Beneath the surface of the skin is a network of connective tissue that holds the fat in place. When this network is not strong and the tissues are not well connected to each other, which usually has genetic causes, fat begins to penetrate this network, creating irregular undulations on the surface of the skin.

This phenomenon is known as cellulite. As stated by Dr. Molly Wanner, professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School, women experience cellulite much more often than men because men have denser connective tissue and women have thinner skin.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gooseberry Intimates Swimwear (@gooseberry.seaside)

In addition, female hormones play an important role, as they can affect the size of fat cells and the resilience of connective tissue. “Based on this evidence, it’s clear that to get rid of cellulite, you need to reduce fat, strengthen loose connective tissue and change the structure of your skin,” emphasizes the professor.

The importance of psychology and weight

Although stress does not directly affect the appearance of cellulite, as it does with other conditions such as hair loss, wrinkles or cardiovascular problems, the bad habits that accompany stress, such as overeating, eating fat and sugar, smoking and alcohol, aggravate cellulite. Losing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can go a long way in reducing cellulite.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @allneedfashion_

“The problem of cellulite is related to fat. As body fat decreases, the skin structure improves,” says the dermatologist. “As with other conditions affected by stress, improving your psychology and committing to exercise are key steps in dealing with cellulite.”