Cellulite develops when the fat underneath the skin pushes up between the connective tissue bands in the skin. This causes the skin to appear textured or “lumpy.” While it can affect both men and women, cellulite is more common in women. This is due to the way that women’s bodies store fat and due to the way that women’s connective tissue is structured. Hormonal factors affecting metabolism can cause some women to be more likely to develop cellulite. Studies have shown that genetics, age, nutrition, pregnancy, and lifestyle also play a role.
However, most women experience the condition at some point in their life.
Cellulite treatments tackle the treatable aspects of the condition: collagen, fat, and circulation. The treatments are effective because they can stimulate collagen production, reduce fat, and increase blood circulation to the region. The severity of the cellulite will determine the type of treatment needed.
There are three grades of cellulite;
Grade 1: Cellulite appears only when you pinch the skin or sit down.
Grade 2: Cellulite is visible when standing and sitting.
Grade 3: Cellulite is visible and severe with deep valleys. It appears when sitting, lying down, or standing.
As the treatments depend on the grade, the invasiveness of the procedures varies.
Some over-the-counter topical creams can be used to target the fat element of cellulite. Creams containing caffeine stop the body from producing and storing fat, tighten the skin, dilate blood vessels to increase circulation, and break down fat. Creams containing L carnitine get the body to turn fat into energy, increase blood vessel formation, and enhance collagen production. It can often take a long time before results are seen with creams.
Other treatments include; Acoustic Wave Therapy utilizes a handheld device to apply acoustic waves to the treatment area. The technique improves skin elasticity by stimulating inflammation in the lower layers of the skin. This helps to produce collagen, which will reduce the appearance of cellulite by tightening the skin. The technique also increases circulation, disrupts the fibrous bands, and breaks down fat cells. Each session lasts approximately 30 minutes and 6 – 10 sessions are required.
The VelaSmooth device combines Infrared and Radiofrequency with vacuum technology to treat cellulite. The device manipulates the skin using a vacuum while applying infrared light and radio frequency to the area. This system destroys fat cells and stimulates collagen production.
The Endermologie device combines deep tissue massage with suction and vibration to treat cellulite. It increases circulation and collagen production while breaking up fat cells. There have been advances made with at-home devices; however, efficacy varies.
The most invasive methods of treatment are known to have longer-lasting results. These include;
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Subcision utilizes a needle to cut and release the connective tissue bands.
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Vacuum-assisted precise tissue release uses a device containing blades to cut the connective bands thereby reducing the appearance of cellulite on the surface.
