Cellulite

As the weather warms, it is common practice to shed layers of clothing and get your body ready for swimsuit season. Though the gym may be everyone’s first stop for working on that summer glam, we can help too! A common concern for many men and women during spring and summer is the appearance of cellulite.

Cellulite, also known as skin dimpling, is the term for uneven, lumpy skin commonly found on an individual’s buttocks, thighs, abdomen, or hips. Cellulite forms when fat cells beneath the skin push up against the body’s connective tissue causing the skin to pucker and create dimples or a lumpy texture on the surface. If you are concerned about cellulite and want to look your best, we are pleased to offer our assistance.

Causes

Though the direct cause is unknown, there are a few factors that can contribute to the development of cellulite. As stated above, cellulite is formed by fat cells pushing up against the skin while fibrous muscle tissue pulls it down creating an uneven surface. This means that fat content and weight can play a factor in your likelihood of developing this condition. However, hormones, metabolic rate, diet, physical activity levels, lifestyle, genetics, the thickness of your skin, and age are other contributing factors.

Treatment Options

It is important to note that cellulite cannot be removed by the use of home remedies. Exfoliation scrubs and topical ointments, even if used daily cannot penetrate your skin and treat those troublesome fat cells causing cellulite to occur. Rather home treatments work to temporarily smooth and tighten the skin, but do not target the source.

For permanent and lasting results, we recommend you schedule an appointment with your dermatologist to discuss possible treatment options. During your consultation, be honest with your desired results and concerns so that we can determine which treatment will work best for your needs. Common professional treatment options include:

• Acoustic Wave Therapy and Ultrasound Therapy – These procedures involve breaking up fat under the affected skin using sound waves.
• Cryolipolysis –This procedure involves freezing the fat cells under the affected skin causing them to slowly die and be reabsorbed into the body. This treatment takes time as results occur gradually and multiple treatment sessions may be needed before significant results can be seen
• Laser & Radiofrequency Treatments­ – Depending on the procedure selected, a combination of tissue massage, infrared energy, radiofrequency energy, or laser energy may be used to melt the fat under the skin allowing for the fat cells to be destroyed and absorbed into the body.
• Surgery – Surgical treatment options for cellulite, typically involve using a thin needle to break up the bands that are connected to the skin and cause the dimpling appearance. Treatment is typically minimally invasive and can produce results quicker than other treatment options.

Lower Your Risk

Though it may not be entirely possible to prevent cellulite, there are several steps you can take to lower your risk:

Eat a well-balanced diet. Colorful vegetables and fruits, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, and whole-grain foods as well as watching your sodium intake are all a part of bettering your diet.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. However, dehydration causes your skin to become dry and weaken in the structure allowing cellulite to become more pronounced.

Exercise should be part of your daily lifestyle to better your overall health. Whether you consider hitting the gym a couple of times a week, taking yoga classes, or walking and jogging, exercise and physical activity can help you to maintain a healthy weight and lower your fat content percentage. It is important to note that though cellulite is caused by fat cells, your condition may be genetic, meaning exercise may not offer significant or lasting results.

Visiting our specialists allows you to receive the right treatment to help improve the appearance of cellulite. For more information on cellulite and our treatment options or to schedule a consultation, contact Dermatology and Skin Health today.