Understanding the Different Stages of Cellulite and How to Treat Them

Many of us are no strangers to cellulite. No matter your age or body type, you may struggle with this common condition and want to find a way to minimize its appearance. At NuBody Concepts, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with the unwanted dimples and lumps that cellulite causes. Our cosmetic clinic offers state-of-the-art treatments designed to effectively address and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Located in Tennessee, NuBody Concepts specializes in procedures to help men and women look and feel their best. Call us today!

How to Treat Different Cellulite Stages

What Is Cellulite?

Cellulite is a common cosmetic concern that involves the development of lumpy, dimpled skin on areas such as the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. This condition arises when fat deposits protrude through the connective tissue beneath the skin. While it primarily affects women, men can also experience cellulite. Several factors contribute to the development of cellulite, including:

  • Genetics: Certain genetic factors may contribute to the structure and distribution of connective tissue, which can influence the appearance of cellulite. Those with thin skin are also more susceptible to visible cellulite.
  • Aging: Skin becomes less elastic as we age, making cellulite more prominent.
  • Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly estrogen, can impact the development of cellulite. Hormonal shifts may affect blood circulation, collagen production, and fat storage, which are all associated with cellulite formation.
  • Diet: Poor dietary habits, such as excessive consumption of processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, can contribute to the accumulation of fat and toxins in the body, potentially worsening the appearance of cellulite.
  • Lifestyle Factors: A sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, and high stress levels can negatively impact blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, and overall skin health, all of which can influence the development of cellulite.

Understanding these factors can help individuals make informed choices to manage and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

What Are the Three Stages of Cellulite?

Understanding the progression of cellulite is important in selecting the most appropriate treatment. Cellulite has three stages of visibility:

  • Stage 1 – Mildly Visible: Cellulite is noticeable only when the skin is pinched and the surface appears slightly uneven.
  • Stage 2 – Moderately Visible: At this stage, cellulite is visible without pinching, with more pronounced dimples and bumps.
  • Stage 3 – Severely Visible: Cellulite at this stage is very noticeable, with deep depressions and a more lumpy appearance.

What Can I Do About Cellulite? 

So, how do you treat cellulite? There are many options, so the answer largely depends on the stage of cellulite development.

Stage 1 – Exercise, Healthy Diet, and Skin Moisturizing

For mildly visible cellulite, regular exercise and a balanced diet can help reduce fat deposits and improve skin tone. Keeping the skin moisturized also helps maintain its elasticity.

Stage 2 – Topical Creams, Massage Therapy, and Liposuction

When cellulite is moderately visible, topical creams containing caffeine or peptides can temporarily improve skin appearance. Massage therapy can stimulate blood flow and reduce fluid retention. In some cases, we may recommend liposuction to remove excess fat.

Stage 3 – Laser Treatments or Cellulite Removal Procedures

If you’re wondering how to treat cellulite at its more visible stage, more advanced treatments are required. Energy from heat (emitted via light or radio frequencies) can break down fat cells and tighten the skin. At NuBody Concepts, we offer specialized Radio Frequency Assisted Lipolysis (RFAL) skin tightening treatments for three types of cellulite designed to meet your individual needs. If you’re unsure about the underlying causes of your cellulite, our cellulite reduction specialists are here to help you find the right treatment for your unique situation.

Advanced Cellulite Treatments at NuBody Concepts

At NuBody Concepts, we provide advanced options for treating cellulite. When it comes to age-related skin laxity causing dimples, we can address this using our renowned BodyTite and Renuvion RF Skin tightening systems.  

BodyTite applies radio frequency energy under the skin to shrink tissues. It is minimally invasive with minimal downtime. According to Dr. Mark Peters, a board-certified plastic surgeon at NuBody Concepts in Memphis, “BodyTite is a single radio frequency treatment that targets the laxity of the tissues causing the cellulite.”

Morpheus8 is ideal for patients with minor skin sagging who prefer a non-invasive alternative. It is applied only to the skin surface and requires no downtime, though patients may need up to three treatments. It stimulates collagen in the skin to thicken the dermis so cellulite becomes less visible.

In his interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Dr. Peters said: “The appearance of cellulite is nearly impossible to eliminate completely. Since cellulite is caused by multiple physiologic and anatomic factors, a wide variety of treatments are used, but most fail to address the root cause of cellulite.”

Post-Treatment Care to Maintain Results

To maintain the results of a cellulite treatment, you’ll want to follow a thorough post-treatment care routine. This routine should include:

  • Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps maintain muscle tone and reduces fat deposits.
  • Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports overall skin health.
  • Hydration: Drinking plenty of water keeps the skin hydrated and aids in flushing out toxins.
  • Skin Care: Applying moisturizers and creams containing peptides can assist in boosting collagen production and enhancing skin elasticity.

Tips for Preventing Future Cellulite Development

Cellulite treatments can help reduce the appearance of cellulite. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent future cellulite development:

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Avoid significant weight fluctuations that can cause skin stretching.
  • Stay Active: Regular physical activity helps tone muscles and improve skin appearance.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutrient-rich foods that promote skin health.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking can reduce blood flow and weaken the skin’s connective tissues, leading to cellulite formation.

Dealing with cellulite can be a challenge, but understanding the different stages of cellulite and how to treat them can make a significant difference. At NuBody Concepts, we offer a variety of advanced treatments designed to address cellulite and its root causes. Our procedures provide effective solutions for smoother, more toned skin.

Eliminate Cellulite at NuBody Concepts

If you’re ready to tackle your cellulite problem, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us at NuBody Concepts. Visit our clinic to see before and after photos of our satisfied clients and learn more about our comprehensive cellulite reduction treatments. Let us help you achieve the smooth, toned skin you desire.


Each patient is unique. What your treatment will look like is determined by you and the plastic surgeon who you will meet with in a personal consultation.