Cellulite, also called “orange peel skin” or “cottage cheese,” is what gives your skin a wrinkled, dimpled look. It appears when body fat exerts pressure on the connecting tissues present throughout the body and distorts the skin. It can appear anywhere on the body but is most commonly seen on the buttocks and thighs. Cellulite will likely appear post puberty and can increase in severity with age. It is also more common in women than men, with about 85–90% of women facing it at some point in their lives.
However, cellulite isn’t a serious health condition and rarely requires medical attention. If you are, nevertheless, worried about its appearance, essential oils are a good natural and healthy remedy for you.
# Grapefruit Essential Oil
Grapefruit essential oil is a regular part of diuretic bath oil blends for cellulite. It flushes out toxins, reduces fat accumulation underneath the skin, improves blood circulation, and helps slim the body when used with topical creams containing caffeine. It is commonly used with vegetable oils, such as olive oil, for massages. It also goes well with a carrier oil like coconut oil for anti-cellulite massages.
Note: This oil might induce UV damage, so avoid if going out in the sun. Also, do not use if pregnant and breastfeeding as there isn’t enough research supporting this use.
# Citrus Essential OilsCitrus oils such as lime, tangerine, orange, and lemon essential oils are commonly used for cellulite as they’re diuretics and enhance circulation. They promote lymphatic drainage and are used in massage oil blends for fat loss, which consequently helps with cellulite. Some of the oils that go well with citrus oils are oregano, juniper, grapefruit, and basil.
Note: Citrus oils might cause phototoxicity when exposed to direct sunlight. So avoid using before going outdoor
# Rosemary Essential OilRosemary oil is commonly used in massages and gets rid of excess water in the body. It detoxifies the body, stimulates the circulation, and strengthens the lymphatic system. Some oils that blend well with rosemary are grapefruit, oregano, and cypress.
Note: Rosemary oil might not be safe for pregnant women, seizure patients, and might induce excessive bleeding if applied on bruises and wounds. Replace with juniper oil in such cases.
# Juniper Essential OilJuniper essential oil detoxifies the body since it’s a diuretic and is hence used for cellulite. It is a common ingredient in anti-cellulite massage oil blends and bath oils. It is also used in massages that treat flabby skin and stretch marks, which helps reduce cellulite. Some oils that blend well with juniper oil are fennel and grapefruit.
Note: Avoid using this oil in the case of injuries or wounds on your skin.
# Clary Sage Essential Oil
Clary sage essential oil is popularly used in skin care to reduce wrinkles, acne, and cellulite. Massage oils for fat reduction and bath oils for cellulite make use of this.8 Some oils that blend well with clary sage oil are geranium, juniper, citrus, and patchouli.
Note: There’s not much research to support the use of this oil with pregnant women. So, avoid using the oil to be on the safer side.
# Fennel Essential Oil
Fennel oil is a diuretic that accelerates the expulsion of toxins from the body. It is used in fat-loss massage and anti-cellulite bath and massage oils. Some of the oils that blend well with fennel oil are lemon, grapefruit, and rosemary.
Note: This oil may not be the right choice if you’re pregnant or suffer from epilepsy.