What are cottage cheese legs?

Cottage cheese legs are legs with a dimpled appearance from cellulite deposits. Cellulite occurs when fat cells bulge into the middle layer of skin. These fat accumulations pull on surrounding connective tissue, which hardens over time to create the cottage-cheese-like pattern associated with cellulite.

Cellulite forms when cell walls weaken and no longer hold fat deposits smoothly in place. Cellulite formation is related to the female hormone estrogen and is uncommon in men. It is most common in the thigh area. Proper nutrition, regular hydration and avoiding harmful substances help minimize cellulite development. Laser treatments are available to remove cellulite surgically.