Medical Encyclopaedia › Cellulite (short definition)
In brief: Cellulite, colloquially known as orange-peel skin, refers to a dimpled skin surface, mainly on the thighs, buttocks and hips. It affects most adult women and is not a disease but a characteristic of connective tissue.
Why does cellulite develop?
In women, the connective tissue strands of the subcutaneous tissue run predominantly vertically. Fat lobules can bulge upwards between them, while the strands pull the skin down at individual points – this creates dimples. Hormones, predisposition, age (thinner skin, less collagen) and weight fluctuations influence how pronounced it is. Slim people also have cellulite.
What realistically helps
Regular exercise and muscle building as well as a stable body weight can improve the appearance of the skin, but cannot eliminate cellulite completely. In studies, creams containing caffeine or retinol show at most small, temporary effects. Massage and lymphatic drainage usually only have a short-term effect.
Aesthetic procedures and risks
Procedures offered include subcision (cutting the connective tissue strands), radiofrequency, shock waves, lasers and injections. The evidence is inconsistent, results often last only a limited time, and bruising, swelling, irregularities or pigment changes can occur. Before treatment, detailed information about benefits, risks and costs and realistic expectations are important.
Differentiation
Painful, symmetrical fat accumulation on the legs or arms with a tendency to bruise may indicate lipoedema, which should be assessed by a doctor.
Related terms in the encyclopaedia
Connective tissue, Subcutis, Collagen, Lipoedema, Radiofrequency, Strength training, Body fat percentage
Sources
- Luebberding S, Krueger N, Sadick NS: Cellulite – an evidence-based review. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology 2015
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): Cellulite treatments – What really works?
Note: This article is for general information and does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or pharmacist. Last updated: October 2026.