It’s time to have a frank conversation about cellulite, the dreaded lumps and bumps and dimples on the back of our thighs.  Why you have it and how to make it go away, or at least, be less noticeable.

There’s a misconception in our society that cellulite is something to be ashamed of having.  But the truth is, I’ve never met a woman over the age of 18 that didn’t have cellulite.  It’s an unavoidable scourge like grey hair or the cast of Real Housewives.  So if you have cellulite, whether you have a little or a lot, stop feeling bad about it.

There are many things that cause cellulite: fat deposits, a lack of muscle tone, an improper diet, poor hydration, sitting for too long, genetics, etc.  And no woman can avoid all of those triggers, but there are ways to minimize cellulite in preparation for the dare-to-bare summer months.

First off, skip the fancy lotions and potions.  Most of them don’t do a damn thing and they’re really expensive.  For my money, the best thing that you can buy to help rid yourself of cellulite is a dry brush.  

That’s right a brush.  The Bliss Fat Girl Brush ($22), to be exact.

To lessen the look of cellulite, you need to get fluid moving through the lymphatic system and blood circulating through the veins.  You need to clear out those toxins, and eliminate fluid retention.  Dry brushing helps get things moving again.

Before I get into the shower, I grab my dry brush and brush the soles of my feet, my heels and the tops of my feet.  Then, in an upward motion, I brush from my ankles to my knees.

Next, the thighs, from the knee to the tush.  Then, I like to brush the backs of my thighs once more holding the brush at a 45-degree angle.  This is just to get the fluid good and loosened up.  And then I brush in an upwards motion one last time.

I dry brush twice per week, and it makes it difference not only in my cellulite, but in the soreness I feel in my legs.  I would do it more, but I find it can be tough on the skin, even when it’s done gently.  And don’t forget to a) do it before you shower (it is a dry process, after all) and b) apply lotion afterward (your skin will need it).

If you still need more help, the only skincare product that I have ever found that made a difference in the tone and firmness of my legs is Shiseido Body Creator Gel ($58).  

First off, it smells amazing, like grapefruit and orange.  Second, it tingles like someone poured Listerine in your veins (make sure to wash your hands after applying).  And third, it really seems to improve circulation and smooth things out a bit over time.  

Like I said, most cellulite creams are little more than fancy lotions with high price tags.   But the Shiseido Body Creator does help, it just doesn’t classify as a miracle cure.

We all have cellulite.  We all hate cellulite.  So stop hiding your thighs away and do something about it.  Cut some fat from your diet, drink more water and buy a dry brush.  It helps.

P.S. If you want to find a cheaper brush, just make sure to choose one with natural fibers.  They’re much more forgiving than a synthetic would be on delicate skin.  This vegetable brush is only $8.