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Cellulite is a common condition in which lumpy dimples appear on the skin. It typically occurs on the thighs and buttocks but can also affect other areas. Cellulite happens when fat deposits beneath the skin push through connective tissue.
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Contents
Who Gets Cellulite?
This condition affects about 80-90 of women and is quite common among women between the ages of 40 and 60. There are many proposed natural remedies for cellulite, many of which have temporary effects.
Nonetheless, having an active lifestyle, avoiding smoking and adopting a low-fat can help reduce the occurrence of cellulite.
Other names used for cellulite include cottage-cheese skin, orange-peel skin, the mattress phenomenon, and hail damage.
Both men and women can be affected by cellulite. However, it’s more common in women because of the way their connective tissue, muscle, and fat is distributed.
Cellulite occurs in varying grades of severity. Grade one (mild) cellulite is characterized by an orange-peel skin appearance. The skin has one to four superficial depress as well as a slightly sagging appearance.
With grade two (moderate) cellulite, you have five to nine skin depressions of medium depth. The skin is moderately sagging and has a cottage-cheese appearance.
Grade three (severe) features a ten or more depressions and severely sagging skin with a “mattress” appearance.
Causes of Cellulite
The root cause of cellulite has yet to be discovered. However, it seems to be the result of the interaction between the subcutaneous connective tissue and the fat layer beneath it.
The connective tissue and fat under the skin of women are arranged vertically. Cellulite appears when the fat protrudes through the connective tissue in the dermatological layer.
On the other hand, men’s subcutaneous connective tissue is structured in a crisscross pattern, which the lower occurrence of cellulite in males.
Many other factors are associated with the likelihood of developing cellulite.
1. Age and hormonal factors
Hormones greatly affect the occurrence of cellulite. Some of the hormones that take part in the process of cellulite production include prolactin, thyroid hormones, noradrenaline, insulin, and estrogen.
According to one theory, as menopause draws nearer for women, estrogen levels decrease. As a result, there’s a decrease in blood flow to the subcutaneous connective tissue. Limited circulation interferes with oxygen supply to the area and leads to a reduction in the production of collagen.
Moreover, as the level of estrogen diminish, fats cells expand. Fat deposits become visible as subcutaneous fat protrudes and pushes through the connective tissue and causes the appearance of lumpy dimples.
Additionally, your skin becomes thinner, less elastic and more prone to sagging as you age. The likelihood of cellulite therefore also increases.
2. Genetic factors
Some people are more genetically predisposed to cellulite development than other people.
Some of the genetic factors that vary from one person to another are circulatory levels, distribution of fat beneath the skin, and the speed of metabolism.
These are among the factors that influence your likelihood of developing cellulite.
3. Lifestyle and dietary factors
It’s a myth that toxins cause cellulite. Nonetheless, you can reduce the occurrence and severity of cellulite by adopting a healthy lifestyle: eating a proper diet and exercising regularly.
People who consume too much salt, carbohydrates—and not enough fiber—have a greater chance of developing more cellulite.
Furthermore, cellulite is more prevalent among people who stand or sit in one position for extended period, people who fail to exercise regularly and people who smoke.
Wearing tight undergarments that interfere with blood circulation to the buttocks is also a risk factor for cellulite formation.
However, it is important to note that even if cellulite is more prevalent among individuals that have excess fat, fit and slim people can also get it.
The chances of developing cellulite increasingly markedly after the age of 25, but teenagers and young adults can develop it too.
Getting Rid of Cellulite
Many therapies and remedies for cellulite have been proposed, but none have been supported by concrete scientific evidence. Many of these techniques have been reviewed by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), which has found that some of the remedies can be effective in reducing the appearance of cellulite.
Let’s take a look at the treatments.
Procedures for Getting Rid of Cellulite
- Acoustic wave therapy. In this method, the specialist uses a handheld device that emits sound waves. It requires numerous sessions.
- Laser treatment. This remedy may improve the appearance of the affected area for 12 or more months. The procedure involves the insertion of a small laser probe beneath the skin. A laser is fired into the tissue to break it up. It can also result in increased collagen production which thickens the skin and consequently reduces the appearance of cellulite.
- Subcision. The dermatologist inserts a needle beneath the skin and breaks up bands of connective tissue. According to the AAD, results can last at least two years.
- Vacuum-assisted precise tissue release. In this method, the dermatologist uses a device with small blades to cut the bands of subcutaneous connective tissue. As this happens, the underlying tissue moves up and occupies the spaces beneath the skin and improves the appearance of cellulite. Results may last up to three years. However, the data on the success of the procedure is limited.
- Carboxytherapy. The doctor inserts carbon dioxide beneath the skin. While the method might be effective, the side effects include discomfort and bruising after the procedure.
Enermologie . In this case, the dermatologist lifts the skin using a vacuum-like device. Even though the device has been approved of as safe by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there’s no solid evidence of its effectiveness.- Ionethermie cellulite reduction treatment. In this treatment, special clay or mud is used to cover the affected area. The specialist then wraps plastic around the clay or mud and passes an electric current through it. It has yet proven to be successful.
- Radiotherapy. The specialist aims to use heat to reduce the cellulite; the results are often temporary.
- Laser-assisted liposuction. This treatment removes a little fat. However, this usually results in more dimpling. There’s no evidence showing that this method is effective.
- Ultrasonic
liposcuplting . This procedure targets and eliminated fats but there is no evidence supporting its effectiveness.
Medications and Creams for Getting Rid of Cellulite
Some creams and medication are proposed because of their interaction with fatty acids. Caffeine creams are used because they dehydrate cells and make them less conspicuous.
Retinol thickens the skin and improves the appearance of cellulite, but it takes a few months for results to be apparent. Researchers have also proposed medications that boost circulation and improve cell metabolism.
Natural Remedies for Getting Rid of Cellulite
Besides procedures and pharmaceutical methods, there are many natural cellulite treatments that have been proposed. Let’s take a look at a few.
1. Exfoliating coffee scrub
Among the most effective methods of exfoliation is scrubbing using coffee grounds. This method eliminates dead skin cells, allowing healthy cells to grow in their place. You can stimulate circulation by massaging this scrub, which tightens loose skin resulting from cellulite.
Mix 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil, three tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup coffee grounds to form a paste. Firmly massage the paste onto the affected area for several minutes and wash as usual. Do this no more than thrice weekly.
2. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an excellent natural remedy for many conditions, including cellulite. It contains calcium, minerals, magnesium, and potassium, all of which reduce cellulite, remove toxins, and regulates excess water around the stomach and thighs.
Mix a few drops of honey, two parts of water and one part of apple cider vinegar. Massage the mixture onto the affected area and allow it to rest for about 30 minutes before using lukewarm water to wash it off.
Do this twice daily until you achieve the desired results.
3. Staying well-hydrated
Water is a potent therapeutic agent and detoxifier. Drinking about eight glasses or two liters of water every day is incredibly beneficial as it strengthens your immune system, eliminates bodily toxins and helps give your skin a healthy glow. It may also help with reducing the appearance of cellulite.
4. Dry Brushing
Dry brushing is effective in stimulating circulation, removing dead skin cells, and allowing for the growth of new, healthy skin cells. It is among the most affordable methods of stimulating lymphatic draining, detoxifying the skin, restoring the skin’s healthy glow, and remedying cellulite.
Using a natural bristle brush, brush yourself from your feet to your shoulders. You can brush circular motions as you move up, especially on the stomach area.
Dry brush for five to ten minutes twice daily before taking a shower or going to bed. As the name suggests, it’s important that both the brush and your body remain dry as you brush.
5. Juniper oil
Juniper essential oil does a great job of reducing the body’s fluid absorption. This effect can be quite useful for treating cellulite. Mix 10 drops of juniper oil and 1/4 cup of olive oil then gently rub the mixture onto the affected areas for about ten minutes.
Apply this mixture twice daily for 30 days or until your skin becomes firmer and smoother.
6. Daily moisturizing
In addition to helping improve the appearance of cellulite, daily moisturizing also makes your skin softer and smoother. It should be a daily habit despite the season.
Natural moisturizers are generally preferable to chemical infused ones.
Coconut oil is one of the best natural moisturizers as it has antimicrobial and antifungal properties and is high in saturated fats.
Massaging it on your skin after showering daily can make your skin firmer and improve the appearance of cellulite.
7. Tangerine oil
Tangerine oil is another essential oil that is highly effective in removing toxins from your skin. Like other similar oils, it cuts down fats and stimulates circulation, thus reducing cellulite.
Mix five drops of tangerine oil and one tablespoon of olive oil and massage them on the cellulite for ten minutes. Apply the mixture twice a day and stay away from direct sunlight for at least an hour after application.
8. Omega-3
Together with fat-soluble vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids boost the immune system. As a result, omega-3 smoothens the skin tissues and gradually reduces cellulite. Fish such as Salmon are an excellent source of omega-3.
Alternatively, you can consume one teaspoon of cod liver oil syrup or one cod liver oil capsule daily.
9. Seaweed
Like coffee grounds, seaweed is a natural exfoliating agent. Among the benefits of massaging seaweed onto the affected areas of your skin include detoxification and activation of blood circulation. It also improves your skin health by eliminating cellulite and making it firm and smooth.
Mix a few drops of essential oil, 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup of sea salt and three tablespoons of ground seaweed. Rub them onto the affected area for ten minutes before your shower. Apply moisturizer after the shower. Apply it for one week until you achieve the desired result.
10. Stable hormones
A healthy lifestyle and balanced diet result in stable hormones. In addition to ensuring your body is fit, stable hormones also help prevent and curb cellulite. Make sure your meals are colorful by introducing a wide variety of fish, lean meat, fresh fruit, and vegetables.
Exercise regularly and learn to manage your stress in a healthy way. Such a lifestyle is highly likely to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Check out Lori Ballen’s Method to The Keto Diet.
