What Are the Causes of Severe Cellulite in Thin People?

Genetics
Age
Excess Fat

Written by Laura Williams

05 December, 2018

Fact Checked

According to the Mayo Clinic, at least eight out of 10 women battle cellulite. While not considered a disorder, cellulite can appear dimply and unattractive and may cause you to feel self-conscious in public, Most frequently, cellulite appears on the thighs, butt and stomach, areas where fat often appears close to the skin. Cellulite is simply fat that pushes against connective tissue creating a rippled effect, and it doesn't matter how thin you are, you may still have cellulite.

Genetics

If your mother has cellulite, it's likely that you'll have cellulite as well. According to the Mayo Clinic, cellulite often runs in families. Women often carry excess fat in their hips, butt and thighs, and if your mother had cellulite in these areas, you may find yourself battling the bulge there as well, regardless of how thin you are. Unfortunately, you can't change genetics, so if you're exercising, staying hydrated and otherwise taking care of yourself, you may just need to accept your fate.

If your mother has cellulite, it's likely that you'll have cellulite as well.

Age

My Thighs Look Terrible With Cellulite & Loose Skin

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As you age, the collagen and connective tissue may begin to break down and your skin begins to lose its elasticity. This loss of elasticity allows the fat deposited beneath the surface of the skin to push out toward the surface, creating a more pronounced dimple effect. There simply isn't much you can do about aging. Embrace knee-length skirts and board shorts if you find yourself feeling self conscious about your legs as you age.

As you age, the collagen and connective tissue may begin to break down and your skin begins to lose its elasticity.
Embrace knee-length skirts and board shorts if you find yourself feeling self conscious about your legs as you age.

Excess Fat

Cellulite is fat 2 3 4. Regardless of your body shape or size, you might have excess fat on your body. The higher your body fat percentage, the more likely that the fat will push through your connective tissue and appear as cellulite. Exercising regularly and lifting weights could help battle cellulite if you have excessive fat. Get your body fat tested, and if you have over 25 percent body fat, ramp up your exercise routine. As you reduce your body fat, your cellulite may see a corresponding reduction.