One of the most effective ways to get rid of cellulite is massage. This tonic SPA procedure, which involves influencing problem areas, is designed to significantly speed up metabolic processes and reduce hypertrophied fat cells. In the arsenal of modern cosmetology there are many different methods of hardware, mechanical and reflex effects that help reduce or completely eliminate the unaesthetic “orange peel”. Based on reviews of effectiveness, safety and atraumaticity, a review of the most popular anti-cellulite techniques was compiled. But to get an idea of the principle of their operation, it is necessary to understand the essence of the problem itself.
What is cellulite?
From a physiological point of view, cellulite is not a pathology, but a cosmetic defect. Loose, deformed skin, localized mainly in the buttocks, thighs, knees and abdomen, is called “gynoid lipodystrophy” in medical terminology. This degenerative-dystrophic change in subcutaneous fat occurs in 80-90% of different races and nationalities. Moreover, this problem is most acute in those countries where food products contain large amounts of saturated fat.
The main cause of cellulite is hypertrophy of fat cells (adipocytes). It entails disturbances in the microcirculation of tissue fluid and compaction of connective tissue fibers. One of the gender differences in the female body is the ability of adipocytes to accumulate energy (in the form of fat droplets). With increased nutrition, fat cells begin to swell, creating an obstacle to normal lymph circulation. As a result, stagnation develops, a change in the collagen structure occurs, and the skin begins to take on the appearance of the notorious “orange peel.” In particularly advanced cases, hardened fibrous tissue can compress nerve endings, leading to noticeable pain. However, such a problem is an exception to the rule and is quite rare.
Interesting fact! In an adult who has reached the age of 20, the number of adipocytes remains unchanged. And even with significant weight gain or loss, only their volume changes.
Due to the fact that degenerative-dystrophic changes leading to deformation of the skin relief occur gradually, it is customary to distinguish 4 stages of cellulite:
- detection of “orange peel” only when pressed;
- the appearance of irregularities that are visible even without pressure;
- decreased elasticity, increased tuberosity, slight roughening of the skin;
- distinct knobbiness, the formation of large (conglomerate) bumps and depressions, due to impaired microcirculation of blood flow, the appearance of pain, pallor or cyanosis of the skin.
More information about the stages and causes of cellulite can be found here.
From all of the above, the conclusion suggests itself that when choosing an anti-cellulite program, first of all, the severity of hypertrophic changes in the subcutaneous fat layer should be taken into account.
Is it possible to win the battle against cellulite?
Cellulite, recognized as the main “enemy” of a beautiful body, is quite difficult to correct. But this does not mean at all that it is useless to fight him. However, in order to get a real visible result, you need to mobilize all your strength and try to minimize the effect of provoking factors.
First of all, it is recommended to give up bad habits that increase the likelihood of cellulite. These include smoking and excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. Regular intake of nicotine and ethanol into the body slows down blood circulation and significantly impairs metabolic processes. Such pathological dependencies, combined with poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle, affect the condition of the skin and the aesthetics of the body.
Of course, just following the above rules will not help get rid of the hated “orange peel”. But in combination with regular performance of special massage procedures, it allows you to achieve the desired effect.
French Riviera
Southern Brittany is famous for its seaside resorts. It was from this region that the fashion for thalassotherapy came - treatment by the sea. Swimming in pools with water of various chemical compositions, wraps based on algae, clay and plankton, salt caves and saunas lined with sea minerals... To enjoy all these procedures “in the original”, you don’t have to fly to France. Living mud and natural sea water from this region are delivered to thalasso centers around the world.
Result
Sea baths relieve fatigue, relieve stress and strengthen the immune system. Thalasso wraps give the skin elasticity and tone. Algae masks reduce puffiness and improve the condition of the skin of the eyelids.
Spa at home
A warm bath with sea salt is the best way to relieve the nervous tension that has accumulated during the day. If you add a few drops of your favorite aroma oil to the salt, your relaxation session will be even more effective.
The principle of action of anti-cellulite massage
Almost without exception, all massage methods aimed at combating cellulite involve deep treatment of the subcutaneous fat layer of problem areas of the body. In this case, only the hypodermis is affected, without affecting the muscles. It is aimed at achieving the following goals:
- activation of peripheral blood circulation and microcirculation;
- local stimulation of the lymphatic system;
- facilitating the removal of “stagnant” fluid;
- strengthening metabolic processes;
- acceleration of fat burning and, as a result, reduction in the size of fat cells;
- stimulation of the synthesis of neo-elastin and neo-collagen.
Of course, to obtain a visual effect from anti-cellulite therapy, more than one session will be required. In this situation, the number of massage procedures will directly depend not only on the severity of cellulite, but also on the individual characteristics of the body.
When and what results should you expect?
The appearance of a visible effect from massage sessions depends on the number of procedures performed, on the quality and technique of execution, and on the skill of the specialist. Self-massage at home gives positive results only after two or three weeks of regular use, and salon procedures using hardware techniques allow you to see the effect after just a few sessions.
Types of anti-cellulite massage
To combat gynoid lipodystrophy, 3 massage techniques are used: manual, hardware and combined. In turn, each of them is divided into several types.
Manual massage:
- manual with the addition of pharmacy or homemade anti-cellulite scrubs (coffee, honey, sea salt, essential oils, cinnamon, etc.);
- vacuum (can);
- dry rubbing (with a massage brush, roller massager or mitten).
Hardware anti-cellulite massage:
- aqua massage;
- vibration massage;
- pneumomassage;
- ultrasonic;
- LPG massage.
Each of the above anti-cellulite techniques has its own advantages and disadvantages, indications and contraindications. Therefore, before you start fighting the “orange peel” using any other technique, you need to familiarize yourself with its characteristics and subtleties and consult a specialist about this.
Indian aromatherapy
The science of life - Ayurveda, which arose in India about two thousand years ago - requires careful consideration in the choice of fragrances. They can harmonize the surrounding space or disrupt the natural balance of forces, influencing not only our mood, but even the course of events. For example, sweet scents (rose, sandalwood, cinnamon) are soothing. Citrus fruits (grapefruit, orange, lemon) improve concentration. Astringents (green apple, walnut) relieve anxiety. Sour ones (wormwood and lemon) warm.
Based on the results of research into the effects produced by odors and their combinations, aromatherapy arose. This is a whole range of procedures - baths, massages, wraps, inhalations and baths with essential oils, each of which is selected based on the Ayurvedic type - dosha.
Result
Increasing the effectiveness of any cosmetic procedures, improving well-being and strengthening the immune system.
Manual anti-cellulite massage
Manual massage includes special mechanical techniques aimed at warming up adipose tissue, accelerating the speed of lymph flow, eliminating congestion, reducing the size of adipocytes, activating the production of connective tissue proteins and restoring normal tissue trophism. This physiologically based procedure has an obvious lymphatic drainage effect and a slight diuretic effect. A course of manual anti-cellulite massage, regardless of the method of its implementation, requires preliminary preparation (peeling or wrapping to stimulate the lymphatic system).
Manual massage with the addition of anti-cellulite agents
Manual massage, supplemented by the use of special scrubs, oils, creams, lotions and other cosmoceuticals that enhance local blood circulation, tonic and normalize metabolic processes.
Today, lipid complexes containing caffeine, sea salt, algae (spirulina, kelp, fucus), silicon, plant extracts, enzymes and vitamins are recognized as the most effective. Professional anti-cellulite cosmetics used in spa salons and massage rooms are purchased in pharmacies and specialty stores. It is presented in the form of “chemical cocktails” containing thermal additives and active components.
At home, in addition to industrial products, essential oils (grapefruit, cinnamon, geranium, bergamot), coffee and honey-salt scrubs and warming ginger masks can be used.
When manually treating problem areas, various massage techniques are used (stroking, rubbing, patting, grasping kneading, rolling, pinching). All movements must correspond to the direction of lymph flow. The advantage of this technique is an individual approach and the ability to correct the force of impact. The disadvantages are the influence of the human factor and the possibility of tissue injury, leading to the formation of edema and hematomas.
Important information! Manual massage using special corrective agents will help reduce the appearance or completely get rid of the “orange peel” only in the initial stages of cellulite. With advanced forms, this technique will be ineffective.
When carrying out massage procedures, restrictions should be strictly adhered to. It is strictly forbidden to massage areas where the lymph nodes are located (inner thighs, area under the knees and groin).
Honey massage
One of the most ancient and proven ways to combat cellulite is honey massage. This technique involves preliminary application of a small amount of natural honey to the massage therapist’s body and palms. After its absorption, intense patting “sticking” movements are performed until the bee product is completely absorbed.
If the procedure is performed correctly, after a while a gray-white mass appears on the skin. There is a misconception that this is how waste comes out through the pores. In fact, everything is much more prosaic: it is a mixture of desquamated epithelium, honey and sebum. The duration of the session is 5-10 minutes. The entire course includes 10-15 massages.
Cupping massage
Vacuum anti-cellulite massage using special cans can be carried out both at home and in a salon. A rarefied environment (vacuum) promotes a rush of blood, increased lymph circulation and increased intracellular pressure. In tissues enriched with oxygen and nutrients, metabolic processes are significantly accelerated, the functions of fibroblasts are stimulated, connective tissue conglomerates are loosened, collagen formation is enhanced, and the elasticity of the skin increases and its resistance to mechanical stress increases. In addition, under the influence of vacuum, the work of the sebaceous and sweat glands is intensified.
Cupping massage can be static (working out the problem area using stationary cups) and dynamic (sliding). Before the procedure, the treatment area is warmed up using a special cream or gel.
According to experts, using this technique, aimed at comprehensive skin restoration, a very noticeable effect can be achieved. However, it has a much smaller number of techniques and techniques and has a number of serious contraindications. It is strictly prohibited for varicose veins and other vascular problems.
Dry rubbing (drybrushing)
One of the effective anti-cellulite techniques, which is widely used both in salons and at home, is massage with a dry brush. To carry it out, special products with natural bristles of medium or high hardness are used. If you don't have it, you can use a hard washcloth.
Dry rubbing of problem areas is recommended for 5-7 minutes immediately before a shower. Intense (but without excessive fanaticism) effect on the skin ensures exfoliation of keratinized skin particles, increased blood flow, drainage of stagnant lymph and gradual smoothing of unevenness. To achieve the desired effect and, at the same time, not injure the skin, cosmetologists recommend carrying out the procedure no more than 1-2 times a week. The first results become noticeable after 1-1.5 months.
Drybrushing is strictly contraindicated for varicose veins and increased fragility of blood vessels. It should also be avoided if the skin is excessively dry or if there are wounds, abrasions or skin rashes in the problem area.
Reviews
“I went through several massage procedures in the salon, cellulite decreased a little, but the skin was not absolutely smooth. Perhaps it’s a matter of nutrition, I’ll try to go on a diet.”
Anna, Moscow
“I did a honey anti-cellulite massage myself and went to see a cosmetologist twice a week. Within a week there were no visible results, but then the skin became more elastic, smooth, and the orange peel was not as pronounced as before. If you combine massage with sports, then I think you can achieve good results faster.”
Veronica, Novosibirsk
Hardware anti-cellulite massage
All corrective procedures involving the use of special equipment are carried out only in beauty salons or cosmetology clinics. Our review presents the most effective of them.
Aquamassage (hydromassage)
This atraumatic healing and tonic technique, which involves exposing the skin of the problem area to an air-saturated water jet, stimulates blood and lymph circulation and accelerates metabolism. This SPA procedure, which combines a contrast shower, elements of thermotherapy and manual massage, is aimed at deep and high-quality treatment of subcutaneous fat. It is carried out in a special hot tub equipped with a compressor that mixes air with a stream of water. In addition to the usual ones, there are combined hydro-air massage systems that massage the body with air-water and air-bubble flows. These plumbing designs make the procedure more efficient.
The duration of the hydromassage session is 10 minutes. To maintain the achieved result, it is recommended to carry out correction once every six months in combination with manual or vacuum anti-cellulite massage and moderate physical activity. This technique has virtually no contraindications or age restrictions. The procedure is not performed in the presence of acute infectious diseases, varicose veins and thrombophlebitis.
Vibromassage
Vibromassage is a type of hardware massage, which is carried out using a special vibration apparatus. This is a multifunctional system that works on the principle of transmitting oscillatory movements of various frequencies and amplitudes. Vibration platforms used in cosmetology practice, in addition to vibration, also have a thermal effect. There are also compact hand-held vibration massagers that can be used not only in salons, but also at home. They are equipped with various attachments and, optionally, an infrared emitter.
When performing vibration massage, the capillary network expands, blood supply and lymph circulation increase. Thanks to vibration, redox processes are activated, the muscle layer begins to contract, tissue swelling decreases, and fat cells gradually decrease in size. At the end of the course, the skin becomes more toned and elastic, cellulite tubercles and depressions are smoothed out
Vibromassage is not recommended in the presence of varicose veins, in areas with increased pigmentation or birthmarks. An absolute contraindication to vibration massage is kidney and liver pathologies.
Pneumomassage (pressotherapy)
Another popular and effective way to shape your figure is pneumomassage. This technique is based on the principle of alternating high and low air pressure, due to which active mechanical lymphatic drainage is carried out.
Immediately before the procedure, a special pressure suit is put on the body, divided into several chambers. When carrying out anti-cellulite massage, only those that cover problem areas are used. After connecting the suit to the apparatus, compressed air is supplied to the chambers through an air duct, moving towards the center from the periphery. Wave-like impulses that exert a certain pressure on the tissues increase blood circulation, stimulate lymphatic drainage and, thereby, ensure the outflow of stagnant fluid. At the same time, the fat droplets located in the adipocytes are “broken” into an emulsion and, together with the intracellular fluid, are excreted. The duration of one session is 30-40 minutes. Full anti-cellulite course – 10-15 procedures.
The specialist performing this procedure constantly monitors the pressure and air flow rate. In addition to its anti-cellulite effect, pneumatic massage relieves muscle tension, eliminates swelling and makes the skin smoother and more elastic. Today it is considered one of the most effective and, at the same time, fairly accessible salon techniques.
Ultrasonic massage
This hardware procedure is based on the ability of low-frequency ultrasonic waves to penetrate tissue to a depth of 4-6 cm (the area where subcutaneous fat is located). Mechanical vibrations in the area of influence increase the permeability of cell membranes and stimulate metabolic processes. In addition, part of the absorbed ultrasonic energy is converted into heat. This helps to loosen compacted connective tissue and significantly accelerate the diffusion process.
This is a fairly sensitive procedure. Therefore, when carrying out it, the intensity of the effect must be regulated. In one session, depending on the tolerance of ultrasound, from 250 to 600 cm2 of skin can be treated.
Note. Ultrasonic massage has a visible effect even with advanced forms of cellulite. The duration of the procedure is 5-15 minutes. The full course includes 8-15 sessions.
Body correction and modeling using ultrasound has a number of serious contraindications. Therefore, it is necessary to consult with a specialist about the advisability of carrying it out.
LPG massage
Today, endermological massage is the most popular and effective way to combat “orange peel.” LPG is an acronym for the inventor of the non-surgical cellulite treatment device, Louis Paul Gaultier.
LPG therapy is based on the principle of vacuum roller massage. Using a special handpiece with built-in rollers, the problem area is treated. This absolutely painless and safe procedure is aimed at kneading subcutaneous fat without excessive stretching of the skin. At the same time, metabolic processes are stimulated, the outflow of lymphatic fluid increases, cellulite compactions soften and the process of lipolysis is activated. In addition, endogenous massage induces the synthesis of neocollagen fibers, eliminates sagging skin and provides a tightening effect.
The duration of the procedure is 30-35 minutes. The entire course includes 10-15 sessions. The visible effect of LPG therapy lasts for 6-12 months.
Eximia
The device from a well-known Italian manufacturer is today the leader in effectiveness among cellulite treatment methods. Excellent results after a course of procedures on Eximia are achieved thanks to the combined action of endoradiomagnetic lifting, radioporation, laser poration and microdermabrasion.
Exotic anti-cellulite massage techniques
In addition to traditional massage techniques, exotic options are gaining popularity.
Thai anti-cellulite massage
This is an exotic technique based on influencing energy channels. The massage therapist performs deep rhythmic kneading, pressing, patting and stretching problem areas not only with his hands, but also with his knees, elbows and even feet. The complex includes working out muscles and subcutaneous fat, yoga, reflexology and acupuncture.
Unlike traditional oriental techniques, Thai massage involves the use of meditation. The goal is to intensify the flow of vitality, restore internal balance and bring the body to a state of harmony. Automatic stimulation of acupuncture points increases energy flows, stimulates metabolism, accelerates the breakdown of fat and fluid removal.
During the procedure, which can last from one and a half to three hours, special creams and essential oils are used. As reviews indicate, this is a rather painful, but at the same time, effective procedure. Moreover, a visible effect is observed after the first session. However, not everyone dares to undergo the full course of procedures.
Chinese Gua Sha massage
A feature of Chinese anti-cellulite massage is the use of special plates made of stone, copper or buffalo horn. When working on problem areas, bright red marks and bruises may appear on the skin. It is also common to experience pain and a feeling of exhaustion at the end of the session. However, the cosmetic effect of Gua Sha is truly unique. In some cases, it is more effective than traditional oriental methods.
Important! Only an experienced master should be trusted to perform Chinese anti-cellulite massage. Under no circumstances should you seek help from a massage therapist who has completed accelerated courses, much less perform the procedure yourself.
Exotic techniques have a number of serious contraindications, which you must familiarize yourself with before experiencing the effects of these techniques.
