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Hello Lovelies:

I have cellulite! And if you’re a lady chances are you do too.

And chances are also high that you aren’t a big fan of it.

I mean, how could we possibly feel good about something when there’s an entire market of products and magazines telling us it’s awful and we need to get rid of it? Am I right?!

But I’ve got some news for you – our cellulite is pretty well here to stay.

And the best “cellulite treatment” option there is is learning to love and accept it.

That sounds kind of bonkers right? But there’s a really big reason why…

It turns out that everything we’ve been told about cellulite is wrong and re-thinking how we look at is truly a game changer.

Not feeling so sure about accepting cellulite just yet? Don’t you worry! Let’s talk about what cellulite really is and why learning to love it is the greatest thing you can do for yourself…

4 Reasons To Love Your Cellulite

1. It’s More Common Than You Probably Think

90% of women have cellulite! That’s right – If you have it you aren’t some strangely defective butterfly with a problem. You’re a normal person with a fairly common trait. It’s so common in fact that some dermatologists consider it a secondary female sex trait (source).

2. Fat Isn’t Actually The Problem

Women of all shapes and sizes have it. Curvy, slim, short, tall, muscular… cellulite doesn’t discriminate. And that’s because fat isn’t the only factor to consider.

It’s all about the connective tissue baby! We’ve got a bit of a different set up than our male counterparts and that makes us way more prone to developing cellulite.

How is our connective tissue different?

If you were able to magically take a peek into the amazing layers of your beautiful skin you’d see something pretty awesome. First we’ve got the epidermis, that wonderful outer layer you’re used to marveling at. Then we have the dermis, pulling in second to help shield your precious insides. And after that we have some wonderful little fat cells hanging out between layers of connective tissue.

Connective tissue is kind of a big deal. It’s there to connect our skin to our muscles. And us ladies have a unique set up. Our connective tissue sets itself up in parallel layers. Think of it as your body’s white picket fence. This makes it easier for fat cells to push through the tissue slightly, pressing into the skin and creating a dimpled effect. Men’s connective tissue is more of a basket weave, which helps to prevent cellulite from appearing (source 1, source 2).

Related: 3 Things You Need to Know About Practicing Self-Love

3. Hormones Also Have A Say

Surprise, surprise, hormones play a role in whether or not we get little dimples on the surface of our skin too. After puberty estrogen influences our bodies to start storing more fat. Just in case we decide to start making babies any time soon. Hello breasts, larger hips, bigger booties and, potentially, cellulite!

Not only do we have a different connective tissue set up, but our hormones and biology lead us to storing 6 to 11% more fat than men. And that means we have more cells that might peek through our internal white picket fence, no matter what gorgeous shape or size we are (source).

4. You Can’t Cure Cellulite

There are a ton of products, procedures and workouts that boast that they have the answer. In fact, American women spent $47 million on cellulite reduction products in 2008 alone. That’s one mountain of cold hard cash! And they typically only saw a temporary 25% to 50% improvement (source).

Weight loss isn’t always the answer either. While it may reduce the appearance of cellulite for some women, it might make no difference at all or increase visibility for others.

Why can’t we completely fix it? 

As you now know, it isn’t just about fat. We’ve got connective tissue and estrogen to consider. And there’s also fat distribution and skin thickness or thinness all lending a hand. Which isn’t something we can control. That’s all in our genes darling. Part of our uniquely wonderful blueprints.

Short of magically changing our connective tissue, there really isn’t any way we can permanently delete cellulite from our lives.

Related: 8 Ways to Love Yourself Fiercely (Your Health Will Thank You)

So What IS The Best Cellulite Treatment Option

Self-love is the answer baby!

While things like exercise, coffee body scrub, massage, dry body brushing and certain self-care products may help to reduce the appearance of cellulite to some degree, chances are if you have it it’s here to stay. And honey, that’s ok!

Working on loving and accepting your gorgeous self, as you are, is the most wonderful way to overcome the insecurity and discomfort that often comes along with things like cellulite.

And remember, dimples are adorable! Even if they’re on your booty. <3

If working on self acceptance, especially accepting parts of yourself you aren’t particularly fond of, sounds daunting I have an entire post on it for you right here. But when it comes to accepting cellulite there are a few extra things that can help:

1. Empower yourself by acknowledging the fact that cellulite is common, normal and scientifically unbeatable.

2. Work on reeling in your inner mean girl. It takes time and effort, but the way we talk to ourselves (both internally and out loud) has a huge affect on how we feel. If you’re constantly putting yourself down you’re going to feel down. Acknowledge negative self talk as it comes without judgment or anger and respond with kindness. 

3. And hey, even when that inner mean girl isn’t rearing her ugly head, speak kindly to yourself. You know how compliments and kind words make you feel awesome? Well, it’s extra awesome when they’re coming from inside.

You are beautifully imperfect. We all are. How the back of your thighs look shouldn’t matter.

Now it’s your turn – do you have cellulite? Have you had difficulty accepting it? What advice would you give someone who wants to work on accepting cellulite as part of their beautiful selves? 

Health and love,

Thought of the day: My body is beautiful and worthy of love and adoration.

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