Jen Jones
Cellulite is a curse of many women and does not discriminate against weight; overweight, normal weight and slim women are all prone to cellulite. The term cellulite refers to pockets of trapped fat, causing uneven skin. Typically found in the thighs, abdomen, and buttocks of women, cellulite causes an uneven dimpling of the skin. There are no official causes of cellulite as cellulite can be inherited, can be caused by pregnancy, or can be caused by damaged tissue from a surgical procedure. Although there is no cellulite treatment to get rid of cellulite permanently, there are skin resurfacing treatments to temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Endermologie Endermologie is a technique that uses a mechanical device for cellulite reduction. This device has two rollers and a regulated suction, creating a symmetrical skin fold. The skin fold allows for a deep tissue mobilization, increasing blood flow and reducing cellulite. Endermologie is nonsurgical and noninvasive.
It typically takes two months—with two treatments per week—to achieve the desired results. Effects of Endermologie can be noticed after the first month of treatment. Many women opt to have monthly follow-up Endermologie treatments to maintain the results. Although Endermologie can be pricey, several doctors allow for packaged deals to be purchased (such as “pay for nine treatments, get the tenth free”), lowering the overall price.
Creams and Gels
Creams and gels are often used even although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve them as cellulite removal techniques. The lotions can increase the exfoliation process, which revitalizes new and tighter skin. Since cellulite forms when the fat becomes trapped, the exfoliation is an attempt to loosen and spread out the fat, reducing the cellulite. There are three main types of creams and gels used for cellulite reduction: Xanthines, Retinoids, and Alpha Hydroxy Acids.
Xanthines are commonly found in cellulite creams and can stimulate fat metabolism, but are not typically useful in helping reduce the appearance of cellulite. Retinoids have the ability to improve the circulation of blood to the surface of the skin. Alpha Hydroxy Acids can exfoliate the skin and thin the outer layer of skin. Although these creams are able to reduce fine wrinkles in the face, there have been no studies showing a reduction of cellulite in the legs, abdomen, and buttocks.
Electrotherapy
Electrotherapy applies a direct and mild electrical current into the cellulite laden area using an electric muscle stimulator. In order to use the electric muscle stimulator, you need to position the electrodes on the target skin region. This will then prompt the electric current to be sent to the muscles. This stimulator’s electric current breaks up hardened tissue strands, accumulated fluid, and clustered fat cells.
Electric muscle stimulators are approved for various medical procedures, including improving blood circulation, preventing blood clots, and reducing muscle spasms. Although there is no proven evidence that an electric muscle stimulator can remove cellulite, many patients claim that the equipment has reduced their cellulite.
With this dimpling cursing women of all sizes, there is a constant search to find the best technique to reduce the appearance of cellulite. With no way to prevent cellulite from forming, the best that can be done is to lower the visual look of cellulite through Endermologie, creams, gels, and electrotherapy. For the most part, many patients have found positive results after using these treatment methods. If you decide to use one of the cosmetic treatments, keep in mind that you may not have permanent results, but you will probably see a difference in your body after a couple months.
[page updated December 2008]