Oprah’s Guide to Gorgeous Legs! Battling Cellulite

The majority of women feel more comfortable wearing a pair of jeans with their favorite pair of high heels. Some of us would rather cover up our legs than show them off in public. Cellulite, pale legs and varicose veins are just a few of the issues that prevent us from wearing a nice, summer dress with our sexy heels. Oprah discusses these problems and will have your legs looking divine in no time. Here is what O, The Oprah Magazine has to say specifically about cellulite-directly from Oprah.com: (direct link)

Problem 5: Lumps and Bumps

Cellulite is a fact of life for about 90 percent of us, and as of yet, there’s not a lot we can do about it. A few high-tech machines are approved by the FDA for a temporary reduction in the appearance of cellulite (there is no indication of how long results may last).

Liposuction is a one-shot deal, but even this invasive procedure won’t necessarily improve cellulite. “Sometimes it helps, sometimes it doesn’t, and sometimes it makes cellulite worst,” says Heidi Waldorf, MD, director of laser and cosmetic dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center. You can suck out some of the fat, but you can’t do anything about the fibrous bands that create dimpling.

Topical cellulite creams contain ingredients (usually caffeine or a derivative) that act as diuretics, removing moisture from the skin, which makes it firmer for a few hours. (So: Rub it in, get to the beach, and get back fast? Some of these creams also contain retinol, which helps refine the surface of the skin and can boost collagen production. Over time, retinol improves the texture of your skin (but not your cellulite).

This article specifically focuses on leg issues. However, working out your lower body is a great way to tone your legs. There are very simple exercises that you can do to get shapely legs, especially during the summer when you need it most. Fitness coach Joey Atlas has a wonderful program, called The Ultimate Leg, Butt, Hip and Thigh Makeover that specifically targets your lower body. You may want to check it out.