected by cellulite. Strength training that targets the thighs and glutes can improve contour and make dimples less noticeable.

Hydration, a nutritious diet that supports skin health, and avoiding rapid weight fluctuations also help. Topical creams (retinoids, caffeine, peptides) may offer temporary tightening or improved texture, but evidence of lasting change is limited.

Professional, noninvasive options

A range of noninvasive in-office devices use radiofrequency, ultrasound, or laser energy to heat tissues, stimulate collagen, and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Mechanical massage techniques (for example, Endermologie-style treatments) can temporarily redistribute fluid and smooth the skin, but results usually fade without maintenance.

Minimally invasive treatments with stronger evidence

Some minimally invasive procedures provide more durable improvement. Enzymatic injections (brand name Qwo) are FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe cellulite on the buttocks of adult women and work by breaking down certain fibrous septae. Subcision techniques - where a provider releases the fibrous bands tethering the skin - can also produce longer-lasting smoothing; several devices for subcision are available and some are FDA-cleared¹.

Treatments to approach cautiously

Mesotherapy and many off-label injection mixes (for example, aminophylline or homeopathic concoctions) lack consistent, high-quality evidence. Aggressive or unregulated procedures carry risk of scarring, contour irregularities, or infection.

Choosing a provider and making a plan

Discuss goals and risks with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon experienced in cellulite treatment. Expect honest counseling: no treatment guarantees permanent elimination, and many approaches require maintenance. Ask about published results, side effects, recovery time, and realistic outcomes for your skin type.

Bottom line

Cellulite is a normal, benign condition. Lifestyle measures, topical products, energy-based devices, enzymatic injections, and subcision techniques can improve appearance to varying degrees, but results vary and maintenance is often required. Prioritize safety and consult a qualified clinician for tailored advice.

1. Confirm prevalence estimate commonly cited as 80-90% of postpubertal women and update if needed.
2. Verify which subcision devices are currently FDA-cleared and their specific clearance details.