Which sports should you focus on to improve the appearance of cellulite?

Physical activity can play a role in the appearance of cellulite indirectly, by improving both muscle tone and circulation. The most beneficial activities are those that combine continuous movement with muscle strengthening. Brisk walking and cycling stimulate blood and lymphatic circulation whilst working the legs and glutes. Water-based activities, such as swimming, aqua aerobics or aquabike, are particularly beneficial thanks to the draining effect of the water. Targeted muscle strengthening, particularly with exercises such as squats or lunges, helps to improve muscle tone and body contour. Ideally, you should combine different activities.

What is the link between circulation and cellulite?

Good blood and lymphatic circulation plays a key role in the health of your skin. When circulation is sluggish, cellular exchange becomes less efficient, which can lead to water retention and accentuate the appearance of orange peel skin. To support circulation, it is recommended that you exercise regularly, avoid prolonged periods of inactivity and stimulate the tissues through massage.

Does sugar contribute to the appearance of cellulite?

A high intake of fast-acting sugars can contribute to the metabolic imbalances involved in weight gain. When blood sugar levels rise rapidly, the body releases insulin, a hormone that promotes fat storage, particularly in adipose tissue. Significant fluctuations in blood sugar levels can also contribute to certain inflammatory processes and impair tissue health. To minimise these effects, it is advisable to prioritise foods with a low glycaemic index and to avoid excessive amounts of refined sugars. In addition, , formulated with Ceylon cinnamon extract , which helps maintain normal blood glucose levels, and Reducose® white mulberry, clinically proven to be effective in regulating postprandial (after-meal) blood glucose levels.

Is lymphatic drainage effective against cellulite?

Lymphatic drainage aims to stimulate the circulation of lymph, a fluid involved in the elimination of waste and the regulation of fluids within the body. When it circulates less efficiently, this can lead to water retention and accentuate the appearance of orange peel skin. Drainage techniques can help support circulation and improve the feeling of lightness. Manual lymphatic drainage carried out by a professional can be beneficial as a complement to dry brushing, which also helps to stimulate circulation on a daily basis.

Why does cellulite mainly affect certain areas of the body?

Cellulite tends to appear in certain areas such as the thighs, buttocks or hips, where the structure of the tissue encourages the accumulation and migration of fat cells towards the skin’s surface. In women, hormonal factors – particularly oestrogen – also influence this distribution by promoting fat storage around the hips and thighs. This explains why cellulite can be present even in slim people.

Our experts’ anti-cellulite routine

By The Aroma-Zone editorial team

Published on: Thursday, July 09, 2026, Updated on: Friday, November 06, 2026

Cellulite results from a build-up of fat, water retention and a slowdown in microcirculation, which disrupt the tissues beneath the skin and lead to an uneven appearance known as ‘orange peel skin’.

Approved by our dermatologist, our routine combines exfoliation, massage and drainage to visibly improve the appearance of the skin.

Contents

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Wooden Lymphatic Drainage Brush

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Organic Sugar Body Scrub

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200 g

Body care concentrate Firming & smoothing

Firming

(611)

£15.00

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Fat Burner & Drainer

Weight management

(425)

£22.00

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Cellulite Control - 60 capsules - Dietary supplement

Anti-cellulite

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Slimming Massage Oil

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My 5-step routine

Step 1: STIMULATE microcirculation

Wooden lymphatic drainage brush

Dry brushing stimulates microcirculation and lymphatic circulation, helping to improve the appearance of cellulite.

Recommended use: On dry skin, brush for 5 to 10 minutes using gentle movements, always working towards the heart: from the feet up the legs, and from the fingers towards the shoulders. On the stomach, use small circular movements around the navel in a clockwise direction. After brushing, take a lukewarm or cool shower, then apply your body oil or body care product.

Step 2: PREPARE – Smooth the skin

Organic sugar body scrub

This scrub exfoliates, smooths the skin and prepares the skin for further skincare treatments. Its formula combines organic sugar and plant-based oils to leave the skin soft and supple.

Recommended use: Once or twice a week, on damp skin, apply the scrub to the relevant areas using circular movements, then rinse off with clean water.

Step 3: TARGET – Targeting ‘orange peel’ skin

Organic Concentrated Body Care for Contouring & Silhouette

This treatment combines caffeine, seaweed extracts and essential oils of grapefruit and sea fennel, and helps to smooth the appearance of dimpled skin and support skin firmness.

Recommended use: Apply in the morning and/or evening to the affected areas (thighs, buttocks, hips, stomach) using circular, upward movements until fully absorbed.

Step 4: DRAIN – Stimulate drainage and boost fat metabolism

Fat Burner & Drainage – Dietary supplement

Formulated with two patented active ingredients, this dietary supplement combines Sinetrol®, Cactinea™ and green tea. Green tea helps support fat metabolism and promote drainage.

Recommended use: dilute 2 measuring spoons (4 g) in 1 L to 1.5 L of water and drink throughout the day, preferably in the morning.

Step 5: BOOST – Boost the anti-cellulite effect

Cellulite Control – Dietary supplement

A dietary supplement specifically designed to target cellulite, containing the active ingredient Celluvine™, which combines a grape extract standardised for polyphenols, coenzyme Q10 and vitamin C, with proven effectiveness: reduction in the appearance of orange peel skin, reduction in the sensation of bloating, and a more sculpted silhouette

Recommended use: Take 1 capsule a day, to be swallowed with a glass of water.

Discover the full routine

That extra step

The smoothing massage to complement the Slimming Massage Oil:

Used alternately with the Organic Concentrated Body Care for Contours & Silhouette, the Slimming Care Oil is perfectly suited to toning massages designed to enhance the body’s contours and support skin firmness. It targets the appearance of cellulite thanks to a blend of organic grapefruit, organic sea fennel and cedar essential oils, renowned for their firming properties.

Directions for use: As part of a body massage, apply daily to the affected areas until the product is fully absorbed, alongside physical exercise and a healthy, balanced diet.

Discover the Slimming Massage Oil

Aroma benefits

Essential oils are particularly beneficial in an anti-cellulite routine thanks to their affinity with lipids, which helps them penetrate deep into the tissues. Some, such as Organic Grapefruit, Organic Sea Fennel and Atlas Cedar are used for their action on the appearance of cellulite and their toning effect. When incorporated into a massage oil, they combine the effectiveness of the active ingredients with massage techniques – two essential elements for tackling the appearance of cellulite. They can be found in the Aroma-Zone Slimming Massage Oil.

Organic Grapefruit Essential Oil: Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or children under 6 years of age. Always use diluted. Do not use for prolonged periods. Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes. Keep out of reach of children. This essential oil is photosensitising; avoid exposure to sunlight for 10 hours after application. Certain natural compounds contained in this essential oil may pose an allergy risk to some sensitive individuals when the essential oil is incorporated into a cosmetic formulation. Avoid using essential oils that are old or oxidised. Store carefully away from light and air. As a general rule, always carry out a patch test on the inside of your elbow at least 48 hours before using your preparation. For use as a cosmetic ingredient, please refer to the specific precautions.

Atlas Cedar essential oil: Do not use on pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 6 years of age, or people with epilepsy. This essential oil contains ketones, compounds which may pose neurotoxic and abortifacient risks at high doses. Keep out of reach of children. Always use diluted. May cause skin irritation at high doses; always dilute thoroughly. Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes. Internal use is restricted to therapists. Certain natural compounds contained in this essential oil may pose an allergy risk to some sensitive individuals when the essential oil is incorporated into a cosmetic formulation. Avoid using essential oils that are old or oxidised. Store away from light and air. As a general rule, always carry out a patch test on your preparation in the crook of the elbow at least 48 hours before use. For use as a cosmetic ingredient, please refer to the specific precautions.

Organic Sea Fennel Essential Oil: Do not use on pregnant or breastfeeding women, or on children under 6 years of age. Keep out of reach of children. Not for internal use. Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes. Certain natural compounds contained in this essential oil may pose an allergy risk to some sensitive individuals when the essential oil is incorporated into a cosmetic formulation. Avoid using essential oils that are old or oxidised. Store away from light and air. As a general rule, always carry out a patch test on the inside of your elbow at least 48 hours before using your preparation. For use as a cosmetic ingredient, please refer to the specific precautions.

A word from the experts

Dr Reyhan AMODE, Dermatologist

"Cellulite is a very common anatomical variation in the distribution of subcutaneous fat. Where it causes cosmetic concerns, treatment is complex and not strictly standardised. It combines massage techniques with measures to combat a sedentary lifestyle. Topical products containing caffeine are beneficial as they stimulate lipolysis and microcirculation."

Marion ALVES DE OLIVEIRA, Naturopath

Did you know that there are several types of cellulite?
"Traditionally, we distinguish between adipose cellulite, linked to an enlargement of fat cells; aqueous cellulite, associated with water retention and a slowing of venous and lymphatic circulation; and fibrous cellulite, characterised by a gradual stiffening of the tissues.
In practice, these different types often coexist and evolve over time. This multifactorial nature explains why a holistic approach is essential, combining circulatory stimulation, tissue mobilisation, regular physical activity and a balanced diet."

Precautions for use

Cleaning and care of the Wooden lymphatic drainage brush: To maintain the effectiveness and hygiene of your brush, rinse it regularly with lukewarm clean water to remove dead skin cells. Then leave it to air-dry, ideally hung up by its cord.

Storage of the Organic Sugar Body Scrub: Store at room temperature, away from heat and light, ensuring the jar is tightly closed after use. The PAO (Period After Opening) for this product is 9 months.

Precautions for Organic Concentrated Body Care for Contouring & Silhouette: Do not use on children, pregnant women or breastfeeding women. Do not use on irritated or broken skin, or on mucous membranes.

Storage: The recommended use-by date for this product is 18 months. Store away from heat and light.

Precautions for Fat Burner & Drainage - 120 g - Food supplement: Not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for children under 18 years of age. Do not take on an empty stomach. Do not take if you are consuming other products containing green tea on the same day. Do not consume more than 800 mg of (-)-3-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) per day. Not recommended in cases of peptic ulcer, heart conditions or hyperthyroidism. If you are taking medication, seek advice from a healthcare professional. Keep out of reach of children.

Storage: Store away from light, heat and moisture. Close the sachet tightly after use.

Precautions for Cellulite Control – 60 capsules - Food supplement: Not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. For adults only. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Seek advice from a healthcare professional if taking anticoagulant medication. Keep out of reach of young children.

Storage: Store away from light, heat and moisture, in the tightly closed jar.

Precautions for the Slimming Massage Oil: Do not use on children, or on pregnant or breastfeeding women. Do not use on irritated or broken skin, or on mucous membranes. Avoid contact with the eyes. In case of contact with the eyes, rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Storage: Store your oil away from heat. The recommended shelf life of this product is 24 months.

Precautions regarding essential oils: Essential oils are powerful natural concentrates. Please refer carefully to the intended uses and precautions for use on each product data sheet. Store them in a suitable glass bottle, away from light and air. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use on pregnant or breastfeeding women, or on children under 6 years of age. Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes. Please consult the general safety information sheet for essential oils as well as the specific information sheet for each essential oil.