Cellulite is a widespread condition that roughly 85 percent of women have to contend with. No need to worry, though, as there are several ways to make it not so apparent. Keep reading to learn what cellulite is and how you can treat it with both surgical and at-home remedies.
What is Cellulite?
Cellulite is a condition that causes the skin to appear dimpled and lumpy, similar in look top “orange peel skin,” as many unaffectionately call it.
Although the exact cause of this condition still eludes researchers, its formation has something to do with an interaction between fat and connective tissue just beneath the skin.
Cellulite affects women far more often than men because women’s connective tissue and the fat below the skin arrange vertically — cellulite forms when fat cells push into this layer of tissue. Men’s connective tissue assumes a criss-cross, which decreases the likelihood of the condition occurring.
Cellulite develops due to this tissue pulling down on the skin, resulting in an uneven surface. Researchers believe two factors can directly spur the formation of this condition. The first is when the connective tissue, called septae, harden, and contract. The other cause is when the fat cells themselves push into the surface layer of skin and septae, which worsens the condition. Other factors like hormones and age, genetics, and lifestyle choices can also influence the development of cellulite.
Having reviewed the causes of cellulite, what can you do to treat the condition? Keep reading to find out.
Ways to Treat Cellulite
Losing Weight
One of the principal factors influencing cellulite is the presence of fat, so it would seem reasonable that a strict diet and exercise will solve this problem.
It actually could, but much depends on your skin’s elasticity. In some cases, even when you lose weight, cellulite can become more evident. Whether this happens or not mostly depends on your genetics.caf
Topical Remedies
One of the principal factors leading to the formation of cellulite is the presence of fat, so it would seem reasonable that a strict diet and exercise will solve this problem.
The first category are topical creams containing caffeine, which smooths out your bumpy skin thanks to its tightening effect. The second one deals with vitamin A and its derivatives, which thickens the skin and makes the bumps less visible.
For the best results, apply the cream liberally to help plump up the skin. These methods don’t usually offer a long-term solution on their own but can help when combined with other treatments.
Professional Cosmetic Procedures
If you badly need a more long-lasting solution, a plethora of more hands-on options exist from which you can choose.
The most direct option, called a subcision procedure, is minimally invasive and entails a doctor using a small blade to cut out the troubling connective tissue.
Endermologie is a spa treatment that involves kneading the skin with a device that will assist in boosting your circulation and collagen production. You’ll need about six sessions of this mechanical massage treatment obtain the subtle but desired results.
You can also get laser treatments that help produce more collagen, release some of the fibrous septae, shrink your fat cells, and improve your skin’s elasticity and texture.
The main issue with these cosmetic treatments is that they do not offer permanent results. You’re going to have to undergo maintenance treatments for an extended period to keep your skin’s look.
The treatments with the longest-lasting results are usually the more aggressive procedures. These results can last you quite a while, depending on how well you care for your body afterward. Note that while some think liposuction can help with cellulite, it can actually worsen the condition by making the fat more dimpled than before.