Cellulite is an unsightly problem that affects approximately 85 percent of all women, regardless of weight. While excess weight often worsens the appearance of cellulite, a new study has found that weight loss may in fact have the same effect in some patients.

“We found that weight loss in overweight patients improves the appearance of cellulite, but for a few, it actually worsened the condition,” said Dr. John Kitzmiller, co-author of the study.

Cellulite Study

Researchers followed 29 women who signed up for various weight loss programs. Some programs involved low-fat meals or liquid diets, while others involved medication or surgery.

The patients lost between two and 102 pounds, with an average weight loss of 30.5 pounds. In 17 patients, the appearance of cellulite was improved. Nine patients experienced a worsened appearance of cellulite.

Conclusions

The findings revealed that patients with a high initial body mass index (BMI) and severe cellulite experienced the greatest improvement after significant weight loss. Those who began with a lower BMI and lost smaller amounts of weight ended up with worsened cellulite.

According to the researchers, skin elasticity after weight loss also played a role in the appearance of cellulite. Patients whose skin became looser after weight loss were more prone to have worsened cellulite.

“There is no answer for completely eliminating cellulite. However, it appears the more weight one loses, the better its appearance. Although the appearance of cellulite diminished for the majority of patients, weight loss did not totally eradicate the condition,” said Dr. Kitzmiller.

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