Massage against cellulite on the thighs and buttocks at home, how to do it, reviews

Due to physiological characteristics, “orange peel” usually appears on the lower part of the body in women. For many, it becomes the reason for the development of complexes and makes it difficult to communicate with the opposite sex. There are many ways to smooth out a cosmetic defect. Massage sessions against cellulite on the thighs and buttocks are considered the most effective. They can be done not only in a professional salon, but also independently organized at home.

The benefits of anti-cellulite massage of the thighs and buttocks of the legs

Cellulite (or lipodystrophy) is not ordinary obesity. The deviation is a systemic destruction of the skin structure, in which the connecting walls between fat cells are destroyed. The latter grow pathologically and form groups. Unaesthetic pits and tubercles appear on the surface of the body.

In the later stages of cellulite development, blood circulation in problem areas is impaired. Swelling appears. Skin deprived of sufficient oxygen and nutrients becomes flabby, rough, and acquires an external resemblance to the peel of an orange. If measures are not taken to correct the situation, foci of necrosis appear on the body due to inadequate blood flow. Cellulite begins to cause not only psychological, but also physical discomfort, causing pain to the girl when touching the skin.

Among the main causes of lipodystrophy:

unbalanced diet;
hormonal imbalances;
smoking;
insufficient fluid intake;
sudden changes in weight;
constant stress;
sedentary lifestyle;
sleep disorders;
excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages;
wearing tight clothes.

Attention: cellulite can be a symptom of serious diseases of the endocrine and digestive systems of the body.

When the cause of cellulite is a pathology of internal organs, it will not be possible to cope with it unless the primary disease is cured. If the skin “suffers” due to a woman’s daily habits, you can cope with it by changing your lifestyle.

Various cosmetic and therapeutic procedures help speed up the process of restoring the attractiveness of the figure. One of the most effective is anti-cellulite massage. Due to its mechanical effect, it has a complex effect on the body:

activates blood circulation in the affected area;
normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands;
strengthens dermal fibers;
cleanses pores, eliminating oxygen starvation of tissues;
relieves swelling, eliminates congestion in the epidermis;
tones muscles;
stimulates cellular regeneration;
accelerates local metabolism, removal of waste and toxins;
normalizes the activity of the digestive system.

Massage procedures help improve immunity, on which the full functioning of all internal organs, metabolic processes, and the body’s ability (including the skin) depend on the negative effects of the environment.

When is therapeutic massage prescribed?

Therapeutic foot massage is part of the rehabilitation process after surgery, fractures, and injuries. The main goal of the procedure in this case is to stimulate metabolic processes and restore limb mobility. This massage is prescribed for the correction of flat feet, after strokes and paralysis, as part of the complex treatment of arthritis, arthrosis, and gout.

There are no clear instructions for performing such a massage, since the technique depends on the specific situation, type of damage, and tissue condition. The procedure is prescribed by a doctor and performed only by a qualified specialist. In this case, all existing contraindications are taken into account.

Indications and contraindications

Anti-cellulite massage is effective in the following situations:

any stage of cellulite;
disruption of metabolic processes in skin tissues;
flabby dermis;
swelling;
digestive disorders;
local fat deposits;
weakened immunity.

The procedure has a powerful effect on the body, and therefore has a fairly large number of contraindications.

Among them:

infectious diseases (including acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections);
menstruation period;
atherosclerosis;
dermatitis;
mental disorders;
diseases of the genitourinary system;
thrombophlebitis;
eczema;
phlebeurysm;
psoriasis;
cardiovascular pathologies;
a large number of moles, rashes in the affected area;
hypertension;
exacerbation of chronic gastrointestinal diseases;
increased body temperature;
endocrine abnormalities;
malignant tumors of various localizations.

Do not massage the skin if there is any damage, even minor damage. A small scratch can spread infection into the bloodstream.

Anti-cellulite massage is prohibited for pregnant women, since the mechanical effect increases the tone of the uterus and can provoke a miscarriage. During lactation, sessions can reduce the production of mother's milk.

Even when a girl has no obvious contraindications to massage, it is advisable to first consult with her doctor. It is difficult for a non-specialist to adequately assess how the body will react to a particular impact.

Feature of the procedure

Anti-cellulite massage of the thighs and buttocks is a set of special techniques and methods of influence, the purpose of which is to eliminate the external manifestations of cellulite. There are many varieties of this procedure, the most popular are:

Lymphatic drainage – eliminates stagnation of lymph in tissues.
Canned (vacuum) - based on the principle of reduced pressure.
Classic – manual impact on the fat layer.
Ultrasonic – involves the use of equipment that affects adipose tissue using ultrasound.

The main goal of the procedure is to stimulate cellular metabolism, for which during manual massage special creams, gels, and medicinal compositions can additionally be used.

Basic rules of anti-cellulite massage

To avoid side effects from manipulation, you need to massage the buttocks against cellulite correctly:

carry out an allergy test when using any cosmetic product, regardless of whether it is purchased in a store or made independently. To do this, apply a little of the selected mixture to the inside of the elbow and wait 30-60 minutes. If no rash or irritation appears on your hand, then the composition can be used;
“move” strictly from bottom to top, in the direction of outflow of lymph and venous blood;
Do not reuse massage oils. They accumulate waste, which is “pulled out” from the integument through the pores;
movements should be smooth, without jerking, straight or circular. It is forbidden to do return actions;
drink herbal tea or clean water during the session, as the cells lose a lot of moisture;
treat only the skin with a fatty layer, without involving muscle fibers.

Attention: it is forbidden to actively massage the groin, popliteal dimples, and inner thighs! In these parts of the body, the skin is thin, the main blood vessels are located close to the integument. They are easily damaged by careless actions.

Before using any devices (jars, brushes and others), you should carefully read the instructions for their use and strictly follow them. The procedures preceding the massage should not be neglected.

How to prepare your skin for a session

The preparatory process is no less important than the procedure itself. To avoid damaging the skin, the following manipulations must be done before massaging:

Take a hot bath. You can dissolve a little sea salt or essential oil in water to soften the dermis.
Wash your body with shower gel or soap.
Use a scrub to open the pores as much as possible and free them from impurities.

Dry your body with a towel, without excessive rubbing. If a dry massage is planned, the skin should be thoroughly dried, in other cases it should be left slightly damp.

You need to take care of a massage product to apply to the skin in advance. In this capacity, it is permissible to use the usual anti-cellulite products - they contain substances that promote fat burning (such as red pepper or menthol).

If you wish, you can make your own massage oil. This will require an oil base and plant esters that accelerate weight loss and stimulate metabolic processes in the body.

These include hoods:

orange;
lemongrass;
cinnamon;
parsley;
tangerine;
geraniums;
lavender;
fennel;
lemon;
rosemary;
juniper;
sage;
grapefruit.

Here are a couple of simple home remedy recipes:

Combine 30 ml of apricot oil with 6 drops of grapefruit extract, esters of rosemary, juniper berries (3 drops each);
Mix 30 ml of grape seed oil with lemongrass ether (6 drops), as well as rosemary, geranium, juniper (2 drops each).

Such homemade products not only tone and tighten the skin, but also allow you to get additional pleasure from the massage. Their aroma improves mood, invigorates, and relieves stress.

Girls who do not have the time or desire to prepare a mixture for the procedure at home can easily use a ready-made massage cream. It is absorbed more slowly than usual and provides protection throughout the entire procedure.

Types of massage in the fight against cellulite

All types of massage are divided into two main groups:

manual - performed by hand;
hardware - during which various devices and devices are used.

They all have advantages and disadvantages. When performing each of them, you must follow a certain technique. Let us examine in more detail the main methods of anti-cellulite massage.

Manual self-massage for cellulite on the legs and butt at home

This technique is considered classic. Of course, it is much more convenient when a massage therapist kneads the thighs and buttocks, but you can do it yourself.

The procedure is performed using various techniques, in the following sequence:

Start with gentle stroking, moving from the legs to the buttocks. The body should be dry, so the skin will be better prepared for further manipulation.
Treat your hands with massage oil or cream.
Go to pinching. Smoothly grasp and release areas of the dermis. Gradually increase the intensity of the impact.
Do active rubbing of the legs and buttocks, moving from bottom to top, slightly pressing on the bumpy places. Continue until the skin turns reddish. This indicates that she is fully warmed up.
Start doing push-ups. Grab the dermis with your hands completely, up to the muscles, and press vigorously. It is permissible to work not only with your fingers, but also with your fists and the edge of your palm.
Clapping with a half-folded palm is the final stage of the massage. They relax muscles, soothe the skin, and normalize blood flow.

Thai massage and shiatsu

Thai massage is very popular, during which pressure is applied to reflex points with fingers or a special stick. Such a tool has rounded edges and different diameters at the ends, which makes it possible to adjust the intensity of the impact. The procedure affects the entire leg, from the base to the toes.

The Japanese technique of shiatsu is similar to acupressure, as it involves applying pressure to acupuncture points. Creams and oils are not used in this procedure. No additional devices are used; pressure is applied only with your fingers. This technique relaxes, relieves tension, and prevents insomnia, so it is best to conduct the session before bed. Attention is focused on points that help solve a specific problem.

Follow-up skin care

After any anti-cellulite massage, regardless of its type, a number of care procedures should be carried out:

Stroke the affected area with your palms, using soft, gentle movements to soothe the skin.
Take a contrast shower to wash off the remnants of massage products.
Apply nourishing, moisturizing, anti-cellulite cream or citrus essential oil to problem areas. Warm skin is most prepared to perceive the active components of the products.

Vacuum technology

One of the types of anti-cellulite massage is a vacuum technique, which involves the use of special cans. They come in glass with a rubber tip, silicone, and with a vacuum pump. The procedure is performed in a certain sequence:

The skin is lubricated with oil to improve gliding;
Banks are installed, inside of which a vacuum is created;
The jar gradually moves across the problem area;
In places where cellulite forms, movements are made in a circle, corresponding to the movement of the hand on the clock;
3-5 minutes are allotted for treating one zone; one session usually does not exceed 20 minutes.

Vacuum massage is performed in a course, the visible effect appears after 10-15 procedures. There should be a break of several days between them.

Regularity of corrective sessions

The frequency of procedures and the duration of the course depend on the degree of development of cellulite and the sensitivity of the integument.

With severe lipodystrophy, you need to undergo 15 sessions with an interval of one day (for girls with thin, delicate dermis, the break should be increased to two days). Each manipulation should last 30-40 minutes.

Attention: massage cannot be done every day. In such a short period of time, the skin will not have time to fully recover.

Basic courses can be repeated 2-3 times a year. In between, it is good to massage the body, focusing on problem areas, twice a week.

Possible side effects

When starting home treatments, it is important to remember that not only the skin is affected, but the entire body. Side effects usually occur due to failure to comply with precautions during manipulation.

Possible complications include:

the appearance of spider veins;
nausea;
swelling;
arrhythmias;
dizziness;
exacerbation of varicose veins;
stretch marks on the body;
pain in the legs or lower back;
vomit;
blood pressure surges;
muscle weakness;
strengthening fatty adhesions.

After a massage (especially cupping or honey), bruises may form on the thighs and buttocks. This often occurs due to exposure to unheated skin and improper technique of the procedure itself. When hematomas are observed after the first couple of sessions, this is a normal phenomenon. If they do not disappear throughout the course, it is probably worth choosing another method of combating cellulite.

Also, after a massage, the skin may remain red, bruised, and irritated. Such side effects are associated with damage to the capillaries by overly active actions. In this case, it is worth reducing the pressure and increasing the breaks between sessions. Unpleasant manifestations often go away on their own within a couple of weeks after completing the course.

Indications for therapeutic massage

Therapeutic massage is also prescribed for:

Hypo- or hypertonicity of muscles associated with multiple sclerosis;
Degenerative diseases leading to impaired muscle tone;
Injuries of peripheral nerves, central nervous system;
Mononeuritis;
Sprains.

After leg fractures, when the limb is in a plaster cast for a long time, the muscles gradually lose elasticity and partially atrophy. To combat such phenomena, massage techniques are used.

Cost of the procedure in the salon

The cost of professional anti-cellulite massage depends on several factors:

massage therapist qualifications;
the quality of the special products used (creams, equipment, etc.);
reputation, popularity of the salon.

On average, for one session of manual manipulation you will have to pay from 2400 to 3800 rubles, vacuum - from 2500 to 5800, honey - from 900 to 1400 rubles. Of course, on the Internet you can find offers for anti-cellulite massage services at lower prices, but you need to respond to them with caution. An unqualified massage therapist with his illiterate actions can cause serious harm to the patient’s health.

Reviews from girls

Many girls love home massage for cellulite. Everyone’s preferences are different; cupping, honey, and brush types of procedures deserve the most positive reviews. Girls note that after just a few sessions, the skin is smoothed, tightened, and the “orange peel” becomes visually less noticeable.

Ladies say the main disadvantages of anti-cellulite self-massage are the pain of manipulation and the difficulty of working on problem areas (especially the buttocks and back of the thighs). Some women perceive home sessions as preventive, practiced occasionally, or use them to prepare the body for a course of professional massage in a salon.

Of course, massaging alone will not eliminate cellulite. This requires a set of measures, which includes proper nutrition, exercise, and cosmetic procedures. Massage of problem areas is one of the most effective manipulations. It not only speeds up the removal of cellulite, but also helps in modeling the figure. It is important to remember that this is a medical procedure that has many contraindications. Therefore, before starting sessions, it is advisable to consult a doctor.