Don’t despair, you’re not alone! Most women have a little cellulite and share your frustration and agony; about 10% of men suffer from it.
Cellulite is simply normal fat underneath the skin, appearing bumpy as it pushes against connective tissue, giving the skin a dimpled appearance. It makes its unwelcome appearance on the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen. It is most common in adolescent and adult women. It is often referred to as orange peel or cottage cheese thighs.
It is far more common in women than in men, because of the way our fat is distributed; women’s fat is normally distributed in the hips, thighs, buttocks and abdomen. Even lean people can have it.
It is more common as we age due to the skin losing elasticity.
Myth has it, that it is caused by toxins in the body, however this is simply not true.
What Causes it?
Hormones
It is believed that estrogen, insulin and thyroid hormones are just three of the culprits playing a role in the development of this very frustrating problem.
Diet
A diet high in fats, carbohydrates and salt can contribute to its development.
Lifestyle factors
Smoking, a sedentary lifestyle or even staying in the same position for too long can all contribute to its development.
Tight clothing
This can constrict circulation and add to the problem.
Genetics
Bad circulation and slow metabolism contribute to the development of cellulite. It tends to run in families.
Smoking
Blood vessel flow is reduced and disrupts the formation of collagen. Connective tissue can be damaged more easily, causing fat to show through.
Prevention
- A healthy, well balanced diet consisting of plenty fiber, fruit and vegetables.
- Exercise regularly- Yoga moves will work those legs and butt! Yoga will also calm the mind and reduce stress, which is another contributing factor. Strength training will slowly increase the amount of lean muscle tissue in your legs and buttocks. Maintaining a healthy weight really does make a difference.
- Have good quality sleep, this is so important! At least seven hours of sleep a night.
- Stay hydrated, drink plenty of water, this keeps the connective tissue strong and supple.
- Wear loose underwear, thongs or even boy shorts as tight elastic is not a good idea, cutting into your skin worsening the problem.
Treatments
Weight Loss and Strength Training
This will strengthen muscles in thighs, buttocks and abdomen, and will most definitely lessen cellulite and improve the overall appearance.
Laser and Radiofrequency treatments
This includes tissue massage, radiofrequency technology and infrared light. The result: overall improvement that lasts up to 6 months.
Liposuction
Laser-assisted liposuction is new and less invasive, and has shown promising results.
Topical treatments
It has been found that a twice daily application of retinol cream has shown to improve the overall appearance after 6 month’s application. Skin firming creams and cellulite body wraps have shown very little success and, if any, are very short lived.
Mesotherapy
This involves an injection of a solution under the skin. It is however not advisable as several reactions including infection and rashes have been reported. This is a relatively new approach and long term effects on the body is not yet known.
Skin Fillers
Skin fillers like Restylane used to plump up cheekbones are very beneficial, however very costly and need to be done on a regular basis as results are temporary.
Endermologie
This is really beneficial improving the overall look.
The best and safest path to follow would be to avoid heavy cosmetic procedures, start with special training, remember that not only will your overall look improve, it is also so healthy for your entire body!
Please call or email Mederm Esthetics about Laser Hair Removal or to schedule your free consultation.
Please call or email Mederm Esthetics about Laser Hair Removal or to schedule your free consultation.
We Make Beautiful Skin Happen!