Why Men Barely Get Cellulite While Women Do: The Science Feels Personal

You’ve probably heard someone say, “Men don’t get cellulite.” That’s not true. Men can develop it, just far less often. The reasons touch biology, hormones, skin architecture, and lifestyle. Here’s a clear read on what science and clinicians say, plus where treatments stand.

So, do guys get it? Let’s talk Cellulite in Men

Cellulite can show up in men, though it’s uncommon. Bayou City Dermatology says cellulite “affects both men and women,” and is caused by fat under the skin being constricted by fibrous collagen bands, which creates a lumpy look on areas like thighs, butt, hips, and abdomen. According to the clinic, up to 90 percent of women may experience cellulite. Men are affected at lower rates.

Body Sculptor writes that “only 2% of men are affected” and points to structural differences in fat cells and skin as a big reason why men see it less.

The biology: collagen, fat lobules, and why women see it more

A study on 20 men and 20 women explains the mechanics. Women had “34% less collagen fibres and 57% larger fat lobules” in the deep skin compared with men. The authors concluded these structural factors “lead to a significantly reduced biomechanical stability in females compared to males.” The report adds that men have more numerous, smaller fat lobules with stronger collagen “anchors,” which makes upward fat protrusion harder and skin tighter.

HuffPost also reported that dermatology and surgery experts attribute the sex gap to connective tissue patterns, greater subcutaneous fat in typical female distribution, hormonal influence from estrogen, and thinner skin in women.

Where cellulite in men shows up

When it appears, cellulite in men often shows on the stomach, neck, shoulders, arms, and sometimes the hips as “love handles.” Thighs and butt can be involved, but that’s rarer in men. In women, the lower body is more commonly affected.

Similarly, there are three grades of severity: mild with 1–4 shallow depressions, moderate with 5–9, and severe with 10 or more deep depressions and draping.

Hormones, lifestyle, and genes complicate the picture

There are indeed contributors in men. Hormonal imbalances, including higher estrogen, thyroid issues, or reduced testosterone, can shift fat storage and water retention. A sedentary lifestyle and highly processed diets add risk. Genetics can increase predisposition. Aging and lower testosterone with andropause can also increase fat and make cellulite more likely.

Mayo Clinic adds that cellulite involves fibrous cords tethering skin to muscle while fat pushes up, and that hormones and genetics shape skin structure and fat distribution. The clinic stresses that inactive lifestyles and pregnancy can raise odds, and that very fit people can still have cellulite.

Cellulite in men: treatments on the table

For treatments, Bayou City Dermatology cites options used in clinical practice. Qwo is described as “the first-ever injectable” FDA-approved to target cellulite by breaking fibrous bands. Cellulaze uses laser energy on fibrous tissue and is minimally invasive. Surgical options like liposuction or fat transfer exist for select cases.

However, other specialists propose lifestyle changes first. Regular exercise, endurance work, and resistance training can help improve body composition. A diet with fewer ultraprocessed foods and more produce, fiber, lean proteins, and fatty fish supports skin and metabolic health. The site also describes noninvasive techniques in med-aesthetics, including cryolipolysis, external lasers or ultrasound, and electromagnetic muscle stimulation. It cautions on supplements and suggests medical guidance.

Aesthetic Medicine’s expert commentary highlights deep radiofrequency and ultrasound to boost collagen and target fat lobules, aligning with the study’s focus on strengthening the “subdermal interface.”

What the Mayo Clinic and others say about safety and expectations

In the end, doctors call cellulite “very common” and “harmless.” However, many try weight loss, exercise, massage, or creams with “variable success.” Medically proven options exist, but results are not immediate or permanent. Some procedures can improve appearance but carry risks, and realistic expectations are crucial. Doctors recommend discussing options with a primary care doctor or dermatologist.

Body image check: it’s common, and you’re not alone

Finally, clinicians emphasize that cellulite is a normal human experience. Mayo Clinic notes treatment isn’t medically necessary unless appearance concerns you. If you want to address it, you have options backed by evidence, and a path that usually starts with movement, nutrition, and skin health. If you don’t, that’s valid too. Your body is still your body.