Cellulite is a very common condition that causes lumpy skin on the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen, and is most prevalent in women.
Some of the treatments available can be costly. But according to traditional Chinese medicine expert (TCM), Kathy Zhang, who has worked in the field of TCM for more than 30 years, doing a simple exercise at home could help with the appearance.
Kathy, who has 1.6 million followers on TikTok, posted how to do the exercise, based on TCM, on her channel.
First, she said, find a scarf and wrap it around your leg. Tighten the grip, then pull both ends of the scarf so they’re on the outside of your leg.
Next, she advised: “Pull away from your leg using your whole body, hold for seven seconds, relax and repeat.”
Kathy recommended doing the exercise seven times a day for three weeks. She explained: “By doing this exercise you can stimulate your stomach meridian, which can give you better circulation and better absorption.”
Like many TCM techniques there are few studies to prove their health benefits. Another popular TCM method to get rid of cellulite is cupping.
The treatment involves placing the open side of heated cups directly on the skin. This creates a vacuum effect that pulls surface tissue into the cup.
The intent behind cupping is to improve the skin’s appearance by draining fluids and toxins from the body.
In 2015, a small pilot study investigated the effects of cupping for cellulite. The research involved 40 healthy female participants.
It was found dry-moving cupping therapy applied 10 times on each thigh for five weeks effectively decreased the grade of cellulite.
Massage is also used in some cellulite treatments. The Mayo Clinic explains: “Some cellulite treatments are based on the concept that vigorous massage will increase lymphatic flow, remove toxins and reduce excess fluid in cellulite-prone areas.
“One method uses a hand-held machine to knead the skin between rollers (Endermologie). Endermologie has FDA approval as a medical device with little potential to cause harm.
“You might notice a slight improvement to your skin after a number of sessions. The results are short-lived.”
Treatment for cellulite isn’t necessary, but if you’re concerned about the appearance of your skin, speak to your GP.