Not all lumps, bumps, and dimples on the skin are created equal. Many people refer to any uneven skin surface as “cellulite,” but the truth is more nuanced. Dimples can come from cellulite, excess fat, or loose skin—and understanding which is which can help you choose the right approach if you’re looking to improve the look.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- What cellulite actually is—and what it isn’t
- How it differs from body fat or skin laxity
- Realistic ways to soften the look (if you want to)
Why skin dimples: what cellulite actually is
Cellulite is a surface texture change—not a sign of poor health. It affects up to 90% of women and is completely harmless. It’s also very different from the skin infection known as cellulitis, despite the similar name.
Under the skin, bands of connective tissue called septae tether the surface to deeper layers. When fat cells expand and push upward, while those bands pull downward, the skin can take on a dimpled or tufted look—especially around the thighs, buttocks, and hips.
Cellulite is not a disease. It’s a normal variation in how fat and connective tissue interact.
You can read a helpful cellulite overview via MedlinePlus.
Cellulite vs body fat: different issues, different tools
It’s easy to assume cellulite is just “extra fat.” But the issue isn’t the amount of fat—it’s how fat is structured beneath the skin. Reducing fat may change shape or size, but it doesn’t always change surface texture.
Procedures like liposuction reshape the body by removing fat deposits, but they don’t address the connective tissue bands that create dimpling. In some cases, fat loss can make cellulite more noticeable if skin becomes looser.
That’s why understanding how much fat liposuction can remove—and what it doesn’t change—is key when weighing options.
Losing fat through diet and exercise can soften the look of cellulite for some people, but it’s not a guaranteed fix. Results vary based on skin elasticity, hormones, and body composition.
Is it loose skin? Signs of skin laxity vs cellulite
Loose or lax skin is another common cause of texture changes, especially after weight loss or with age. But it presents differently from cellulite.
Laxity shows up as folds, sagging, or crepey texture—especially when the skin is relaxed or unsupported. In contrast, cellulite dimples tend to stay visible even when skin is taut.
Try this quick check: Stand in front of a mirror. If dimples fade when you gently pull the skin upward, skin laxity might be playing a larger role than cellulite.
Other signs of skin laxity include:
- Thin, crepey appearance
- Folds that change with posture
- More dramatic after sun exposure or weight fluctuations
Read more about ways to firm sagging skin from the American Academy of Dermatology.
Habits that support a smoother look (without the hype)
While there’s no miracle cure, certain habits may help support smoother-looking skin over time.
Daily movement, particularly strength training, builds muscle tone that can affect how the skin sits on the body. Staying well-hydrated, maintaining a steady weight, and protecting skin from sun damage with SPF all play a role.
These long-term weight management strategies focus on steady progress rather than quick fixes—an approach that aligns better with how cellulite responds.
Simple habits that may help:
- Strength training 2–3 times a week
- Eating enough protein for skin repair
- Wearing SPF daily on exposed areas
- Staying hydrated throughout the day
None of these will erase cellulite, but they can improve skin health and body composition, which may affect the overall appearance.
Clinic options: what they aim to do (and their limits)
Several clinic-based treatments exist to reduce the appearance of cellulite. These typically target one of three things: the tethering bands under the skin, the fat cells pushing upward, or the firmness of the skin itself.
Options include subcision (which cuts the fibrous bands), laser or radiofrequency devices (to heat and tighten skin), and acoustic wave therapy (to disrupt fat or improve circulation). Most require multiple sessions and maintenance.
The cellulite treatments: what really works guide by the AAD explains each in detail.
Before choosing a clinic, ask:
- What does the treatment target: skin, fat, or bands?
- How many sessions are typical?
- What results are realistic for my skin type?
- What qualifications does the provider have?
For a board-certified perspective on cellulite treatment, consult a professional who understands how to match the method to your skin type and goals.
What to do next (safely, and with perspective)
If you’re trying to address dimpling or texture, the first step is understanding what’s actually happening. Is it cellulite? Fat pockets? Loose skin?
Once you identify the cause—or combination—you can explore lifestyle supports or in-office options that fit your preferences and budget.
Helpful next steps:
- Take photos under consistent lighting to track changes
- Give any habit or treatment time (8–12 weeks) before reassessing
- Consult a qualified professional if unsure
- Stay realistic: texture changes are common and normal
Cellulite may not be “fixable,” but you can support your skin’s health and appearance in ways that feel good and sustainable.
Reminders:
- Cellulite is different from fat and loose skin
- Treatments focus on appearance, not cures
- Habits and movement help support long-term skin tone
- Safety and realistic expectations matter most
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