How To Get Rid of Cellulite

Cellulite is a term that can cause a shudder in even the toughest soul.  Every year, millions of people snatch up the latest product the promises to banish this bane of the smooth thighs, spending billions of dollars.  But, just what is cellulite and how can you get rid of it?

Cellulite is that orange peel texture, the dimpling, on skin.  Most common on the hips, thighs and buttocks of women, these deposits of fatty and fibrous tissue can strike any part of the body and is not confined to just one gender.  Men can get cellulite too, although it is more common in women. 

Cellulite is a combination of toxins and fat that accumulate in the body.  Hormones can play a part in the appearance and can exacerbate the condition.  It makes the skin appear lumpy, hence the term "cottage cheese thighs."  This occurs because the fatty deposits under the skin begin pushing toward the surface.

While it is most often associated with overweight women, in truth, it can affect both men and women who are any body type, weight and size.  Roughly 85-98% of adult females, though, do display some degree of cellulite.  Interestingly, it is also more prevalent in Caucasian females than in Asian females.  Many experts believe that this is an indication that diet may play a role in the production and appearance in cellulite deposits, even though weight management does not seem to have a significant impact on the condition.

While the most common occurrences are seen in heavier body types and statistics support this, it is not uncommon to see the condition in lighter weight and finer framed women as well.  But, this disorder even presents in males, although it is not usual or reported nearly as often as in women.

Modern science has pinpointed several factors that may contribute to the appearance of cellulite :

1.  Pre existing hereditary makeup.  The propensity to develop cellulite seems to originate from one or both parents or even family members further down the genetic line.  Most common, though is that if the parents developed cellulite, the child may have a tendency to develop the condition post puberty.

2.  Dehydration.  The most vital fluid that the human body needs is water.  A form of dehydration occurs when the body does not have adequate water intake.  It has an important function in the body's makeup in that it helps to flush toxins and waste.  Doctors suggest drinking 7-8 glasses of water per day for proper hydration.

3.  Improper diet.  Studies have found that fatty foods, alcohol and caffeine to be major contributors to the appearance of cellulite.  The toxins collect within the fat deposits, inflating them and pushing them to just under the skin.  An interesting element of caffeine is that it adds to the problem when ingested, but it is also an effective and proven treatment for the condition when it is injected into the problem areas.

4.  Smoking.  Smoking hampers circulation in the body which affects the blood saturation in the skin.  This reduces the elasticity of the skin, making cellulite more noticeable and prevalent.

5.  Medication.  Some medications can interfere with the body's natural processes.  This disturbs the purification system that is naturally in place and the toxins are free to invade the fatty deposits and other areas of the body.

While the appearance of cellulite is considered to be aesthetically unpleasing, it is rather benign unto itself.  It may raise implications of a poor diet of undesirable health habits, but there is a distinct emotional impact that presents in low self esteem and social isolation as interactions with others becomes embarrassing or awkward.

Cellulite can be stubborn and in certain individuals it can not be prevented, but there are ways to minimize its appearance:

1.  Firming Creams and Lotions.  Skin tone is an important factor in reducing the appearance of cellulite.  Skin that lacks tone and elasticity is more prone to the appearance of the dimpling and bumping.  Creams and lotions that firm the skin and increase its elasticity can help.

2.  Moisturizer.  Using a moisturizer with a sun block on a daily basis can improve the skin's ability to remain firm and taut.  This will help to retain the fatty deposits and prevent them from pushing toward the surface of the skin and causing the dimpling effect.

3.  Staying Fit.  A body that is in shape and has good muscle tone is less likely to show the signs of cellulite.  A regular exercise routine that combine both cardio and strength training, does double duty in that it firms and shapes problem areas while it improves natural bodily functions while encourages an healthy blood flow to the skin.

4.  A Healthy Diet.  A healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as lean meats and fish, will promote a healthy body and reduce the appearance of cellulite.  It is important to read labels to reduce intake of excess sugar and fat.  Adequate water is also integral.  This means cutting down or eliminating sodas and replacing with water for optimal effects.

As mentioned earlier, Asian women are much less susceptible to the problem and experts believe that this is due to their diet.  Asian women typically have a diet that is rich in fresh vegetables, fish and very little, if any, red meat.

5.  A Detox Diet.  Detoxification diets are engineered to cleanse the body of toxins; Speeding up and enhancing the metabolism while speeding up the digestive system.  Most detox diets require a strict menu of only fresh, natural food, eliminating any food that is processed or refined.

6.  Body Wraps.  Many day spas and some beauty salons offer body wraps.  These wraps are comprised with a natural mixture of algae and seaweed while used in conjunction with lotions that hydrate the skin and improve circulation to the skin.  While it is often effective, it is a temporary solution and should be used in conjunction with other treatments such as a healthy diet and regular exercise.

7.  Injections.  Some physicians can administer injections that contain a minute amount of caffeine.  This treatment has been shown to be quite effective in reducing the size of individual cellulite pockets. 

8.  Liposuction.  This is a more invasive, surgical procedure than simple injections, but is usually very effective.  Doctors do not usually recommend this treatment as a method for cellulite removal because it was initially developed for the removal of deep fat.  However, more and more people are using as a quick fix for cellulite.

9.  Massage Therapy.  A massage therapy technique, endermologie, employs a system of rollers and a vacuum device that manipulates the skin, giving it a smoother appearance and reducing the look of cellulite.  It promotes circulation and it is speculated that this is also aids in treating the condition.

10. Cellulite Treatment Creams.  There are many creams on the market that specifically target cellulite.  These products feature ingredients such as green tea extract which is believed to increase the rate at which fat is broken down and minimized.  Retinol A, an extract of vitamin A, is another ingredient that is extremely popular.  It targets the skin tissue; acting to rejuvenate the area where it is applies.  Algae extract is another ingredient that is believed to aid in breaking down fat under the skin.

If left untreated, cellulite will not go away or get better.  Additionally, it seems to become more pronounced with age.  The quest to find a solution to this problem is never ending and is a billion dollar industry.  However, as of yet, there is no cure. 

Fortunately, there are methods that have been shown in studies to be effective, but there is no quick fix short of surgery.  True prevention and treatment lies in consistent modification of lifestyle and diet.  And even then they only serve to minimize the appearance, not completely eradicate it.

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