Understanding Cellulite: What It Is, What Causes It, and How to Treat It

Your Complete Guide from TLC|MedSpa Houston

Cellulite affects up to 90% of women and a smaller percentage of men, making it one of the most common—and frustrating—aesthetic concerns. Whether you notice dimpled skin on your thighs, buttocks, or abdomen, know this: cellulite is completely normal and extremely common, even among athletes and celebrities.

At TLC|MedSpa Houston, we’re here to help you understand what cellulite is, why it appears, and what science-backed options are available to reduce or eliminate it—so you can feel confident in your skin.

What Is Cellulite?

Cellulite is the appearance of lumpy, dimpled skin, often described as looking like cottage cheese or orange peel. It typically appears on the thighs, buttocks, hips, and lower abdomen.

Medically, cellulite is caused by fibrous connective cords that tether the skin to the underlying muscle, with fat cells in between. As fat cells accumulate, they push up against the skin while the cords pull down, creating that uneven surface.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, cellulite is not a medical condition, but rather a cosmetic concern that affects people of all shapes and sizes.

What Causes Cellulite?

Several factors contribute to the formation of cellulite:

• Hormonal shifts, particularly in estrogen, which influence fat distribution

• Genetics, which determine skin structure and fat distribution

• Lifestyle choices, including diet, hydration, and exercise habits

• Skin laxity that increases with age

• Poor circulation or lymphatic drainage

While cellulite is more common in women due to the structure of their connective tissue, men can develop it too.

A 2021 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology confirms that genetics and hormone levels play a dominant role in cellulite severity, with lifestyle being a contributing factor.

Can You Prevent Cellulite?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent cellulite completely, but you can take steps to minimize its appearance:

• Stay active. Regular movement improves circulation and muscle tone.

• Eat a balanced diet. Reduce processed foods and excess sugar that contribute to inflammation and fat accumulation.

• Hydrate daily. Water helps flush out toxins and supports skin elasticity.

• Avoid smoking. Nicotine weakens skin by restricting blood flow and collagen production.

• Maintain a healthy weight. Fluctuations in body fat can make dimpling more visible.

While these steps won’t eliminate cellulite entirely, they can help reduce its visibility and progression.

How Do I Get Rid of Cellulite?

At TLC|MedSpa Houston, we offer noninvasive cellulite treatments in Houston designed to smooth, tighten, and contour the skin. Our goal is to treat the root causes of cellulite, not just mask the symptoms.

🔬 Proven Cellulite Treatment Options:

1. Sofwave™ Skin Tightening

This noninvasive treatment uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen and elastin production deep within the dermis, improving skin firmness and reducing surface irregularity.

2. T-Shape 2 Body Contouring

This cutting-edge device combines radiofrequency, infrared light, and vacuum massage to target cellulite from multiple angles. It improves lymphatic drainage, stimulates collagen, and reduces fat volume—making it an excellent option for body contouring in Houston.

3. Topical Retinoids and Caffeine Creams

While results are subtle, these products may temporarily improve skin texture. A 2015 study in Dermatologic Therapy found topical retinol use improved the appearance of cellulite over 6 months.

4. Lymphatic Drainage Massage

This treatment improves circulation and fluid movement, helping reduce puffiness and contribute to smoother-looking skin. It is often used to enhance results after body contouring.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Cellulite Treatment?

You may be an ideal candidate if you:

• Have visible cellulite on the thighs, buttocks, or abdomen

• Maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle

• Want a non-surgical way to smooth and contour skin

• Have realistic expectations and a commitment to follow-up care

At TLC|MedSpa Houston, we provide personalized cellulite treatment plans tailored to your body, goals, and skin type.

Serving Houston and Surrounding Areas

Whether you’re in River Oaks, The Heights, West University, Bellaire, or nearby, TLC|MedSpa Houston is here to help you feel more confident in your skin.

We also proudly serve:

• Memorial

• Tanglewood

• Montrose

• Upper Kirby

• Rice Military

• Galleria / Uptown Houston

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is cellulite the same as loose skin?
No. While both can appear together, cellulite is caused by fibrous bands pulling the skin downward, while loose skin results from lost collagen and elastin.

Can exercise eliminate cellulite?
Exercise improves muscle tone and circulation, which can reduce the appearance of cellulite. However, it does not completely eliminate it.

Are cellulite treatments permanent?
Some treatments offer long-lasting improvement, especially with maintenance. Noninvasive options like Sofwave and T-Shape 2 may require follow-up sessions every few months for optimal results.

Do creams really work for cellulite?
Most creams offer only temporary smoothing. Clinical-strength procedures provide more noticeable and lasting results.

How soon will I see results from T-Shape 2 or Sofwave?
Results begin to appear after a few sessions, with best outcomes seen in the following 8 to 12 weeks as collagen rebuilds and circulation improves.

Book Your Cellulite Consultation Today

At TLC|MedSpa Houston, we offer science-backed cellulite treatments in Houston that deliver real, visible results. Whether you're prepping for summer or just want to feel smoother and more confident year-round, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

📞 Call us or book your appointment online
📍 Proudly serving Houston, including River Oaks, The Heights, West U, and beyond