Some cellulite creams have included glycolic or lactic acid (AHAs) or scrubs in an effort to somehow exfoliate away bumpy skin texture on the thighs. Theoretically, AHAs come the closest to having the potential for reducing the appearance of cellulite. If cellulite is a problem with skin structure, applying ingredients that help to improve it should make a difference. There are a number of studies demonstrating the effectiveness of AHAs for stimulating collagen synthesis and improving the overall structure of skin. What is important to recognize is that if AHAs can help, you don’t need something labeled as a “cellulite cream.” Any well-formulated AHA gel, lotion, or cream will work. (Sources: Journal of Dermatology, January 2006, pages 16-22; Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, April 2005, pages 1156-1162; Experimental Dermatology, December 2003, pages 57-63; and American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, November-December 2000, pages 369-374.)
In terms of scrubs, there is absolutely no research showing that these have any impact on cellulite. You can’t rub away cellulite or break up fat by rubbing, massaging, scrubbing, or abrading your skin. If anything overzealous scrubbing of the skin damages the skin’s barrier, thereby depleting its structure and core strength, which doesn’t help reduce the appearance of cellulite but can technically make matters worse.