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Cellulite is a common term used to describe superficial pockets of trapped fat, which cause uneven dimpling or orange peel skin. It appears in 90 percent of post-adolescent women and is rarely seen in men. Cellulite is typically found in the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen.
Contrary to popular belief, cellulite is not related to obesity; it occurs in overweight, normal, and thin women.
Special importance is placed on hormonal factors since cellulite develops mainly in women during periods of hormonal change, such as puberty, pregnancy, menopause, premenstrual syndrome, and the initial months on birth control pills. Hormones are responsible for regulating the changes in blood flow, lymphatic drainage, fat, and connective tissue, all of which play a role in the formation of cellulite.
Cellulite forms as a result of complex physiological changes to the subcutaneous fat layer.
Cellulite Treatments: Treatments for cellulite remain largely unsuccessful because they only target the appearance of cellulite. But the dimpling on the surface of the skin is merely a symptom of the underlying cause.
Some of the popular treatments for cellulite include the following:
Endermologie is a non-surgical treatment approved by the FDA for cellulite reduction. Endermologie is a patented technique involving a mechanized device with two motorized rollers and regulated suction. This non-surgical and non-invasive device creates a symmetrical skin fold, which allows for deep tissue mobilization to occur and results in reduction of cellulite and loss of inches. Endermologie has been used as a treatment for cellulite reduction and skin toning.
Ultrasound is another non-surgical treatment for cellulite reduction. Some doctors have noted that Endermologie treatment may be more effective in reducing cellulite if preceded by about ten minutes of ultrasound treatment.
Massage increases circulation and lymphatic drainage, reduces muscular spasms, and breaks down adhesions. Body wraps are thought to promote temporary fluid loss through the compression of the wrap, and the massage conducted during the treatment. The wrap may combine one or more substances such as mud, aloe, aromatherapy, and seaweed. Body wraps are generally beneficial for relaxation, as well as softening the skin, but they do not reduce cellulite.
Electric muscle stimulators have been used to apply a direct electrical current into the affected area to break up hardened tissue strands, clustered fat cells, and accumulated fluid. However, the FDA considers promotion of muscle stimulators for cellulite reduction and body contouring to be ineffective.
Liposuction has been used to shape the appearance of accumulated fat layers and cellulite. However, the primary function of the procedure is to remove localized fat areas, not cellulite.
Creams and gels such as Xanthines, Retinoids, and Alpha Hydroxy Acids may work to increase the exfoliation process which regenerates new tightened skin. However, creams and gels are not FDA approved for cellulite removal.
Cellulite cannot be eliminated or effectively reduced by diet and exercise, but diet and exercise can render cellulite more responsive to other recognized methods of cellulite reduction.