The Slimming Serum That Actually Masked My Cellulite

There are plenty of too-good-to-be-true products out there. Of those, many claim to get rid of cellulite.

News flash: you aren't getting rid of cellulite from a bottle, ladies. But you already knew that, right? (Hopefully not from experience.)

The pros behind Kerstin Florian agree. Yes, they might have made a body-slimming serum, but they're realistic. They understand that feeling and looking good all depends on what you're putting into your body and how you're treating yourself. Load up on leafy greens, exercise to clear your mind, meditate — just do you, for lack of better words. But if you need a little extra oomph when it comes to looking taut and toned (after endless leg raises and lunges), I do have to say that the Intensive Slimming Serum ($85) really does show results.

Just to give you some perspective: I'm a healthy weight, and I admire people like Jennifer Lopez and Iggy Azalea because we have similar body shapes. Not so shockingly, the back of my thighs? They're not perfect. So I tried out the Slimming Serum in two ways — using it daily after my shower, and during an intense body slimming treatment at California's The Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills Spa.

Let's start with the treatment. After getting dry brushed to get my lymphatic system going, the serum was massaged into my arms, skin, legs, and stomach — a rather relaxing way to apply a firming potion. Afterward, I felt rejuvenated and, to my surprise, my body looked toned almost immediately! Here's why: the serum is filled with ingredients like black pepper, caffeine, and ginger extract, which is known to help stimulate lipolysis. What the heck is that, you ask? Lipolysis is the term you want to look for in any firming cream or serum. According to Charlene Florian herself: "Lipolysis is the breakdown of fats and lipids in fat cells. . . . It's important because it helps reduce fatty tissue in unwanted areas, which can redefine body contours." This is where the toning comes from!

The serum also contains kombucha. Yes, that rancid-smelling drink some of you fancy. (More power to you.) It's great for improving your skin's texture and reversing the effects of sugar, which breaks down collagen — something my sweet tooth knows all too much about. Finally, there's global daisy extract. Think of this ingredient as one that incubates your cells so they don't age as rapidly.

As for the after-shower routine, I like the serum because it isn't sticky, and it's easily absorbed into the skin. So if you're not a lotion gal, you'll appreciate how quickly this works, without feeling like you're drenched in a glove of heavy whipped cream.

Sure, it's a beauty investment, but one you'll be happy to make if you want subtle yet noticeable changes to your skin.

Kerstin Florian Intensive Slimming Serum, $85

Kerstin Florian Intensive Slimming Serum, $85