Cellulite Reduction: what it is and how we help

Cellulite at a glance

Cellulite is the dimpled, orange-peel texture of skin most often seen on the thighs, hips and buttocks. It affects up to nine in ten women after puberty, whatever their size, and is not a medical problem. It happens because fibrous bands under the skin pull down while fat cells push up, and it is influenced by hormones, genetics, circulation, fluid retention and skin thickness.

What makes cellulite more visible?

• Hormonal changes, including pregnancy and menopause
• Genetics and skin thinning with age
• Weight gain and loss of muscle tone
• Fluid retention and sluggish circulation
• Long periods of sitting

Can cellulite be removed?

No treatment removes cellulite permanently. Several approaches can improve its appearance, and results are best when treatment is combined with strength training and a healthy weight, then maintained.

Cellulite treatments: which work best?

There is no single best cellulite treatment for everyone. The options fall into a few groups, and most give a visible but temporary improvement that needs maintenance:

• Mechanical massage, such as LPG Endermologie, which uses motorised rollers and gentle suction to stimulate the skin and tissue. It is non-invasive and one of the most studied cellulite treatments.
• Energy-based devices, including laser, radiofrequency and acoustic wave treatments, which aim to heat or stimulate the tissue. Results vary between people and devices, and Omnia does not offer them.
• Minimally invasive procedures, such as subcision, which release the fibrous bands under the skin. Results can last longer, but there is more risk, cost and recovery time.
• Creams containing caffeine or retinol, which may slightly improve the look of the skin with months of regular use.

Whatever you choose, strength training and a stable weight make results look better and last longer. To understand why dimpling appears in the first place, see what causes cellulite.

Cellulite treatment in Chiswick, London

• LPG Endermologie: the Cellu M6 Infinity mechanically stimulates the skin and tissue; LPG's own studies report smoother skin and improved firmness over a course. Try the £99 Discovery Session (60 minutes), with follow-up sessions from £70.
• Manual lymphatic drainage and compression therapy: to reduce fluid retention that makes cellulite look worse. Manual lymphatic drainage from £65 and Body Ballancer compression from £45 for 30 minutes.
• Styku 3D scan: measures circumference changes so progress is objective. £50 per scan.
• Fitness and nutrition: building lower body muscle improves the look of the skin surface.

What does the evidence say?

Evidence for most cellulite treatments shows temporary improvement that needs maintenance. We are honest about that. New to the treatment? Start with what Endermologie is, then read does LPG Endermologie really work for cellulite? and is LPG Endermologie safe?

Why do slim people get cellulite?

Cellulite is not only about weight. It depends largely on the structure of the skin and the fibrous bands beneath it, which differ between men and women and are shaped by genetics and hormones. Slim people with thinner skin or less muscle tone can have visible cellulite, while some people with more body fat have very little.

Does diet or exercise get rid of cellulite?

No diet or exercise removes cellulite completely. Losing excess body fat and building muscle in the legs and glutes can make the skin surface look smoother, and staying hydrated and eating less salty food can reduce puffiness. Rapid weight loss can sometimes make skin looser and cellulite more visible.

How many Endermologie sessions will I need?

A typical course is around 10 to 12 sessions, often once or twice a week, followed by occasional maintenance sessions to hold the result. Many people notice smoother, firmer-feeling skin partway through a course. Results vary, and we explain what is realistic for you at your first appointment.

What to expect at Omnia

Your first visit covers your goals, health history and any concerns, followed by circumference measurements or a Styku 3D scan so progress can be tracked. We recommend a plan that may combine LPG Endermologie, lymphatic drainage or compression with strength training advice, and we re-measure during the course. We are always honest about what each treatment can and cannot do.

What you can do at home

• Strength train the legs and glutes two or three times a week
• Stay hydrated and limit very salty food
• Break up long periods of sitting
• Moisturise daily; firmer skin shows dimpling less
• Dry brushing or a handheld massager can briefly reduce puffiness, but no home cellulite treatment changes the structure beneath the skin

For what genuinely helps and what does not, see our guide to how to get rid of cellulite.

Related: body contouring and fluid retention.

Cellulite treatment is available at Omnia Lifestyle, 8 to 9 Bedford Corner, The Avenue, Chiswick W4 1LZ, close to Turnham Green station, on bus routes 94, E3 and 272. Limited parking is available on request when booking. Book online or call 020 4515 0000.