How to Diminish Cellulite While Giving Your Self-Confidence a Boost

POPSUGAR Photography | Kat Borchart
POPSUGAR Photography | Kat Borchart

Just about all women have it, and whether genetics has blessed you with a little more than you'd like, cellulite is just one of those things we have to embrace. What causes that dimply, orange-peel-looking flesh? It happens when fat cells push up against our skin and the fibrous tissue that connects our skin to our muscle pulls down, and we're left with that signature bumpy skin. Although you can't get rid of cellulite completely, here are some simple things you can do to reduce its appearance.

Melt Away Fat With Cardio
POPSUGAR Photography | Ericka McConnell

Melt Away Fat With Cardio

Cellulite is a type of fat, and the tried-and-true way to get rid of fat is to burn it off. Intense cardio workouts such as running, cycling, hiking up hills, or taking cardio classes are your greatest weapon. Note that it may take several months to decrease your overall percentage of body fat and notice a difference in your skin's appearance.

Tone Up
POPSUGAR Photography | Kat Borchart

Tone Up

Once you decrease the fat on your body, tone strong, lean muscle by doing strength-training moves that target trouble spots. Try this video that tones the hamstrings and glutes, or grab your mat and move through this leg- and core-strengthening yoga sequence to improve the tone of your muscles, which will help make your legs, tush, and abs appear smoother. This 30-minute video workout combines cardio with strength training for an effective and fun workout.

Eat Right
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Eat Right

Of course, eating a healthy diet goes hand in hand with maintaining a healthy weight. The less fat you have on your body, the less cellulite appears. Eat a diet rich in fruits and veggies, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains.

Stay Hydrated
POPSUGAR Photography | Jae Payne

Stay Hydrated

Reducing the appearance of dimply skin is as simple as drinking a glass of nature's beverage. Staying hydrated improves the texture of your skin because it helps your body release excess fluid it may be holding on to.

Get Your ZZZ's
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Get Your ZZZ's

Getting enough rest every night is good for your heart, prevents you from getting sick, lowers your risk of high blood pressure, and helps with weight loss. That's not all shut-eye is good for — getting regular quality sleep also helps with cellulite. Aim for at least seven to eight hours a night.

Embrace It!
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Embrace It!

Although you can take care of yourself by eating right, exercising, and getting enough rest, nothing is going to make cellulite completely disappear. So here's an idea — embrace it! Don't spend your time obsessing over what you wish your tush and thighs looked like. Just slip on that bathing suit and enjoy that beautiful day. Keep in mind that 80 percent of women have cellulite (thanks to genes and the fact that you're a woman), so if you feel nervous, just close your eyes and summon the power of all women, and you'll feel much more confident slipping off your cover-up.