Most people believe that cellulite is a weight problem. It is, in fact, a skin problem. It happens when the fat cells start peeping out through the connective tissues of the skin. Cellulite is most commonly seen on the thighs and buttocks. Though it affects both sexes equally, women suffer more due to the higher overall fat content. Cellulite can also be hereditary.
Cellulite is caused by multiple factors:
- Hormonal changes
- Fad dieting
- High carbohydrate and high fat diet
- Dehydration
- Lack of physical activity
- Slow metabolism
- Total body fat
- Color and thickness of the skin
Along with eating healthy, low fat foods such as fruits, vegetables, and fiber, and exercising regularly, reducing stress is recommended to prevent cellulite. In addition, looser fitting undergarments can also prevent cellulite.
Treatment options for Cellulite
- Creams- Cellulite-reduction creams are the most widely used form to treat cellulite. These creams have no proven scientific evidence of treating cellulite. They contain aminophyline, a drug commonly used to treat asthma. The aminophyline constricts the blood vessels, and forces the water out of the skin making it look tighter. Aminophyline can, however, be risky to use in people with circulatory disorders. It is also known to cause severe allergies in many people.
- Liposuction- This method for treating cellulite is very popular due to the myth that cellulite is a fat problem, and not a skin problem. Liposuction helps one get rid of the deep fat, and post liposuction, the cellulite may end up looking even worse.
- Mesotherapy- This therapy includes injecting tiny amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients into the skin. Mesotherapy was originally developed to treat inflammatory skin conditions. Mesotherapy may help by breaking down the fat. But, it also carries the threat of swelling and infections.
- Massage and Spa Treatments- These are the latest fad in cellulite treatment. They have a visible but short-lived effect.
- Lasers and LED Therapy- These costly treatments help in shrinking and dissolving the fats, and also improve collagen formation that tightens the skin.
While all these may be temporary relievers, the best option for cellulite is regular physical exercise. Exercising not only burns the fat, but also combats the causative factors for cellulite.
The most effective exercise regimen includes aerobics and strength training, and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fiber.
