Menopause and cellulite: what should you know?

Cellulite is a dimpled or uneven skin texture, often seen on the thighs, hips, buttocks or abdomen. Fibrous bands beneath the skin pull downward while fat presses upward, creating the familiar surface pattern.

During perimenopause and menopause, falling oestrogen may reduce collagen production and skin thickness. Skin can therefore provide less visual coverage over the tissue beneath it. Changes in activity, muscle mass, weight distribution and fluid balance may also alter how dimpling appears. These changes do not mean that cellulite is dangerous, and cellulite can occur at any body size.

Cellulite is different from sudden swelling, a painful lump, skin infection or a firm area that does not move with the surrounding tissue. A new or unusual change should be considered on its own rather than automatically attributed to menopause.

Regular resistance exercise can support muscle beneath the skin, while walking or other enjoyable movement can help maintain strength and circulation. Adequate protein, varied whole foods, hydration and avoiding tobacco support general skin health. These measures may improve tone and wellbeing, but they do not remove cellulite completely.

A clinician can assess your skin and discuss procedures if dimpling remains bothersome. Radiofrequency Skin Tightening uses heat-based energy to target tissue and may be considered when skin laxity contributes to the appearance. RF Microneedling combines tiny needle channels with radiofrequency energy. Subcision releases selected fibrous bands beneath individual dimples. Carboxytherapy uses injected carbon dioxide as a procedure option. Suitability, expected change, discomfort, downtime and risks vary with your skin, medical history and the treatment area.

Ask for a treatment plan that explains how many visits may be needed, how results will be judged and what maintenance might involve. Avoid unlicensed injections or devices advertised with guaranteed or permanent results.

Arrange a medical assessment if an area becomes suddenly swollen, red, hot, tender or rapidly different, or if you notice a firm lump, skin dimpling that is new and confined to one spot, a wound that does not heal, or unexplained bruising. Seek prompt care for severe pain, spreading redness, fever or swelling with breathlessness.

A clinician can distinguish ordinary cellulite from conditions affecting the skin, veins, lymphatic system or underlying tissue. Mention any hormone therapy, medicines, recent procedures and the timing of the change.

Which features suggest ordinary cellulite in my case, and is any examination needed for the change I have noticed?

Would exercise, treatment of skin laxity or a procedure fit my goals, skin type and medical history?

What preparation, aftercare, downtime and possible side effects should I expect, and how will we review the result?