Cellulite is one of the most common cosmetic concerns I hear from patients in my St. Louis office. It affects up to 90% of women at some point in their lives and, despite common myths, it is not always related to weight. Even thin and athletic individuals can have cellulite. While it isn’t harmful to your health, it can make many people feel self-conscious, especially in warmer months or during social events.

At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine), we want patients to understand what cellulite really is, why it forms, and how we can minimize its appearance through lifestyle strategies and aesthetic treatments.

What Is Cellulite?

Cellulite occurs when fat cells push up against the skin while connective tissue bands pull the skin downward. This creates a dimpled, uneven surface that most people describe as “cottage cheese” or “orange peel” skin.

Factors that make cellulite more likely include:

• Hormonal changes (especially estrogen fluctuations)
• Genetics and family history
• Poor circulation
• Weak connective tissue or reduced collagen
• Lifestyle habits such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking

Lifestyle Strategies to Reduce Cellulite

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

While cellulite can affect people of all body types, excess fat can make dimpling more noticeable. A balanced diet and consistent exercise help keep fat cells smaller, which reduces the pressure they place on the skin.

2. Exercise Regularly

Strength training, especially for the legs and glutes, improves muscle tone and reduces the appearance of cellulite. Cardio exercise also improves circulation, which helps nourish the skin and connective tissue.

3. Stay Hydrated

Water supports skin elasticity and helps flush out toxins that may worsen the appearance of cellulite. Patients who stay well-hydrated often notice their skin looks smoother and firmer.

4. Prioritize Nutrition

Foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and lean proteins promote collagen production and healthy skin. Limiting processed foods, sugar, and excess salt reduces inflammation and bloating, both of which can make cellulite more visible.

5. Avoid Smoking

Smoking damages collagen and weakens skin elasticity, making cellulite more pronounced. Quitting smoking not only supports overall health but also helps slow the progression of skin laxity and dimpling.

Professional Treatments for Cellulite

Lifestyle changes can make a noticeable difference, but for patients who want more dramatic improvement, medical treatments offer targeted solutions. At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine), we use advanced technology to reduce cellulite and improve skin tone.

1. Fotona Laser Treatments

Fotona’s non-invasive laser system stimulates collagen remodeling and improves skin tightening. By strengthening the connective tissue, it smooths out the uneven pull that causes cellulite.

2. PRP/PRF Skin Rejuvenation

Using your body’s own growth factors, PRP and PRF stimulate cellular repair and collagen production, which can improve both the texture and firmness of the skin. Learn more about our PRP/PRF services.

3. Red Light Therapy with PEMF

This combination therapy enhances circulation, reduces inflammation, and energizes the skin at a cellular level. Better circulation means better oxygen and nutrient delivery to skin and fat cells, helping reduce the visibility of dimpling.

4. Functional Medicine Support

Since hormones and metabolism play a role in cellulite, we often integrate functional medicine to address root causes such as estrogen dominance, insulin resistance, or chronic inflammation. By correcting imbalances, we can enhance the results of aesthetic procedures.

Setting Realistic Expectations

It’s important to remember that cellulite is extremely common, and no treatment eliminates it completely. The goal is to minimize its appearance, improve skin texture, and restore confidence. Most patients see the best results from a combined approach—adopting lifestyle changes while also incorporating professional treatments.

Final Thoughts

Cellulite is not a reflection of poor health or fitness. It is a natural occurrence influenced by genetics, hormones, and lifestyle. While it can be frustrating, modern therapies combined with a holistic approach can significantly reduce its appearance.

At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine) in St. Louis, we help patients smooth, tighten, and restore confidence through a blend of advanced aesthetics and root-cause functional medicine care. Whether you’re looking for natural approaches or in-office treatments, we can create a personalized plan to minimize your cellulite and improve your overall skin health.

👉 Call today to schedule your consultation and learn how our team can help you look and feel your best.

‍