Skinny but cellulite on thighs - what can help to improve the appearance? (Photos)

Question

I’ve always had wiggly thighs with cellulite. I’m 38 now and desperately trying to finally fix this / get under control..… I work out and eat healthy. What can help me change the look of my thighs?

Kyle Summers, DO · Answer

Generally it is caused by not having enough volume in the area, which is difficult because no one wants to add more volume to the thighs. Cellulite bands are connective tissue bands that connect your skin to the underlying muscle fascia. So adding volume to the area helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite. The other options include devices to actually cut the bands under the skin and/or attempting to induce skin contraction with devices such as Renuvion or BodyTite.

Jerimiah Mason, MD · Answer

You should consider one of the RF micro needling devices like Sylfirm or Morpheus.  From your photo you don’t have severe cellulite, and these devices can help firm up the skin in that area.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Morpheus 8 is a non-invasive skin and soft tissue tightening treatment that is consistently amazing in our patients. We use the Morpheus to exact fractional induced RF into the skin or tissue in order to tighten collagen and stimulate contraction of the tissue. For acne scars, it is quite useful to build collagen in patients who have atrophic scars but is not very productive for ice-pick scars which require TCA Cross. For tissue tightening, Morpheus is ideal for the face and neck and we often combine it with CO2 laser or Ultherapy to further enhance results. Chemical peels and skin resurfacing should be done at least 5 to 7 days after, but can be performed earlier, depending on treatment severity. Avoid exfoliating skin treatments before Morpheus and expect a period of 2-4 weeks for skin contraction to set in.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Cellulite is a very common concern and can affect women of all body types, even those who are slim and maintain a healthy lifestyle. It occurs due to the structure of the connective tissue bands beneath the skin that tether down while fat cells push up, creating the dimpled or wavy appearance.

Even with exercise and good nutrition, cellulite can persist because it is not solely related to weight or fat percentage. A few options that may help improve its appearance include:

In-office treatments: Procedures such as radiofrequency, laser treatments, acoustic wave therapy, or subcision (cellulite release) can target the fibrous bands and stimulate collagen for smoother skin.

Injectable treatments: Certain FDA-approved injectables can help release the fibrous septae contributing to dimpling.

Topical options: While creams and lotions are less effective, some may temporarily smooth or firm the skin.

Lifestyle factors: Continuing with strength training and maintaining good hydration can support overall skin tone and elasticity.

Cellulite is extremely common, and while treatments can help reduce its appearance, it’s important to set realistic expectations, as complete removal is usually not possible. Improvements, however, can often be achieved with the right combination of approaches.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

BodyTite is a minimally invasive procedure that uses RF technology to tighten skin and improve overall tone.  It is best for those with mild to moderate skin laxity.  No general anesthesia is required which makes it convenient.  For the cellulite you can consider Aveli.  This treatment is also performed in the office with no downtime.  Visit with a provider near you to learn more.

Skinny but cellulite on thighs - what can help to improve the appearance? (Photos)

Answers (5)

More Skin Tightening Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (5)

More Skin Tightening Questions

I have had polynucleotides and Morpheus8 this year - what else can I try for sagging skin? (Photos)

What are some non-surgical methods to reduce lose abdominal skin? (Photo)

Close to 50 lb. weight loss - Non-surgical arm skin tightening? (Photos)

Crepey arms - ultherapy vs ellacor vs microneedling. Would any of these options be effective? (Photo)

What is the best procedure for tightening loose lower abdomen and lower back skin after weight loss? (Photos)

38, male, 40 - 50 lb. weight loss. How can I tighten a small amount of loose skin on my abdomen? (Photos)

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS