Cellulite or water retention: the differences

If there are unsightly marks on your legs that, while chatting with a friend, you referred to as cellulite, know that you might be mistaken. There is a substantial difference between cellulite and water retention. In this article, we will simply explore the main differences. 

Water retention 

Water retention is essentially a stagnation of fluids that causes an alteration of lymphatic and venous circulation. The result is a series of swellings that produce a strongly unaesthetic outcome. The causes of water retention are often attributable to a wrong lifestyle: sedentariness and an unbalanced diet.

To achieve excellent results, it is often enough to change these bad habits and start moving more and eating more fruits and vegetables. 

Cellulite 

Cellulite, on the other hand, is an inflammation of the underlying fat layer. This inflammation in turn leads to a greater number of fat cells or an enlargement of the fat cells already present. All of this results in a change in the appearance of the connective tissue, which then appears irregularly and is referred to as "orange peel" skin. 

The initial inflammation is related to water retention, that is, to a stagnation of fluids.

Cellulite and water retention are one the consequence of the other. The stagnation of fluids causes inflammation of the adipose tissues, which in turn leads to a change in the appearance of the tissues resulting in orange peel skin. 

Cellulite and water retention: what to do? 

"The victims of these unsightly blemishes are almost exclusively women. What should one do if they notice signs on their skin indicating the presence of water retention or cellulite?" 

• improve nutrition 

Salt in general is certainly not a good ally in combating orange peel skin. If taken in excessive amounts, it can indeed promote water retention, which, as we have seen, is the first step towards cellulite. Contrary to what one might think, orange peel skin can also be caused by a diet excessively rich in sugars: sweets, sugary drinks, etc. In all these cases, the accumulation of toxins and fluids is guaranteed. 

• stay active 

Even a simple walk is enough to counteract the accumulation of adipose tissue. Aerobic movement stimulates circulation and thus helps to prevent or improve the appearance of orange peel skin. 

• Stimulate circulation in alternative ways. 

There are several aesthetic treatments that can help stimulate circulation and therefore represent valid allies to always combine with movement and a healthy diet. 

Our leggings are a valuable ally capable of countering the discomfort that often accompanies bloating and the feeling of heaviness typical of water retention. Additionally, they can help drain excess fluids and be particularly useful as a treatment to try just before an important occasion to appear immediately slimmer and in shape, for example, think of a wedding, a communion, or a significant birthday.