Lipedema or cellulite: The most important differences at a glance

Balz Schürmann

About the author: Balz Schürmann (CEO)
Balz Schürmann is the founder of skin689 and shares his in-depth knowledge about effective skincare for cellulite in our journal. As the developer of the innovative active ingredient CHacoll®, he brings many years of experience in formulating highly effective cosmetic products "Made in Switzerland." His expertise is based on a deep understanding of the causes of visible skin changes—and how to effectively address them.

When people notice dimples on their skin, they often initially think of cellulite. However, this seemingly aesthetic problem could also be a case of lipedema. Those affected often find it difficult to distinguish between cellulite and lipedema.

In this article, we summarize the characteristics of lipedema and cellulite, as well as their associated symptoms. We explain the differences and discuss treatment options for both conditions. We also introduce the anti-cellulite cream from skin689. before.

The most important points in brief:

  • What is lipedema and how can I recognize it? Cellulite is a cosmetic problem caused by weak connective tissue.
  • What is cellulite? Lipedema is a pathological fat distribution disorder that is accompanied by hardening of the subcutaneous fat tissue.
  • What are the differences between lipedema and cellulite? Unlike cellulite, lipedema causes additional symptoms such as pain or nodules under the skin.

What is cellulite?

A large majority of women are affected by cellulite at some point in their lives. It manifests as unsightly dimples, usually appearing on the thighs and buttocks.

Cellulite is caused by the weak connective tissue in women. They have a parallel network of collagen fibers that support the skin. Fat cells accumulate between the individual fibers. These can press against the skin and thus create dimples.

This suggests that many women have a genetic predisposition for cellulite. Therefore, they can also Even slim women can suffer from cellulite . Lifestyle factors can also influence the appearance of cellulite. For example, being overweight can accentuate the dimples. Hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, and high stress levels can also increase the risk of developing cellulite.

It's important to understand that cellulite is purely a cosmetic issue and not a disease. Generally, cellulite does not cause any other symptoms or discomfort.

Want to learn more about cellulite? You'll find many helpful articles in our journal:


Balz Schürmann

Cellulite on the buttocks


Balz Schürmann

What is cellulite?


Cellulite on the buttocks

Cellulite on the buttocks

What is lipedema and how can I recognize it?

While cellulite is an aesthetic problem, lipedema is a chronic fat distribution disorder and therefore a medical condition. In lipedema, the subcutaneous fat tissue thickens, causing nodules to form and harden.

Patients with lipedema report that the circumference of the affected areas increases significantly, resulting in disproportionate body shapes. Lipedema is also associated with a tendency to bruise easily, increased pain sensitivity, and heavy legs. Tension pain can also be a consequence of lipedema. Dimples on the skin's surface are another symptom of lipedema.

Lipedema almost exclusively affects women and is usually congenital. Research has identified hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause as a possible cause. Therefore, the weight of those affected plays only a minor role in lipedema.

What are the differences between lipedema and cellulite?

If you notice dimples on your skin, you might wonder whether it's cellulite or lipedema. It's important to understand the differences so you can assess what's causing the dimples. With lipedema, an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial.

It helps to take a close look at your symptoms. The only symptom of cellulite is dimpled skin: it's particularly noticeable when standing and extends across the thighs and buttocks. This so-called orange peel skin doesn't cause any pain or tightness. The legs feel soft, and there are no nodules to be felt.

The situation is different with lipedema. It is accompanied by serious symptoms that are often a great burden for those affected. These include the following complaints:

  • Nodules under the skin
  • Hardening at the affected areas
  • feeling of heaviness
  • feeling of tension
  • Tendency to bruising
  • Pain upon touch
  • Dents on the skin

If you experience one or more of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor to determine if you might have lipedema. Because it is a chronic condition, appropriate treatment is necessary to alleviate the symptoms.

How is lipedema treated?

If a specialist has diagnosed you with lipedema, they will recommend various treatment options. Currently, there is no cure for lipedema. However, there are several methods that can alleviate the symptoms.

Patients diagnosed with lipedema are typically initially treated conservatively. The focus is on improving lymphatic flow. This can be achieved by wearing compression stockings and using massage to enhance lymphatic drainage. This can also help reduce fluid retention. Exercise can also be beneficial, as it improves metabolism.

In some cases of lipedema, surgical treatment can also be helpful. This could involve, for example, liposuction. However, the type and stage of lipedema are crucial factors.

What helps with severe cellulite?

Cellulite is purely a cosmetic issue, but it can still be a burden for those affected. Because cellulite is caused by weak connective tissue, it is very difficult to prevent. Once the dimples have formed, they are usually very difficult to disappear.

Exercise can help. Physical activity strengthens muscles and improves blood circulation, which can have a positive effect on cellulite. The same applies to a healthy diet. It can not only help you lose weight but also provide your body with all the essential nutrients and vitamins.

Similar to lipedema, massages can also help with cellulite. They stimulate lymphatic drainage and can reduce water retention. Alternating hot and cold showers are also recommended for cellulite, as they are said to improve blood circulation.

While all these tips can bring about minor improvements, they probably won't significantly reduce the unsightly dimples. That's why we at skin689 searched for a solution and developed our innovative active ingredient CHacoll.

Anti-cellulite cream from skin689: Smoothes the skin at a structural level

Many cellulite creams only work on the surface and therefore have no lasting effect on the skin's appearance. In contrast, the innovative active ingredient CHacoll from skin689 penetrates into deeper layers of the skin and thus combats cellulite at a structural level.

It promotes collagen synthesis in the subcutaneous tissue, which strengthens the fibers. This allows them to retain fat cells more effectively, thus preventing the formation of cellulite. As a result, our products achieve a long-lasting effect.

The effectiveness of our patented active ingredient CHacoll is clinically proven and convinces even experts:

"With its own patented active ingredient CHacoll®, Skin689 targets exactly where it's needed: weakened connective tissue. The active ingredient stimulates neocollagen synthesis – thus strengthening the dermis, pushing fat cells downwards and making the skin surface smoother."
Quote from the interview with Prof. Dr. Oellinger

We recommend our Anti-cellulite cream : It significantly improves the appearance of cellulite within a few weeks. The skin appears firmer and smoother – the dimples disappear over time. The cream is applied to the affected areas morning and evening. It absorbs quickly and leaves behind a wonderful fragrance.

If you desire a firmer stomach and defined hips, then our Firm Skin Tummy & Hips Cream The ideal choice. The cream also contains CHacoll and strengthens the collagen fiber network, visibly tightening the affected areas. Initial results can be expected after four to twelve weeks.

The effectiveness of our products against cellulite has been proven in clinical studies. Customers have also reported that our creams and the active ingredient CHacoll have helped them with their lipedema. However, we have not yet commissioned any studies specifically on this.

Our products are manufactured exclusively in Switzerland and are exceptionally effective. Find the perfect anti-cellulite cream for your needs now:

Balz Schürmann

Anti-cellulite cream


Balz Schürmann

Anti-cellulite cream

Lipedema or cellulite: Get a diagnosis & treat problem areas correctly

If you are unsure whether you have cellulite or lipedema, you should consult a doctor. Once you have a diagnosis, you can then seek effective treatment.

For cellulite, the highly effective creams from skin689 are the perfect choice. They have a deep-penetrating effect that produces long-lasting results. Within just a few weeks, cellulite can be visibly reduced and problem areas appear significantly firmer.

Test our products and see for yourself how effective they are!

Sources:
lipohelp.com/lipoedem-or-cellulite/
zdfheute.de/ratgeber/gesundheit/cellulite-behandlung-orangenhaut-100.html
malakoff-klinik.de/ratgeber/lipoedem-oder-cellulite/

lipoedem-zentrum-muenchen.de/ratgeber/lipodem-oder-cellulite/

Veröffentlicht am: 18. December 2025
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Frequently asked questions about lipedema and cellulite

At what age does lipedema typically occur?

Many lipedema patients report that the condition first appeared during periods of hormonal change. More than half of those affected state that they first noticed the lipedema during puberty. It is therefore not uncommon for lipedema to appear as early as age 12 to 14. Lipedema can also develop during pregnancy or menopause.

Can slim women also have lipedema?

Yes, even slim women can be affected by lipedema. This fat distribution disorder occurs regardless of the affected person's weight and is usually triggered by hormonal fluctuations. Therefore, lipedema can occur in both slim and overweight women.

How long do the results of the anti-cellulite cream from skin689 last?

Ouranti-cellulite cream is highly effective and penetrates deep into the skin. The structural improvement of the skin typically lasts from a few months to a year. Many users tell us that they apply the cream once a year for three months and are then delighted with their firmer skin.