What causes cellulite?
Cellulite develops through the structure of the skin and the tissues beneath it. Fibrous bands can pull the surface down while surrounding tissue pushes upwards, creating dents or ripples.
Hormones, genetics, skin thickness and age affect its appearance. Cellulite is common in women and can occur at a healthy weight, including in people who exercise regularly. It is not a sign that you are unfit.
What does cellulite look like?
Cellulite may look like shallow ripples, deeper dimples or an orange-peel texture. It is commonly noticed on the thighs, buttocks and hips, and can appear different when sitting, standing or tightening the muscles.
Cellulite is usually harmless. New pain, heat, redness or swelling should be medically assessed rather than treated as an ordinary cosmetic concerns.
Cellulite and loose skin need different treatment goals
Dimpling can appear alongside loose skin or a localised fat pocket. A useful assessment identifies which feature is most noticeable and what the proposed treatment can realistically change.
Fat reduction alone does not reliably improve cellulite. Equally, firmer skin does not necessarily mean that deeper dimples will disappear. We explain whether your plan is intended to improve the cellulite’s appearance, address laxity or support a separate contouring goal, so you can decide whether the likely benefit is worthwhile.