Say goodbye to cellulite

Written: October 2006 

I’ll never forget the first time I saw a photograph of Nicole Kidman’s dimpled right thigh. She was climbing out of her chauffer-driven black Mercedes in vintage Chanel and shoes I’d have sold my soul for. Yet the zoom of an opportunistic paparazzi shot a hole in her image of perfection. The slender style sensation had cellulite. And, somewhat wickedly, I grinned.

The orange peel effect, lipid lumps, hail damage – whatever you call it, cellulite is the great female leveller. Shape, size, nationality and social status are irrelevant: any woman can fall victim and we’re all looking for the solution.

Yet, despite the prayers of women all over the world, there’s still no magic potion that can instantly banish the bumps that creep up upon unsuspecting bums, tums and thighs. A balanced diet, litres of water and regular doses of exercise remain the most effective weapons in the battle against any type of bulge. But that’s not to say we’re completely on our own.

There are many topical treatments that can help smooth the way to a more firmly contoured bod.  From bargain buys to luxe lotions, beautyheaven investigates six anti-cellulite solutions…

Nivea Bath Care Firming Massage Shower, $9.99
A handy wake up call for the mind and the body, this innovative shower-mate releases a refreshing cleansing gel through a circular massage head. The formula itself is pH balanced and can be used by all skin types while the 2-in-1 applicator makes including a bump-shifting massage in your daily routine quick and convenient.
How it works: This helps to boost circulation and drain fatty deposits through massage and the stimulating benefits of gingko. The massage head can be set at different levels of intensity so you can take it easy on sensitive areas but give wobbly bits a thorough working over.

L’Oreal Paris Body Expertise Perfect Firm, $24.95
This one-month treatment aims to improve the appearance of dimples while also addressing uneven skin tone. Light and non-greasy, the hydrating gel absorbs in a jiffy, meaning you can apply it immediately before dressing without risking stains. Developed for use on all cellulite-prone areas of the body, it should be used once or twice a day for a month with this course to be repeated several times throughout a year.
How it works:  Combining caffeine with gingko to assist in tissue drainage and promote cellular activity, this gel also contains par-elastyl, an active ingredient that functions to increase skin elasticity. Studies have shown that some results have been shown in 8 days, with a visible reduction in dimpling and unevenness after 4 weeks.
The packaging illustrates the recommended daily application technique.

Cellusonic Stimulating Body Tonic, $47.95
A caffeine kick for your lumpy bumps. Smooth, soft and with a delicate aquatic scent, this lotion absorbs rapidly and leaves the skin feeling cool and refreshed. It comes in a generous 500mL bottle and can be slathered on up to twice per day to help smooth, tone and firm the skin.
How it works: Poor circulation and lymphatic drainage are key factors in the development of uneven fat deposits. This lotion aims to visibly improve the appearance of trouble spots by speeding things up a little. Containing caffeine and kelp, two ingredients widely recognised for their stimulating effects, mixed with softening shea butter, ivy and camellia extract, it aims to help drain away visible bumps while firming the skin for a smoother, more even appearance.

L’Occitane Almond Shaping Gel, $59
Fresh and lightweight with a delicately sweet scent, this gel blends French almond with silicum and natural essential oils of peppermint, immortelle and palmarosa. Nourishing and moisturising, this one’s a luxurious treat that won’t leave behind a greasy residue.
How it works: Beyond traditional skin-firming ingredients like almond protein and essential oils, this product also features caffeine to aid lipolysis (fat release) and peru liana to help inhibit lipogenisis (fat storage). Massaged daily into wobbly hip, thigh, stomach and buttock areas, it works to encourage micro-circulation to drain away water, lipids and toxins while also promoting skin health and softness.

Decleor Aromaessence Slendisium Body Balm, $99
A fragrant French treat to pamper-away the orange peel. With a zesty citrus fragrance, this delicious balm melts into the skin with ease, providing immediate moisturising and softening effects. It feels and smells just like lemon butter, but is much, much better for your bum.
How it works: Blended with 100 per cent pure essential oils of sandalwood, patchouli, rosemary, geranium, lemongrass and tonka bean resin, this silky soft balm works to the eliminate toxins and water that can accumulate and form visible lumps. It may be massaged across the entire body or used to target swollen or fatty deposits on problem areas like the thighs and the backside. An indulgence for the body and the senses, it comes with illustrated massage application instructions.

Cellcosmet Cellulite XTA Attack Treatment,  $434.40
If you’ve got some serious money to throw around, prestigious Swiss cosmetologist Cellcosmet has a serious cellulite treatment for you to spend it on. The product of extensive cell therapy research, this cream lays siege to the causes of cellulite with a blend of phyto- and bio-complexes. It’s recommended for daily use on problem areas until they disappear.
How it works: This cream works at a cellular level, aiming to visibly reduce existing cellulite while preventing future lumps. The composition of the active complex, phyto-sterols, works to biologically reduce the production of fatty lumps and encourage their elimination. It also works to smooth, restructure and strengthen the skin for a visibly firmer silhouette. Clinical studies have shown that visible results may be achieved in 8 weeks with continual use.