As a rule, we’re typically wary of topical cellulite-reducing creams that promise to tone and slim limbs by merely slathering on blood-flow-stimulating and muscle-contracting ingredients. “The question remains how much of any of these ingredients is really being absorbed into the skin to cause any long-term effect,” dermatologist Dr. Sapna Westley once explained to us, confirming our suspicions. Still, the fact remains that these lotions remain incredibly popular this time of year. We understand the fascination, of course; getting yoga-fied arms without all the yoga sounds like a dream come true—and just might be possible, if you’re buying what Orlane is selling, which a lot of people apparently are. The French brand’s Refining Arm Cream is reportedly a best seller at Neiman Marcus and promises to increase definition and “visible firmness” to arms, with shiitake-mushroom extracts that boost the activity of collagen to enhance tone, Peruvian chamomile to reduce the formation of fat cells, and sweet-almond proteins that act to help restore definition. The application instructions are no joke: The directions suggest applying the luscious cream in circular motions in upward strokes toward your heart, twice a day, for six weeks straight—no breaks—which means by August 1, the joy of tank top wearing could take on a whole new meaning. Beauty challenge, accepted.
