What causes cellulite on the legs?

Cellulite is an uneven skin texture caused by interactions among fibrous bands, fat compartments, skin thickness, and tissue firmness. The bands pull some points downward while fat pushes other areas upward, creating dimples or an orange-peel appearance. Inherited anatomy, hormonal influences, ageing, changes in skin elasticity, and muscle tone can affect visibility.

It may show more clearly when standing, sitting, or tightening the leg, and it can look different under changing light. Cellulite is not a measure of cleanliness or personal effort, and it can affect people with varied weights and activity patterns.

Movement and resistance training may support muscle tone and the general appearance of the legs, but they cannot be expected to change every underlying tether. If you want cosmetic treatment, a dermatologist can assess whether laxity, dimple depth, or another texture issue is dominant. Possible approaches include [Radiofrequency Skin Tightening](/treatments/laser-and-energy/radiofrequency-skin-tightening/), [RF Microneedling](/treatments/laser-and-energy/rf-microneedling/), [Carboxytherapy](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/carboxytherapy/), and [Subcision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/subcision/).

Have a clinician assess leg skin that becomes newly red, warm, painful, hard, or swollen, particularly when the change is mainly on one side. Sudden symptoms do not fit ordinary stable cellulite and should not be treated as a cosmetic issue without an examination. Long-standing, painless dimpling can be discussed during a routine dermatology consultation.

Does the texture match cellulite, loose skin, or another condition? Which treatment is intended for my main feature? What preparation, recovery, side effects, and follow-up would apply, and how will improvement be judged realistically?