Coffee Break-It Up

No matter weight or age, cellulite can be a huge burden! Simply put, cellulite is toxic build up trapped in fat layers of the body. It is caused by the breaking down of collagen fibers used to connect the skin and layer of fat below it. When those fibers become frail the skin is much more likely to show impurities, causing the appearance of cellulite.

Eating well and exercising regularly play a large role in controlling and eliminating some of those unwanted dents (less toxins equals less cellulite), but how do you demolish years of build up? ‘On a budget, please. I spent my extra cash on parking tickets this week. Last time I checked, the 30 minute limit only applied when someone was waiting; I am merely a victim of lack of communication between the LAPD and Equinox.’ Well, if I knew the magic secret for every woman out there I would probably be blogging from a yacht right now, sailing in a sea of Christian Louboutin pumps; however, what I do know is one helpful remedy that works pretty darn well-coffee grounds and coconut oil!

Here is my all natural, cellulite eliminating, skin softening treatment:

1 cup ground non-flavored organic coffee beans

¼ cup organic extra virgin coconut oil (it should smell like coconuts-if it doesn't, its too processed)

¼ tsp. pure organic peppermint oil (peppermint oil is super uplifting; it can help increase energy and decrease muscle/joint pain!)

In a bowl, mix ingredients together. Place an old towel down, newspaper or apply in the shower (don't use water until you rinse off) to avoid a very unpleasant clean up. Apply mixture to area(s) with cellulite. With a flat hand, apply pressure and massage mixture into skin in a circular motion, then continue with upward strokes towards your heart. Press hard enough so your skin becomes red, it hurts a little, but pain is beauty! Do this for a couple of minutes in each problem area. If you have leftovers, just use it for any other areas you’d like to exfoliate. Let the mixture sit on your skin for 3-4 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Repeat 2-3 times a week. It is best to apply in the morning; the caffeine will promote energy so it could keep you wired if it’s done too late in the day.

Aftermath

Caffeine/Coffee:

Many of you have probably heard that caffeine helps decrease cellulite; over the counter cellulite treatments claim to hold tons of caffeine. 'Why don’t they ever work?' Well, a big reason I personally believe they don’t is because though those treatments may contain one of my sworn by ingredients, they also contain chemicals (remember, chemicals lead to toxic build up and toxic build up leads to…yup, cellulite). I am no scientist, but in my own little world, I would like to say I am and I know for me personally, chemical infused cellulite creams do not work. Caffeine helps to pull out fluids from spaces between fat cells, thus reducing cellulite. The texture of ground coffee also acts as an exfoliator, helping to reduce the size of pores, smooth away dry skin, improve circulation and breakdown fat (basically acts as a polish!). The caffeine and coffee grinds together will tone and tighten your body, effortlessly! In order not to increase toxic chemical build up, it is very important to use only organic fresh coffee beans. Grind the beans in store, or at home with a coffee grinder.

Coconut Oil:

I use coconut oil every night before bed, all over my body (especially when I get sun burnt-it helps reduce sun damage and pain!). It’s greasy so if you choose to use it as lotion, make sure to rub it in well and blot with a towel before getting dressed. As we age, our skin (made up of connective tissues) will lose elasticity and strength thanks to free radical attack breaking it down. When free radicals meet antioxidants they become stationary, meaning we need antioxidants to fight off the effects of free radicals. Natural-unprocessed virgin coconut oil contains vitamin E (supports circulation, aids the appearance of scaring and sun damage), antioxidants and fatty acids. It is also known to support thyroid function, a healthy metabolism and promote weight loss. Lotion with refined oil (stripped of antioxidants) could actually cause your skin to age faster.

Caffeine, the texture of coffee grounds and beauty aspects of coconut oil make up the ultimate exfoliator for healthy, flawless skin. Now, grab your most daring bikini and hit the beach for some 'oh so smooth' sailing! xo