Cellulite is dimpled skin that appears mainly on the thighs and buttocks, but can also occur on the breasts, upper arms, hips and lower abdomen. It's often referred to as "cottage cheese" or "orange peel" because of it's bumpy appearance, and affects approximately eight in 10 women of all shapes and sizes.
Though cellulite is not harmful and most doctors see it as normal, many women find it frustrating because it is difficult to get rid of cellulite and many don't like its appearance. A dermatologist will often be able to suggest the best skin treatments for cellulite elimination on a case-by-case basis.
What is Cellulite and Why Does it Happen?
Cellulite patches occur over the fat deposits that develop around the fibrous cords that connect skin to muscle. Fat beneath the surface of the skin pushes outward, while the connective tissue is pulling the opposite way to connect the skin to muscle, causing a rippled effect. It is more common in the thighs and buttocks because that is where a lot of fat is stored, especially in women.
This layer of skin is surrounded by a liquid system that rids it of waste deposits and other toxins. Cellulite can be even more pronounced when these waste products are not properly flushed out because their storage causes the fibrous tissues to get thicker, increasing the depth of the dimples.
Creams and Other Tactics for Cellulite Reduction
Cellulite gels, lotions and skin firming creams infuse a woman's problem areas with moisture and can temporarily reduce cellulite's appearance. Many of these products work by plumping up the skin with moisture to make it look better, but are temporary fixes.
Endermologie treatments also work to temporarily reduce cellulite. The French method is FDA approved and releases cellulite-causing toxins using a machine that massages the skin and improves circulation. It takes 10 to 15 treatments to see results and afterward, monthly maintenance is required.
Other temporary fixes include self-tanners, which instantly brighten the skin to make cellulite harder to see, and laser treatments, which apply light and massage twice a week to problem areas for results that can last up to six months.
Cellulite Solutions That Combine Diet and Exercise
Fat deposits cause cellulite to appear, so if a woman lowers her body fat by eating a healthy diet, it is likely that the appearance of cellulite will begin to soften. Exercise also improves circulation and increasing blood flow to the area helps make skin more supple. Strengthening the muscles in the buttocks and thighs helps reduce the appearance of cellulite because it tones and firms these problem areas. Choose a strength training program that focuses on the lower body for best results.
Diet and exercise won't get rid of cellulite completely, however. It is important to eat healthfully (including whole grains, leafy vegetables and lean proteins) because crash diets cause the body to store fat because it is not getting enough calories to survive. This works against the goal of cellulite elimination because more stored fat in the affected areas will increase the rippled effect.
The Bottom Line on Cellulite Elimination
Because cellulite is determined mainly by genetics, it will vary in appearance and stubbornness from woman to women. Other factors that can increase its likelihood include:
- Stress
- Smoking
- Hormonal contraceptives like birth control
- Insufficient water intake (Water helps flush toxins from the body. Aim for 12 cups per day.)
By reducing these risk factors, in addition to exercise, a healthy diet and regular skin treatments, the way cellulite looks on the body can be greatly improved.
Sources:
- "Cellulite--Causes and Cures," by Linda O'Byrne, Real Solutions Mag
- Cellulite, MayoClinic.com
Heidi Lowry - Heidi Lowry is an American writer.
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