A customer contacted us recently to address cellulite – what causes it and how best to “treat” it. So here is the SKINNY on Cellulite!

 

What is cellulite?

 

 {Cellulite on left}

 

Cellulite is a condition where the skin appears to have areas with fat deposits.  It typically occurs after puberty in the buttocks and thighs & is noticeable due to its dimpled or lumpy appearance.

 

 

Cellulite is most common in women – hooray for us, right!?  Women are more prone to cellulite because women have a thinner epidermis & fat cells are designed differently than men.  Some also contribute cellulite in women due to constrictive underwear.  (See below for additional details).

 

 

The medical terms for cellulite include adiposis edematosa, dermopanniculosis deformans, status protrusus cutis, and gynoid lipodystrophy.  Of course we most commonly know of cellulite as hail damage or cottage cheese skin.

 

 

In the medical field, there are three classifications for cellulite known as Grades 0, 1, 2 & 3.

 

 

Grade 1: Cellulite sees no clinical symptoms, but a microscopic examination of cells from the area detects underlying anatomical changes.

Grade 2: Cellulite requires the skin to show pallor (pastiness), be lower temperature, and have decreased elasticity, in addition to anatomical changes noted by microscopic examinations.

Grade 3: Cellulite has visible roughness of the skin (described to be like an orange peel) along with all Grade 2 signs.

 

What Causes Cellulite?

 

There are really only theories of why cellulite happens.  These theories include, but are not limited to:

 

• Hormones – Many believe estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones, and prolactin contribute to cellulite.
• Genetics – Genes thought to be a contributor to cellulite include gender, race, metabolism, distribution of fat underneath the skin, and circulatory insufficiency.
• Diet – Individuals who have a high fat diet may be prone to cellulite.
• Lifestyle Choices- People who smoke, do not participate in physical activity, and are sedentary most of the day.
• Clothing – Restrictive clothing that limits the blood flow including tight elastic on underwear, skinny jeans, and leggings.

 

How Can I Treat Cellulite?

 

Prevention: Many believe cellulite can be prevented through an active and healthy lifestyle.  Do cardio and lift weights.  Have fat intake be minimal and maintain a healthy weight.

 

We found one source that recommend women not to wear tight underwear or clothing.  They suggested loose underwear or even going commando.  Also, ditch the skinny jeans and leggings!

 

Don’t smoke. Period.

 

Removal of Cellulite:  There are many therapeutic and mechanical methods to helping reduce or get rid of cellulite.  None of these methods have been scientifically proven.

 

• Pneumatic massages
• Massages that stimulate lymphatic flow
• Heat therapy
• Radio frequency therapy
• Magnetic therapy
• Radial waves therapy
• Electrical stimulation
• Body Wrapping

 

Lotions & Potions With Cellulite:  In the beauty industry there are many cellulite creams, gels, exfoliates, and devices.  I cannot make a recommendation because I only share products I have personally tried.  We welcome any comments below for cellulite lotions & potions that have worked for you!

 

What I Have Tried:  *This is my own experience and I am not a medical doctor.  Please know that what I have tried and results I have achieved are strictly my own.

 

A few years ago I worked really hard to rid myself of cellulite.  I set the goal of the summer because I knew I had the time to dedicate to it (I was teaching then).  I had an exercise routine of cardio and weight training.  In the weight training I concentrated a great deal on my hips, buttocks, and thighs.  It was grueling work, but I started to see positive changes in the contours of my body.

 

In the shower I used a mesh cloth that promoted exfoliation.  Exact cloth can be found here.  Everyother day or so, I would use the mesh cloth on my problem areas.  Out of the shower I would apply a rich moisturizer and massage it into my skin.  Exact moisturizer can be found here.

 

I still had some cellulite, but doing all these things consistently paid off.  I found one blog writer who shared:

 

The only true way to prevent cellulite is to lead an all-around healthy lifestyle. It’s all under your control–go bust your butt to make it happen.

 

It truly takes hard work and dedication UNLESS you are just beelpin’ lucky!