If you’re reading this, chances are you have cellulite and are curious about the best ways to treat it.
For starters, there is nothing wrong with cellulite and it is extremely common due to its strong hormonal and genetic components. “Ninety percent or more of post-pubescent women have cellulite, at least to some degree,” says the board-certified dermatologist Kristina Collins, MD. That said, if you feel like it’s something you’d like to change, there are a few ways to minimize its appearance. One of the most talked about types of treatments: fascia blasting.
But before we get into all the details, it’s important to know what fascia is and how it affects cellulite. “Fascia is a collagen-based connective tissue that covers muscles, bones, and organs,” says the board-certified dermatologist Blair Murphy-Rose, MD. “We know that connective tissue, including fascia, can cause lumpy areas on the body, so the idea of breaking the fascia on the back of the thighs or buttocks to improve the appearance of those areas has been around forever. “
Want to learn more? Read on to learn all about how fascia blasting works in addition to its benefits, risks, and alternatives.
Meet the experts: Christina CollinsMD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Austin, Texas. Blair Murphy-RoseMD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.
What is a fascia blast?
Fascia blasting is the breaking up of fascial adhesions using a serrated mechanical tool, Dr. Collins says. Think of it as a slightly rougher massage that requires you to firmly rub the tissues where cellulite tends to appear. The tool was originally created by entrepreneur Ashley Black. The original product was launched in 2014 and is now a beauty staple for millions due to its accessibility.
According to the brand websitethe best way to do fascia blasting is by using your tool of choice (they come in a variety of shapes and sizes) with an oil and rub in a washboard-like motion. Note: this is not to be confused with digging deep into the muscles.
What are the benefits of a facelift?
The whole appeal of fascia blasting is that it can reduce the appearance of cellulite. However, there are some other advantages that might also make it worth a try, including:
- improved lymphatic flow
- improved circulation
- relief of muscle tension
- reduced muscle discomfort
- fat tissue is broken down for a smoother appearance
Another benefit of fascia blasting is that it’s perfect for those who don’t fancy in-office treatments (more on that below). Tools that cover larger areas on the body can cost upwards of $100, while others are available for as little as $30.
Vovtigo Fascia Massage Tool
FasciaBlaster Trigger Point Fascia Tools for Recovery by Ashley Black
FasciaBlaster Trigger Point Fascia Tools for Recovery by Ashley Black
What are the risks of fascial blowout?
While some have seen positive results for fascia blasting, others have reported side effects that are worth considering if you’re considering trying it yourself. This includes:
- bruising and discoloration
- feeling tired
- injuring the muscle
- discomfort and pain
- temporary inflammation
- nerve damage
In some cases, users said they saw one increase in their cellulite, although it is not clear whether this is the case. Dr. Collins’ hypothesis: blowing up the fascia could have adversely affected their skin by causing more skin sagging and therefore more visible cellulite.
Does fascia blasting really work?
At the end of the day, there is still not enough research or solid evidence among those who have tried fascia blasting to suggest that it would give everyone the same results. When dealing with cellulite, “a multifactorial approach is helpful, so be sure to get a doctor involved and talk to your dermatologist or doctor before committing to a new device or treatment,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “You want to make sure you’re doing it safely because there’s a level of discomfort that’s good and can be beneficial, and then there’s a level of discomfort that can actually do harm.”
Additionally, you may need to cause significant tissue trauma to see results. He adds that the inflammation that follows fascia blasting may simply mask the cellulite due to increased blood flow to the area. At the same time, it can break down adhesions that bind part of the fatty tissue that causes cellulite to appear on the surface.
Alternatives to fascia blasting
Despite the hype surrounding fascia blasting, there are still other alternatives you can try that have similar benefits.
Candidacy: This procedure involves going under the tissues with a large needle or other device to “dislodge the small adhesions and disconnect the pinched layer of fascia between the dermis and the deeper tissues,” says Dr. Collins. “Then we can use ultra-diluted biostimulant fillers to plump up the area and create some collagen growth.” It is generally minimally invasive and requires only a day or two of recovery time. However, multiple treatments are required to see long-term results.
Lymphatic massage: As it turns out a lymphatic massage can be just as effective in treating cellulite. “If someone did this regularly, they could have an overall reduction in the appearance of cellulite,” says Dr. Collins. He adds that this route is also likely to feel gentler, which means less chance of trauma to your muscles.
Foam rolling: If you tend to skip the foam roller after a workout, consider adding it to your routine. Not only does it help break up muscle knots after a good sweat, but it also mimics the fascia’s launchers, “releasing tension, stretching tissues, and allowing and reducing discomfort,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose.
Local products: Some cellulite treatments can actually be effective, provided they have the right ingredients. Although not a long-term solution, Dr. Collins recommends investing in products that contain any type of retinoid such as retinol and caffeine. Caffeine can help reduce excess fluid in tissue, while retinol helps increase cell turnover. “Every time you moisturize or use a bronzing product, you’ll automatically minimize the appearance of cellulite, at least temporarily,” she says.
Ultrasound therapy: During this procedure, a device uses sound waves to break up the tissue, resulting in a smoother appearance. A study noted that this process is unlikely to cause discoloration, making it safe for all skin types. Similar to subcision, this form of treatment also requires multiple treatments and will show results when combined with another form of treatment.
Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.
