Monday, December 29, 2008

How to Use Massage to Beat Cellulite

By Deborah G Hutton

The cellulite condition often occurs on a woman's hips, stomach or thighs. This is because these areas are the most susceptible to fat. When the fat deposits that are close to the skin begins to expand the skin begin to get a dimpled appearance. It is this orange peel look which is commonly referred to as cellulite.

There are hundreds of treatments available that claim to reduce cellulite. One such treatment is massage. This treatment is thought to help to reduce cellulite by smoothing out the fat and increasing blood circulation to the problem areas.

Massage for cellulite can be done at home or by a therapist at a beauty spa. You or the therapist could use a machine, or you may want to opt for self-massage. Massage is effective especially when combined with other known treatments such as cream, laser or body wraps. When done at home it is a cost effective alternative which can produce excellent results when conducted properly.

The first step to cellulite self-massage is to look at what massage oil you will use. You can purchase massage oils that are believed to help the fat loss under the skin. Your local supply of natural oils will be able to tell you more.

For the cellulite on your abdomen and hips use two hands on your stomach. Knead the skin and fat by lifting it with one and then dropping it into the other one. Do this all over your tummy and hips.

Gently make circular movements and strokes. It is recommended that you avoid doing counter clockwise movements as this is not the natural direction of your digestive system. Also, you should avoid any cellulite massage on the abdomen when you are or may be pregnant to avoid hurting the foetus.

If you have cellulite on your thighs as most women do, start at the knee and use a long stroking motion upwards. Also use the same stroke with the area behind the knees and back thighs.

Once you have finished the long stroke switch to kneading the cellulite and skin using two hands as described above.

To increase the cellulite removal process you can combine the self-massage with other cellulite treatments. If you are on a tight budget some simple steps can make a large difference. This includes increasing the amount of water you use each day, losing weight by eating correctly and exercising, or using a loofah sponge in the shower to rub the problem areas.

For a more intensive cellulite massage treatment you should investigate a home massage machine or ask your local health and beauty spa whether they have a specialized machine available to their customers. - 16650

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