What is Cellulite? The Causes and How to Get Rid of It
Cellulite is a common condition that affects many people. It gives the skin a dimpled appearance due to underlying fat deposits. It usually appears on the thighs and buttocks, and usually begins appearing after puberty. Approximately 90% of women will experience cellulite during their lives.
The medical terms for cellulite include adiposis edematosa, dermatopanniculosis dermans, status protrusis, and gynoid lipodystrophy. Common names include cottage cheese skin, orange peel syndrome, and hail damage.
Causes of Cellulite
While not well understood, there are several theories as to the causes of cellulite, including:
• Hormones
• Genetics
• Diet
• Lifestyle
• Clothing
Treating and Removing Cellulite
Cellulite is often classified using three grades:
• Grade 1 exhibits no outward symptoms, but underlying changes can be seen via a microscope.
• Grade 2 has the skin showing a pastiness and a decrease in elasticity.
• Grade 3 presents with visible roughness of the skin.
While cellulite can affect both sexes, it is more common in women because they are likely to have the type of fat and connective tissue that can cause cellulite. Luckily for those affected by cellulite, there are several treatments to reduce the look of cellulite, including:
• Lymphatic flow and pneumatic massage
• Heat therapy
• Magnetic therapy
• Endermologie
• Radial wave therapy
• Ultrasound
There are also cellulite removal treatments that are supposed to work on fatty tissue; however, none have been proven to be effective. These include oral, topical, and injection treatments such as:
• Caffeine and theobromine
• Alpha-antagonists
• Amino acids
• Indian chestnut
• Ginkgo biloba
Other treatments include wearing compression garments to compress arteries, increase blood/lymph flow to reduce the appearance. One of the most effect treatments is eating a healthy diet and engaging in a regular exercise routine to reduce fat content, which will in turn reduce the appearance of cellulite.
St. Louis Laser Liposuction Center
Dr. Thomas Wright and his staff at the St. Louis Laser Liposuction Center understand how cellulite can affect a person, especially her self-confidence and self-esteem. Says Dr. Wright, “I understand that cellulite can be a particularly distressing condition. It can preclude people from wearing certain types of clothing and avoiding situations that may put the cellulite on display.”
If you are concerned about cellulite, we invite you to schedule a consultation where Dr. Wright and our staff can help you find options that will reduce the appearance of cellulite.
