What Causes Cellulite — and Can You Actually Get Rid of It?

Cellulite affects around 85-90% of women at some point in their lives — across all body shapes, sizes, and fitness levels. Yet it remains one of the most misunderstood skin concerns, surrounded by myths about diet, exercise, and miracle creams. Here is what is actually happening beneath the surface, and what genuinely helps.

The real cause of cellulite

Cellulite occurs when fat deposits push through the connective tissue (fibrous septae) that runs between skin and muscle. In women, these fibrous bands run vertically — which means fat can more easily push upward through them, creating the characteristic dimpled surface. In men, the septae run in a criss-cross pattern that prevents this effect, which is why cellulite is so much rarer in men.

The dimpling effect is amplified by the overall volume of fat in the area, the thickness and elasticity of the overlying skin, hormonal influences (particularly oestrogen), and circulation. Poor lymphatic drainage can also cause fluid retention that makes cellulite appear more pronounced.

Why diet and exercise only go so far

Exercise and a healthy diet can reduce fat volume in affected areas and improve circulation — both of which can lessen cellulite's appearance. But they cannot address the structural cause: the fibrous bands pulling the skin downward. This is why even very lean, very fit women can have significant cellulite. Body fat percentage is only one of several factors at play.

What treatments actually make a difference

The most effective approach combines fat reduction with skin tightening — addressing both the volume of fat pushing through the septae and the quality of the skin above it. At St James Aesthetics, we use targeted treatments to achieve this:

• Fat Freezing: Reduces fat volume in the treated area, decreasing the pressure pushing through the fibrous bands.

• Skin Tightening (RF): Stimulates collagen and elastin in the overlying skin, increasing its thickness and firmness so dimpling is less visible at the surface.

• Combined approach: Treating both fat volume and skin quality together produces the most noticeable and long-lasting improvement.

Cellulite is not something you need to simply accept. Significant, visible improvement is achievable with the right treatment approach. Our clinics in Camberwell, Moonee Ponds, and Geelong offer personalised assessments to determine the best plan for your skin and body. Book your consultation at St James Aesthetics today.