Cellulite is a condition in which the skin appears to have areas with underlying fat deposits, giving it a dimpled, lumpy appearance. It is most noticeable on the buttocks and thighs, and usually occurs after puberty.
Cellulite is also known as adiposis edematosa, dermopanniculosis deformans, status protrusus cutis, and gynoid lipodystrophy in the medical field and as orange peel syndrome, cottage cheese skin, hail damage, and the mattress phenomenon in colloquial language.
Dermatologists say that cellulite may affect up to 90% of women at some point in their lives.
Cellulite is often classified using three grades:
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 (like an orange peel) along with all grade 2 signs.
Although cellulite can affect both sexes, it is much more common in females, mainly because they are more likely to have particular types of fat and connective tissue.
Causes of cellulite
The causes of cellulite are not well understood, but there are several theories that have been put forth as explanations. Among these are:
Hormonal factors – hormones likely play an important role in cellulite development. Many believe estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones, and prolactin are part of the cellulite production process.
Genetics – certain genes are required for cellulite development. Genes may predispose an individual to particular characteristics associated with cellulite, such as gender, race, slow metabolism, distribution of fat just underneath the skin, and circulatory insufficiency.
Diet – people who eat too much fat, carbohydrates, or salt and too little fiber are likely to have greater amounts of cellulite.
Lifestyle factors – cellulite may be more prevalent in smokers, those who do not exercise, and those who sit or stand in one position for long periods of time.
Clothing – underwear with tight elastic across the buttocks (limiting blood flow) may contribute to the formation of cellulite.
Cellulite treatments and removal
There are several therapies that have been suggested to remove cellulite, but none have been supported in the scientific or medical literature.
Therapeutic methods for cellulite that are physical or mechanical include:
pneumatic massages
massages that stimulate lymphatic flow
heat therapy
ultrasound
radio frequency therapy
magnetic therapy
radial waves therapy
endermologie
electrical stimulation
Unfortunately, none of these methods have been scientifically proven to work.
A second class of cellulite removal strategies consists of drugs that are supposed to act on fatty tissues. There is a wide range of pharmacological agents which are used for getting rid of cellulite, including:
methylxanthines (caffeine and theobromine)
pentoxifylline
beta-agonists and adrenaline
alpha-antagonists
amino acids
ginkgo biloba
rutin
Indian chestnut
Cellulite may affect up to 90% of women at some point in their lives.
People with cellulite have tried to apply these agents topically, orally, or by injection, but none have been proved effective.
Some people with cellulite wear special clothing called compression garments to reduce the appearance of cellulite. These garments try to compress arteries and increase blood and lymph flow to reduce visual cellulite.
Cellulite reduction techniques such as liposuction and dieting actually do not remove cellulite. However, eating a healthful, balanced diet and exercising may be the best way to reduce the fat content in cells and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Do anti-cellulite creams work?
There is currently no medical research to support the effectiveness of anti-cellulite creams in getting rid of cellulite.
Dr. Lisa M. Donofrio, an assistant professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine, and Tulane University School of Medicine, said in 2003 that there is no scientific proof that anti-cellulite creams work, and there is no concrete way to measure cellulite, either. She tells her patients that cellulite is normal, and is likely the product of genetics and hormones.
Dr. Garry S. Brody, a professor of plastic surgery at the University of Southern California agrees with this statement: “Women who believe that they can eliminate cellulite through creams, or even weight loss, are likely to be disappointed.”
He continued: “So-called cellulite is the natural anatomic contour characteristic of many women’s thighs and buttocks. It is unrelated to weight gain or loss. There is absolutely no surgical or medical solution to women’s dislike of this appearance except for the psychological self-deception of wanting to believe the ads.”
Cellulite prevention
Exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing stress are recommended to prevent cellulite. In addition wearing thongs, boyshorts, or looser fitting undergarments can prevent cellulite that might form due to tight elastic.
Moreover, eating healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and fiber can help one to avoid cellulite. Other cellulite-fighting foods and natural remedies include (via Dr. Axe):
Clean protein sources – High quality, organic protein like grass-fed beef, free-range poultry, pastured eggs, wild caught fish, and organic protein powder can increase metabolism and aid in cellulite reduction. Aim to consume at least 4 oz per meal.
Potassium rich foods – Flush excess fluids and waste out of cells which can reduce cellulite. Green leafy vegetables,avocados, bananas, coconut water and cultured dairy are high in potassium.
Bone Broth – Contains the amino acids proline and glycine that make up collagen. The collagen in bone broth can strengthen your tissues and heal the cause of cellulite.
EFA’s and MCFA’s – Coconut and wild caught fish contain fatty acids that promote healthy tissue.
Gotu Kola (30mg 3x daily) – Helps increase formation of new collagen, improves circulation, and reduces fluid retention.
Dandelion (take as directed or as tea 3x a day) – This diuretic herb works well because it also contains potassium to keep electrolytes balanced.
Ginkgo Biloba (170 mg daily or as cream) – Increases rate of blood flow by around 57 percent according to one German study.
Herbs Parsley and Cayenne (2-6g daily) – Together these herbs can increase circulation and reduce fluid retention.
Grapefruit Essential Oil Rub – For a cellulite rub (see recipe below) to reduce the appearance of cellulite, mix grapefruit essential oil with coconut oil and massage into area 1-2x daily.
Grapefruit Cellulite Cream
While it was mentioned earlier that there is no scientific evidence to prove that cellulite creams work, this all-natural remedy is free of chemicals and contains grapefruit essential oil, which is made up of large amounts of the anti-inflammatory enzyme bromelain that helps break down cellulite.
Total time: 2 minutes
Ingredients:
30 drops grapefruit essential oil
1 cup coconut oil
Glass Jar
Instructions:
Mix grapefruit essential oil and coconut oil together.
Store in glass container.
Rub into areas of cellulite for 5 minutes daily.
Source: http://familylifegoals.com/