What is Cellulite?

Cellulite is a concern to describe the skin when it has a lumpy, dimpled appearance. Usually you will notice it more on the legs and bum area. Generally it is more noticeable in woman, after puberty. However we see it more and more in men and younger children. This may be due to the different hormones present in our water and food available today. The medical term for cellulite is Adiposis Edematosa. The more casual way of referring to this concern is orange peel, hail damage and cottage cheese skin. Cellulite can appear in different intensities, and have therefore been grouped in 3 stages or grades:

  • Grade 1: There are no visible signs of cellulite when looking at the skin, however the anatomical changes are present in the skin and can be seen when examined through a microscope.
  • Grade 2: The visible signs of this grade will include pale skin (poor blood circulation), the area will be cooler to the touch and the skin will have lost elasticity. Symptoms of Grade 1 will also be present.
  • Grade 3: The cellulite is clearly visible when looking at the skin. The skin will also appear rough. Symptoms of Grade 2 will also be present.

What Causes Cellulite?

There are no exact causes of cellulite, however many contributors have been identified:

  • Hormonal Influences: such as Estrogen, Insulin, Noradrenaline, thyroid hormones and Prolactin all form part of the production processes.
  • Genetics: Certain genes may predispose the specific characteristics that’s connected with cellulite e.g. race, gender, slow metabolism, circulation.
  • Food Intake: Fat, Carbs and Salt are huge contributors to an unhealthy lifestyle.
  • Lifestyle: An unhealthy lifestyle will contribute to a better chance of getting cellulite e.g. smoking, sedentary lifestyle, sit or stand long periods of time.
  • Clothing: Tight clothing cuts off the blood supply, therefore certain areas will not get sufficient oxygen and nutrients across. This will result the area to be more prone to cellulite.

Cellulite Removal

Many therapies can help aid in improving and diminishing the cellulite for example Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Ultrasound, RF Therapy, Heat and the latest technology being Tripollar™

Special garments can be used as well to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Exercise and healthy diets have proven to improve the appearance of cellulite. What about Creams for Cellulite? There is no medical research available to prove that there are any creams that can improve cellulite significantly. However firming creams when used in combination with lymph drainage. Cellulite treatments can work very effectively and further enhance the results and firm up the skin on the legs and arms.

How to prevent Cellulite?

The main route to follow is to live a healthy lifestyle. Reduce intake of processed food, opt for balanced diet of vegetables, fruit and protein and avoid ingesting high amounts of carbohydrates. This will include healthy eating, reducing stress, regular exercise- including weigh training, cardio vascular exercise and swimming . Munch your way to a smoother-looking body with these nutritious picks- Salmon, Sunflower Seeds, Chili and Cayenne Peppers, Dark Berries, Apple Cider Vinegar, Green and Herbal Tea, Olive Oil, Dark Chocolate.

The Tripollartm is our most popular cellulite treatment leading up to the summer months to help reduce the appearance of cellulite on the thighs, buttocks, hips, tummy and arms. At Dermology we treat Cellulite with the below two treatments.