Josh Labrooy

For most women, cellulite is a pesky reality of life. Cellulite, or dimpled skin, on your thighs and butt (and other places) never seems to go away, no matter what you do. From natural remedies like exercise and healthy diet can help reduce the signs of cellulite, but it won’t make cellulite go away for good.

Although cellulite is totally natural and over 90% of women will experience it at some point in their life, there are effective and easy ways to reduce the look of dimpled skin and stop it from recurring. 

One of those top tricks? A cellulite massager. Before delving into which massagers are the best, it’s important to distinguish what exactly cellulite is and why it occurs.

What is cellulite? 

Cellulite is a condition in which the skin has a dimpled, lumpy appearance. It usually affects the buttocks and thighs but can also occur in other areas. The condition occurs when fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin. 

Cellulite appears as a result from the interaction between the connective tissue in the dermatological layer that lies just below the surface of the skin, and the layer of fat just below that. In women, fat cells and connective tissue in this layer are arranged vertically and if the fat cells protrude into the layer of skin, this gives the appearance of cellulite. This has often been nicknamed ‘orange peel skin’ due to its lumpy appearance. 

How do you get rid of cellulite? 

It’s always important to remember, even when considering a massager to reduce the look and appearance of cellulite, that the skin condition can come down to genetic factors. The common condition can be caused by hormones, diet and lifestyle choices including smoking, as well as genetic factors.

Fat, salt and carbohydrate-rich diets are also believed to contribute to cellulite, and those with a non-active lifestyle are thought to be at higher-risk. Again, a person’s genetic makeup also contributes to cellulite formation. 

When it comes to cellulite massagers, the devices can range from expensive to affordable, depending on the type of treatment you’re looking for. From high-tech infrared systems to easy, affordable brushes and mats aimed at ridding the body of dead skin cells, there are a range of cellulite massagers to choose from.

What are cellulite massagers?

First, what exactly are cellulite massagers and what do they do? Certain types of massage, especially deep tissue massage, have been known to help break-up fat deposits under the skin and help smooth the appearance of cellulite. This is the main idea behind an at home cellulite massager, which aims to break down fat deposits to create an overall smooth look. 

Investing in a cellulite massager is a great idea for those looking for effective, easy and safe ways to reduce the appearance of cellulite, as well as prevent it from recurring. Some cellulite massagers have rubber shaped knobs, while others are smooth in appearance, that you rub onto the skin. First, you’ll want to apply a massage oil on the skin, or if you like, a specific and targeted cellulite cream, and massage onto the skin for five minutes or more.

Using this type of massager will stimulate circulation deep in your skin and break down cellulite slowly. This method is by no means a quick fix, and it’s not something that can be done periodically. If you are wanting to see tangible results, you will need to commit to a schedule and stick to it.  

What about body brushes?

As well as massagers, body brushing is a great way to reduce the look of cellulite – which is why a highly-rated body brush makes the below list. Body brushing is a treatment using a firm bristle brush that helps exfoliate dead cells from the surface of the skin, leaving behind smooth looking skin.

The popular treatment, which includes massaging the skin with thick bristles, is also thought to aid the body’s natural lymphatic drainage and circulation in the deeper layers of the skin. Some research suggests that body brushing is a great treatment for cellulite, especially when paired with targeted cellulite creams and oils. 

What oil should you use with your massager? 

To get the most out of your cellulite massager, its best to couple it with a cellulite cream or oil for extra targeting. Its best to look out for creams that contain collagen, as they are known to reduce the signs of cellulite. However, any on the market that are targeted toward cellulite are great – which will help aid in reduction of dimpled skin. Some of most highly-rated creams include the Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, the Clarins Body Fit Anti-Cellulite Contouring Expert, and the Nivea Skin Firming & Toning Gel-Cream.

Essential oils have also been known to work wonders for cellulite, especially when coupled with a massager. Best essential oils for cellulite include cedarwood, lemon, grapefruit, mandarin, cypress, lemongrass, fennel, juniper, lavender, geranium, and rosemary.

The Top Ten Best Cellulite Massagers

Assome! Ultrasonic Massager, $463

The Assome! Ultrasonic Massager, developed in the UK, combines three cutting edge technologies – LED, radiofrequency and ultrasonic waves to fight cellulite and help lift and firm thighs and butt, all from the comfort from home. Each of the three functions has a high and low setting, with it being recommended that you start slow and work your way up to the high setting. 

At first glance, the small metal contraption doesn’t look like your average massager out there, but don’t let that fool you. Many women have noted that after using the device several times a week, results were evident after just a month. Many noted a noticeable difference in texture and tone also.  

Anti Cellulite Cup with Cellulite Massager, $26.95

A cellulite massager doesn’t have to cost the world, which is exactly why the anti-cellulite cup with cellulite massager is so highly rated. Get rid of cellulite without it costing a fortune and reap the benefits of silicone cupping therapy, which helps flush away toxins and fat cells – leaving behind smooth skin. These silicone cups don’t require heat like glass cups do, meaning you won’t bruise or scar when doing it. The rubber massager also compliments the cupping technique by helping cleanse deep tissue and exfoliate the skin. 

Regular massaging with the vacuum suction cups, as well as maintaining a good and healthy diet and exercising regularly, helps to achieve smoother, healthier skin. The technique works by flushing away toxins, removing fat formed beneath the skin that’s causing cellulite. The massager features quality medical grade soft and hypoallergenic silicone that’s safe for use on sensitive skin. 

Boseen Palm Shaped 360 degree Metal Roller Massager, $14.10  

The Boseen palm shaped 360-degree metal roller massager is one of the top rated cellulite reducing massagers on the market. It features a palm shaped glove with rotating balls for effective treatment of lumpy skin. This massager is also a great solution for tense skin, and those wanting a relaxing treatment. The product comes equipped with nine 360-degree rollers, allowing you to massage just about anywhere on your body. This massager is great coupled with a targeted cellulite cream. 

Cupping Therapy Kit by Smooth with Cellulite Massager Anti Cellulite, $19.97

This great machine is for anyone who needs some help battling pesky cellulite without the whopping price tag. The slimming device comes with a suction cup for an added boost to the lymphatic draining process. This device slots easily into your hand, is incredibly easy to use and can be used everywhere from legs to face to back to stomach. There are two intensity settings, with the high setting best for thigh and buttocks area, while the low is best for sensitive areas. The device does require a power source, which can make using it a little tricky if you want to move around or don’t have a comfortable area near a socket. This machine works wonders if you add a body oil or cellulite cream ten to twenty minutes prior to treatment. 

Ultrasound Cavitation Ems Body Slimming Massager, $60.79

The Ultrasound Cavitation Ems Body Slimming Massager is unique to most other cellulite massagers out there. The device helps you reduce weight, tone and smooth skin by delivering infrared light into your body cells and tissues in the form of heat. The heat not only helps enhance massage effect, but also increases the blood circulation within an area. As a result the cells and tissues receive the required oxygen and nutrients. Fat deposits are then broken down and eliminated by the body. 

In terms of reducing cellulite, the ultrasonic waves aim to turn fat cells into free fatty acids, which are easier for the body to dispose of. The technology tones and tightens skin, without causing any pain. The machine essentially fragments body tissue with low fibre content, while leaving the tissue structures around it intact. To get the most out of your treatment its also best to drink plenty of water, maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. 

SweetCheeks Cellulite Matt, $139 

The SweetCheeks cellulite massage matt temporarily reduces the appearance of cellulite, increases circulation and relieves aches and pains – all while sitting down. This device aims to use a person’s body weight to help reduce the signs of cellulite. Extended daily use of SweetCheeks is proven to dramatically transform cellulite appearance on your buttocks and upper thighs. The whole idea of SweetCheeks, is that when you sit on it for at least 30 minutes a day, the textured surface massages and boosts circulation in your skin and diminishes the appearance of lumpy skin. Albeit not the most comfortable of cellulite massagers, it requires little to no effort at all. 

HoMedics Cellulite Massager, $49.95

 There’s a reason HoMedics is one of the brands with the highest-rated massagers, with reliable, efficient and affordable machines aimed at targeting skin conditions like cellulite. Get ready to massage those pesky dimples away with the HoMedics Cellulite Massager. This small handheld massager is easy to use anywhere on your body and comes with three different attachments to help stimulate blood flow. Starting your journey to smooth skin is made simple with this easy device, which promotes circulation and breaks down fat cells to be elimated for good from the body.  

Redecker Anti Cellulite Massage Brush, $49.95

Redecker’s waxed beechwood Anti Cellulite Massage Brush, although not the fanciest of massagers, features wood pins and a cotton belt designed for effective and easy spot treatment of cellulite. The firm pins massage the affected area increasing blood circulation, oxygen and nutrients while loosening toxins and fat deposits underneath the skin. Couple with a cellulite cream following brushing, and you’ve got an effective cellulite plan. After using the massage brush, its best to rinse in tepid water and dry at room temperature. 

Handheld Body Massager Fat Burner Infrared Anti Cellulite – 4 Massage Heads, $32.95

This electric fat burner body massager is a high-quality professional lipo-modelling system that effectively fights cellulite at home. It’s easy to handle and can target any part of the body. The massager aims to increase blood flow, helps eliminate toxins, reduces accumulated fat and smooths the skin. The massager also comes with four different heads to target specific areas – a roller head for arms and legs, a finger head for your back, a ball head for the belly and abdomen and a wave head best used for the neck. This massager can be used together with anti-cellulite products for a more powerful effect.

Beurer Rechargeable 2-in-1 Infrared Handheld Body Massager, $199

The Beurer rechargeable 2-in-1 handheld body massager uses strong and rhythmic tapping movements that can penetrate deep into your muscle’s layers, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing massage therapy that also aims to penetrate deep into the skin. The small handheld device is simple and easy to use, has various settings and can be used easily at home. The Beurer device is also highly-rated for its long battery life of over two hours, making the commitment to cellulite remove easy and hassle-free. 

Cellulite is a perfectly natural occurrence, with between 80 and 90 percent of women experiencing the skin condition at some point in their lives. Although there is nothing wrong with it, most women (and some men) have found effective and easy ways to both reduce the signs of cellulite and prevent it from appearing or recurring.

It can be a tricky thing to shift completely, but by following a few simple steps you can reduce cellulite and minimise its appearance for good. 

First, it’s important to distinguish what cellulite actually is and why it occurs in the first place. Cellulite is the result of fat under the skin protruding into the dermis, the layer of the skin just below the epidermis or outermost layer. Within that outer layer is a network of connective tissue that looks like a honeycomb, or the peel of an orange like many associate cellulite with. As fat cells increase in size, the connective tissue within this layer weakens and fat bulges through, giving the skin that dimpled appearance. 

It’s always important to remember that cellulite is a natural skin condition and its appearance and placement on the skin can be down to genetic factors. Cellulite can also be caused by hormones, diet and lifestyle with formations thought to be linked to estrogen, insulin and prolactin hormones. Fat, salt and carbohydrate-rich diets are also believed to contribute to cellulite, and those with a non-active lifestyle are thought to be at higher-risk of developing it. 

Again, genetics play a key part as certain genes are required for cellulite formation. So, in simple terms if your parents have had cellulite, most likely you will too at some point. That being said, there are ways to minimise its appearance and reduce its recorruence. 

Below, 5 simple hacks to get rid of cellulite. 

1. Get Rid Of Cellulite With A Body Brush

Body brushing has long been praised as an effective and efficient method of minimising the look of cellulite. First off, what exactly is body brushing? It’s exactly as it sounds – a treatment using a firm bristle brush to help exfoliate dead cells from the surface of the skin. The skin treatment is also thought to help enhance lymphatic drainage and circulation in the deeper layers of the skin. 

Many studies have shown that body brushing or cellulite massage can be a more effective treatment to cellulite than specific toning exercises and specialised cellulite creams. Body brushing is believed to work because it stimulates the body’s circulation and that, in turn, kick starts a person’s lymphatic drainage system. Toxins, which can build up in your layers of fat are therefore become eliminated waste. 

A body brush is best used three times a week, followed by a cellulite cream. 

2. Get Rid Of Cellulite With Exercise

Cellulite occurs when connective fibres underneath the skin become weak or lose their elasticity, but regular stretching and strengthening of those areas – as well as burning away excess fat overall – can help get rid of the condition for good. That’s why exercise is arguably one of the most effective ways to treat cellulite (and keep it from reappearing). Firming and toning the muscles that are affected by cellulite will tighten your skin and give the illusion that cellulite is less noticeable. Yoga and pilates routines, specifically ones that target the butts and thighs, can also help in building muscle and boosting circulation. 

Focusing on targeted areas such as thighs, hips and buttocks – using exercises such as thigh raises, high kicks, squats and various other leg exercises – will treat the affected area. These exercises can all be done at home too, so it’s easy to add into your routine either in the morning or at night.

3. Get Rid Of Cellulite With Your Diet

One of the main causes of cellulite is believed to be caused by diet. Those that eat fatty and salty diets are believed to be at higher risk of developing cellulite. For those wanting to reduce cellulite, making a few diet changes can make a big difference in the long run. Salt encourages fat cells to swell, in turn, making them more pronounced on the skin. Watching your sodium intake is a good way to keep those levels down. Also eating plenty of detoxifying fibre-rich and whole grain foods. Consuming foods that are high in nutrients, such as whole grains, beans, lean meats, fish, low-fat dairy products, fruits and vegetables is also good at reducing cellulite. 

Lifestyle factors are also at play, so quitting habits like smoking and excessive drinking will cut your risk of developing cellulite. Research shows that cigarette smoke can weaken the formation of collagen, the main structural component of connective tissue, making cellulite more visible. It will also help your general health too. 

4. Get Rid Of Cellulite With Collagen Creams

Collagen is by no means a new or groundbreaking product when it comes to skin conditions, as it is an important protein used to make connective tissue in the skin. Besides keeping your skin healthy and glowing, collagen may also help improve the appearance of stubborn cellulite that just won’t go away. Most targeted cellulite creams contain collagen. 

5. Get Rid Of Cellulite By Controlling Your Hormones

One proven way to rid your body of unwanted cellulite is by controlling your hormones. Estrogen balance is key when it comes to achieving and maintaining fat loss, and it is also one of the main causes behind cellulite appearance. When estrogen levels fluctuate, it reduces blood circulation to the connective tissues, weakening them in the process – in turn, creating a dimpled appearance. The best way to maintain estrogen levels is to maintain a healthy diet with lots of fibre and consuming healthy bacteria. 

While all these methods are a sure way to reduce the appearance of cellulite, it is also important to remember that the condition is a natural occurrence that is part of life, and that sometimes it can’t be helped. Cellulite is, after all, seen on over 90 per cent of women.