Cellulite is a problem that almost 95% of all women are faced with. Dimpled, uneven fat bulges give a cottage cheese appearance to the skin of the thighs and rear end areas. Many believe that it's just something they have to put up with, and try hiding it under long dresses and pants. Be brave! You CAN reduce and eliminate cellulite for good. Here are some of the ways!

Let's start with a definition of cellulite.

Beneath the dermis, a fibrous network layer called septae connects the skin to the underlying layer of fat, holding them together. When the layer of fat pokes through septae, creating the view of ripples, cellulite is formed. To illustrate this, picture a fishnet being stretched over gelatin. As the strands of the net pull against it, the gelatin bulges through the openings. This is what happens when the septae and fat create ripples under the skin.

Cellulite is particularly troublesome to older women because the holes in the septae's net have become larger and the skin is thinner, which makes the fat bulges more obvious.

Exercise does not get rid of cellulite. To achieve a smoother appearance you have to target the skin and fat cells.

Two Steps to Beat Cellulite:

Don't depend on liposuction and surgery. According to studies, massaging the area affected by cellulite is one of the most effective methods of eliminating it. Amazingly, easy direct kneading of the area alleviates some of the defective unevenness.

Keeping the area cool has proven to have a smoothing effect when it comes to cellulite. Consider putting an easy dual approach into your morning routine.

On a daily basis, try to end your shower or bath with a cold blast of water on the area of your body that is badly affected with cellulite.

Gently towel dry, then massage a little baby oil into the cellulite. Repeat this oily massage for approximately ten minutes.

After about two weeks, you will start to notice improvement.

How does this method work? Keep in mind that cellulite is composed of small groups of fat cells pushed towards the skin's surface. Cooling and manipulating the skin sends the bumpy fat back down below the septae, again decreasing the pitted appearance on the surface of the skin.

Healthy Skin has a Smooth Appearance

When skin ages, much of its collagen and suppleness is lost, causing the skin to sag. This is why its important to prevent loss of collagen and elasticity, because it will cause cellulite look worse.

You can prevent elasticity loss by following each shower or bath with a quality moisturizer. Collagen is an ingredient in some of the best moisturizers available. Using them provides collagen for your skin as you work on getting it firm.

Firming lotion such as Jergens Firming Daily Moisturizer can greatly benefit the skin and return elasticity and suppleness even though there may be a noticeable amount of sagging. Many firming moisturizers have been proven, through clinical studies, to be effectively tighten skin. As you find your skin tightening, mostly you will also find the appearance of cellulite reducing, as well.

The best way to rid yourself of cellulite is by taking a little time each day to cool, moisturize and firm your skin. Now there's no reason to avoid those skimpy skirts and tiny shorts!