Get under your skin

Cellulite and stretch marks are part and parcel of every woman's life. We spoke to Kaya Skin Clinic on methods to prevent them and acquire radiant skin.

Your skin is the largest organ of the body and extra care needs to be taken to make it shine with health from the inside out. As we grow older, our skin weakens and loses elasticity resulting in abnormalities like cellulite and stretch marks. While our age and our genetic makeup are uncontrollable factors, we can commit to exercising and eating clean. Quit moping in front of the mirror and practise some preventive measures in your own home to maintain radiant skin throughout your body.  

So, what are cellulite and stretch marks? Cellulite is fat pockets stored under the skin that give it a dimple-looking appearance. Stretch marks appear when your skin is overstretched and elastic fibres in the skin break down and weaken. 

The first thing to remember is, you are not alone. Cellulite and stretch marks are normal and though these conditions tend to last permanently, with a little tender love and care, there are ways to stifle them and promote self-love and body positivity. 

Keep your body moving 

To reduce stretch marks and cellulite, you need to keep your body fighting fit. The key to keeping any skin looseness at bay is an active lifestyle that promotes blood circulation. If you can't commit to the gym five times a week, add regular exercises like skipping, swimming, and jogging to your daily routine, which also helps in retaining skin elasticity. 

Massage it out 

Massages can reduce cellulite by improving lymphatic drainage and stretching your skin tissue. Enlist the help of a massage therapist at your home or at a spa of your choice. Of course, this isn't just a one-time deal. Consistently repeated massages focused on specific cellulite-present areas will achieve your desired results.Routine body massages with anti-cellulite tools, combined with sauna sessions also help in reducing water retention and keeping the skin, soft and supple. 

Eat natural

Gorging on junk food isn't helping anyone, especially your skin. Make a conscious effort to cut down on junk food and increase your intake of natural food. Consumption of foods with high sugar, salt, and chemicals such as food colouring, preservatives etc. discourages water retention, leading to puffy skin. Drink water, make yourself some delicious smoothies and salads and incorporate organic foods into your daily diet. The nutrition from them will contribute to a glowing and radiant surface of the skin. 

Treat yourself 

While cellulite can fade over time with proper care, stretch marks are more obstinate. Stretch marks creams work only on the surface. The use of Retinol, a pure form of Vitamin A, can strengthen and thicken the skin to reduce visible marks. Also, caffeine, an antioxidant, when used daily as a scrub or as coffee, is thought to reduce swelling and tighten cellulite containing skin.  

Prevention is better than a cure. If you notice abnormalities in your skin or just want healthier skin, consult an expert as soon as you can, and get advice on the best ways to tackle cellulite and/or stretch marks on your body. No one and nothing is stopping you from living your best skin life, from the inside out.