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Myths and Facts About Cellulite Shirley Dillaman
Most women at some point in their lives will notice cellulite somewhere on their bodies. Myths have persisted for decades that it can be cured with creams or that it will just go away by losing weight. That is not the case. Learn the facts about why women (and some men) have dimply, bumpy fat and how new treatments can effectively reduce its appearance.
What Is Cellulite?
Cellulite occurs when fat, usually on the buttocks or thighs, pushes through layers of connective tissue to produce a dimpled, uneven appearance. The strength of this connective tissue, or collagen, is affected by a host of factors including hormones, genetics, muscle tone and blood circulation. Although genetics plays a large factor, there are several things to do to fight the condition.
Four Common Myths 1. Cellulite is caused by toxins present in the body. This popular myth has women believe if they eliminate junk foods or drink enough water, they can flush dimpled fat away. Proponents of this myth will try to encourage women to buy over-the-counter products claiming to eliminate toxins from the body. No scientific study has proven this claim to be true. Fact: Cellulite is not caused by toxins. It is simply fat that has pushed through collagen layers to reveal a dimpled appearance. In addition to buttocks and thighs, other common trouble areas are the upper arms and stomach, especially if stretch marks are present. 2. Cardio is the best exercise to eliminate lumps.
This myth plays into the idea that losing weight will cure cellulite. While it is true that maintaining a healthy weight will reduce fat and improve overall appearance, cardio exercise alone cannot reverse it. Fact: Scientific studies have shown that pairing strength training with a weight loss regimen reduced the appearance of dimples by adding muscle tone and firmness to problem areas. 3. Liposuction is the best way to
permanently remove it. People assume that if they have fat surgically removed by liposuction, it will magically cure cellulite. Fact: Liposuction can actually make lumpy fat deposits more noticeable by making the distribution of fat more irregular and uneven. A better solution is a non-surgical procedure called Endermologie. During this process, a suctioning tool is applied to the patient’s trouble spots which rolls, pulls and squeezes the skin for about 30 minutes per session. This action evens out dimpled skin for a smoother appearance. Results are noticeable after 10 sessions. 4. Skin creams cure cellulite. This myth has been perpetuated for years with advertising aimed at women looking for a quick fix. Fact: No cream, lotion or other topical products have ever been proven to reduce the appearance of dimply body fat. Although some creams containing retinol may temporarily firm up skin, the effect is fleeting and is nowhere near a permanent solution. A better bet is trying skin filling treatments such as Restylane and Radiesse. These fillers, which are usually injected into the face to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, will smooth out problems areas for an even appearance. The effects last several months but are quite costly. As of now, there is no permanent cure for cellulite. Although new clinical procedures are being developed, women can help themselves reduce its appearance. Maintaining a healthy weight, strength training and eating a healthy diet can go a long way in minimizing its effects.