MYTH

Some over-the-counter cellulite creams promise to aid in the removal of toxins and impurities from the body. However, neither their effectiveness nor their assertions regarding what causes cellulite are backed up by scientific evidence. Rather, cellulite develops when fat deposits beneath the skin begin to press through layers of collagen fibers, or connective tissue (often in the buttocks and thigh areas, but also on arms, stomachs, and other common trouble spots, as well).

Hormones, a lack of exercise and muscle tone, extra weight, and poor circulation can all impair connective tissue.

FACT

Women have more fat around their hips and thighs than men. They also have less connective tissue to hold everything together. However, it is estimated that roughly 10% of men suffer from cellulite as well.

FACT

Cellulite appears to be influenced by hormones as well: as women age, their bodies generate less estrogen, a hormone that helps blood vessels flow smoothly. Less estrogen can lead to a reduction in new collagen formation and the breakdown of existing connective tissue due to inadequate circulation.

FACT

It's true that cellulite runs in families; if your mother and grandmother had it, you're more likely to get it as well. Take hope if you don't have smooth-skinned relatives: genetics is only one piece of the cellulite puzzle; other factors such as food, exercise, and keeping a healthy weight also play a role.

MYTH

Cellulite is more visible if you're overweight; the more fat you have beneath your skin, the more probable it is to put stress on your connective tissue and bulge out of its weak points. Women of all shapes and sizes, however, can develop cellulite. Even those who are slender, exercise often, and eat carefully might develop cellulite.

FACT

Although regular exercise will not cure cellulite, it can often help to prevent or lessen its development. Cellulite develops when the connective fibers beneath the skin weaken or lose their flexibility, but stretching and strengthening those areas (along with burning excess fat) can help. Firming and toning those muscles tightens the skin, creating the appearance that cellulite is less visible.

MYTH

Yes, wearing compression-style leggings while exercising can help lessen thigh jiggle, but it's only a temporary solution. In reality, some tight clothing can really contribute to the appearance of cellulite by cutting off circulation and limiting blood flow. Elastic bands on underwear, for example, can actually contribute to the appearance of cellulite by cutting off circulation and limiting blood flow.

MYTH

Running or other forms of cardio can help you maintain a healthy weight, which can help you avoid dimples and dents. Strength training, on the other hand, is required to truly smooth out your skin. Adults who undertook three 30-minute aerobic workouts each week for eight weeks dropped four pounds but gained little muscle, according to a study conducted by researchers at the South Shore YMCA in Quincy, Massachusetts. However, they shed 10 pounds of fat, gained two pounds of muscle, and observed a better overall improvement in body composition when they combined 15 minutes of aerobic activity with 15 minutes of strength training three times a week. To put it another way, they looked better and lost some jiggle!

FACT

Although a well-balanced, plant-heavy diet cannot predict whether or not you will develop cellulite, it can help you maintain a healthy weight by reducing inflammation throughout your body. Staying hydrated, whether through drinking water or eating plenty of high-water-content meals, will keep your connective tissue healthy and supple, and may even help you lose weight. Eat more cucumbers, radishes, tomatoes, and bell peppers, which contain more than 90% water (along with many other fruits and vegetables).

FACT

For several years, laser, radio-frequency, and massage treatments have been employed to minimize the appearance of cellulite and while the benefits aren't permanent, they do work in the short term. Some treatments require 10 to 15 sessions to noticeably improve look, with follow-up consultations required on a monthly basis. Others are more expensive, but the effects appear to persist six to twelve months.