The appearance of cellulite may be improved through the use of a variety of essential oils, each of which can help relieve a wide range of issues that contribute to its lumpy, rippled appearance. Cellulite oils like juniper, cypress, and rosemary are all helpful for reducing fluid retention. Citrus oils like lemon or grapefruit can tighten and tone the areas by strengthening skin and underlying tissues. They are also useful for stimulating circulation, as is cinnamon-leaf oil. Many of these oils, as well as others like geranium and fennel, also help clear toxins from the body that can contribute to the appearance of cellulite.
One of the main problems often contributing to cellulite is excess fluid retention, and there are many different cellulite oils which can have a diuretic effect to help reduce it. Oils derived from juniper and cypress are both very good for decreasing excess fluids in the body. Rosemary is another oil well known for helping release extra water from the body's cells. Other essential oils that can help clear extra water from affected areas include geranium, fennel, and various citrus oils.
Strengthening and firming the skin as well as the underlying connective tissues can also be achieved through the use of cellulite oils, which in turn may smooth out problem spots. Astringent citrus oils like lemon, orange, or grapefruit may be used to tighten and tone the skin. Cinnamon-leaf oil is useful for strengthening connective tissues that may have become weakened and are contributing to the dimpled appearance of cellulite. Cypress oil is also known to help firm skin and underlying tissues.
Improving circulation in the location of cellulite may help reduce it. In addition to their other benefits, juniper, rosemary, and cypress all work well to stimulate blood flow. Lemon and cinnamon-leaf oils are also useful for this. In order to increase blood flow even more, the application of cellulite oils typically should be accompanied by massage of the affected areas.
Another benefit that can be derived from many of the different cellulite oils is flushing accumulated wastes and toxins from problem areas. Rosemary and geranium both stimulate the lymphatic system, which helps clear any toxins held in the tissues; citrus oils are known to promote lymphatic activity as well. Juniper and fennel oils may also be applied to get a detoxifying effect.