Cellulite (also known as gynoid lipodystrophy or orange peel syndrome) is one of the most common lipodystrophy syndromes, which affects millions of post-adolescent women. Cellulite is manifested by topographic disorders of subcutaneous tissue such as nodules, edema, and abnormal fibrosis.
The causes of cellulite include changes in metabolism, physiology, diet and exercise habits, obesity, alteration of connective tissue structure, hormonal factors, genetic factors, the microcirculatory system, the extracellular matrix, and subtle inflammatory alterations.
Estrogen is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and connective tissue health. A deficiency can weaken the connective tissue structures, allowing any remaining fat to push through and create the appearance of cellulite [45].
As fat cells accumulate, they push up against the skin, while the long, tough cords pull down. This creates an uneven surface or dimpling. In addition, hormonal factors play a large role in the development of cellulite, and genetics determine skin structure, skin texture and body type.
Genetics, sex, age, the amount of fat on your body and your skin's thickness determine how much cellulite you have and how visible it is. As you age, your skin loses elasticity and can make the appearance of cellulite more evident. Gaining weight can also make the appearance of cellulite more prominent.
Symptoms: Lipedema is characterized by pain, tenderness, and unusual fat distribution. In contrast, cellulite is usually painless and relates more to changes in skin texture.
The effects of estrogen deficiency on the skin connective tissue include a decreased production and topical content of both type I and III collagen and elastin fibers, which also contributes to cellulite.
Research shows that impaired lymphatic flow can lead to increased fat deposits under the skin. In turn, these deposits contribute to the visible signs of cellulite. If the lymphatic system is sluggish, it may not clear out these deposits effectively.
Cellulite is not harmful to your health. Most health care providers consider cellulite a normal condition for many women and some men. Many people seek treatment for cellulite because they are bothered by how it looks. Talk to your provider about treatment options.
There's no way to completely eliminate cellulite. Some treatments are available that may reduce its appearance, though. To achieve the best results, work with a reputable health care provider to decide which therapies may be right for you.
Fried or Processed Foods
It's essential to understand that fat isn't necessarily the enemy; in fact, good fats like those from avocados, nuts, and olive oil can benefit our skin and overall health. It's the trans fats and saturated fats often found in fried and processed foods that can aggravate cellulite.
Regarding vitamins, they all have a role to play in cellulite prevention and they can somewhat contribute to its reduction, with perhaps vitamin C (ascorbic acid) being the most important, due to its antioxidant action and its important role on collagen synthesis.
Cellulitis is caused when bacteria, most commonly streptococcus and staphylococcus, enter through a crack or break in the skin. The incidence of a more serious staphylococcus infection called methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is increasing.
Aim to avoid fast foods like burgers, Chinese, McDonalds and Ice Cream. But also be aware of margarine and highly processed fats and oils, BBQ sauces and other condiments high in sugar, unhealthy fats and salt. Say no to fizzy drinks, pasta, chocolate and white bread as these can make cellulite worse.
Celebrities aren't immune to cellulite; they just invest in clinically-proven treatments to help reduce the appearance of their cellulite. There are many treatments on the market for the treatment of cellulite including Avéli, Cellfina, and Cellulaze.
Lipedema and cellulite appear to be very similar to one another, as both can cause your skin to dimple and become uneven, sometimes referred to as a mattress appearance.
Cellulite can be caused by hormonal changes, genetics, weight gain, and more. Here's the kicker: even active, healthy women with good diets still experience cellulite. While lifestyle and diet play a role, cellulite often results from a buildup of toxins and fat.
Hydration is key for reducing the appearance of cellulite. Regular intake of water helps flush out toxins. It also improves skin elasticity, making it look healthier. Aim for at least eight glasses a day, but adjust based on your activity level.
Estrogen is one of the leading hormonal causes of thigh fat because it causes increased levels of fat cells which cause fat deposits to form in and around the thighs. Age can also be a contributing factor because aging results in a slower metabolism, which makes it more difficult to eliminate fat.
Place one hand on the inside of your leg and one hand on the back of your leg, without straining your wrist, hand or arm. Gently stretch and release the skin from the inside of your leg towards the side of your leg and up towards your hip. Shift your hands lower on your leg and repeat.
It stretches skin tissues, redistributes fat cells, and improves circulation and lymphatic drainage as well, all key to reducing the appearance of cellulite. While a good massage may temporarily improve the appearance of cellulite, it's not a permanent fix.
4th degree –visible while standing and lying down and in some cases may cause pain or other health problems in the form of ligament degeneration.
In this regard, it does have an impact on cellulite. Your body produces cortisol under stress, this is why it is commonly known as the stress hormone. Cortisol isn't bad in balance, but in excess, it can be detrimental to cellulite and even your health.
While the evidence on this subject is limited, one study on 105 women aged 24-50 demonstrated that regular use of 2.5 grams of bioactive collagen peptides, over a period of 6 months, led to a clear improvement of the skin appearance in women suffering from moderate cellulite.