5 Cellulite Myths Debunked So You Can Live Your Most Confident Life
How many times have you stopped yourself from wearing that bikini you loved because of cellulite? Yes, the C-word. One of modern women’s greatest enemies because let’s face it—society’s unrealistic standards of beauty are never kind.
Interestingly, cellulite is a myth, an “invented disease.” Yes, it means we have been beating ourselves up—and investing in miracle remedies—over a concept that was invested in France and brought to the United States in the 20th century.
We know, our mind was blown too. Especially since Latinas have been beaten over the head about our curvy bodies in magazines, newspapers and social media. Thankfully, celebrities such as Camila Cabello, Karol G, and Lele Pons have shared their unfiltered thoughts about cellulite. Now, we’re debunking the myths, so you can tell the shamers this whole thing has been a scam.
In 1968, Vogue called cellulite the “new word for fat you couldn’t lose before”
The cellulite fiasco began when Vogue magazine published a story in 1968 coining cellulite as “the fat you couldn’t lose before.”
It discussed everything from fat deposits to areas where it commonly grows and, of course, that women had it more than men. And although women DO get more cellulite than men, it has nothing to do with body density, age, or toxins forming in your body.
However, according to Rossella Ghigi, Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Bologna, the term first came up in 1873. Turns out French doctors Émile Littré and Charles-Philippe Robin and included in the Dictionnaire de Médecine.
Turns out, though, that the French doctors WERE NOT referring to cellulite as we see it today, they were talking about cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection.
Myth #1 – Cellulite comes from being overweight
Misinformation about cellulite has been one of the greatest components in making women feel insecure about it. One of the greatest myths is that cellulite is only visible in people who are overweight.
This myth is false since women of all shapes and sizes are prone to having it. Many people who exercise regularly can still have cellulite. For example, our very own Jennifer Lopez experienced paparazzi bullying during her “cellulite vacation” after pictures of her emerged on top of a diving board.
Needless to say, Jenny is still hot with or without the C-word.
Myth #2 – Only women are prone to cellulite
According to the Institute for Health Management Aesthetics, 80-90% of women will experience cellulite in their lifetime. The lumpy appearance of it is mostly prominent in the thighs, hips or buttocks area.
Although it is, in fact, more prominent in women due to how connective tissue aligns, men can have it too. Approximately 10% of men have cellulite and we can also see it appear in infants and children.
Many Latinas who have been prone to criticism from the tabloids have shared how they are embracing their cellulite. One example is Cabello, who went viral on TikTok for saying being at war with your body is so last season.”
Adding, “We are real women with curves, and cellulite, and stretch marks and fat, and we gotta own that baby!”
Myth #3 – Creams and serums can make cellulite disappear
Let’s face it, if there’s one thing the media has done right, is make women feel like they can “fix” the cellulite issue by buying expensive creams, serums and magic potions. But we have great news for you, muzas. Cellulite is here to stay.
Needless to say, you can buy the creams, but our suggestions are to just keep loving and taking care of your body as is, you ALREADY look bangin’.
As influencer Lele Pons wrote on Instagram, “Embrace your cellulite 💪🏼❤️ exposing myself! i’ve always been super insecure when it comes to my cellulite! i try to hide it as much as i can and edit them out…. But today im not gonna do it!”
“This is my natural self. Who cares if others judge… Embrace who you are and be confident,” she added.
Myth #4 – Cellulite forms by toxins in your body
As we mentioned before, cellulite is caused when fat deposits below the skin push through collagen fibers in the body’s connective tissue. As connective tissue deteriorates, the appearance of cellulite may become more prominent, however, this is not caused by toxins.
If you’re looking to reduce aspects of cellulite then look for solutions that work on elasticity, bettering circulation and improving your overall skin’s health. Laser, massage, radio-frequency and excercise can help tone the body and reduce the appearance of dimples.
Myth #5 – Some foods reduce cellulite
If you’re starving yourself to keep cellulite at bay, it’s time to stop. Although eating a well-rounded diet can help reduce inflammation and stay in shape, there are no foods proven to reduce cellulite. If you’re looking to improve skin elasticity and hydration, then aim for foods with a higher water content, such as cucumbers and watermelon.
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