Cellulite, also known as cottage cheese skin, adiposis edematosa, and as orange peel syndrome, is the annoying dimpling of the skin on thighs, stomach, buttocks, and even breast tissue that occurs just below the skin's surface.
It is caused by the fibrous connective cords that connect the skin to the underlying muscle.
Fat cells are trapped in between these connective cords pushing up on the skin while the cords are tethered to deeper structures.
Although the causes of cellulite are still little understood, the best theories for it are hormones, genetics, lifestyle, diet and clothing.
Cellulite is not limited to the overweight individual nor to only women.
Men can also suffer from cellulite.
Many people suffer from cellulite even at a very young age.
Cellulite is very difficult to live with as it is not easy to rid oneself of the unsightly dimpling.
It makes it difficult for the individual to feel comfortable wearing swimwear and shorts.
People suffering from cellulite will try just about anything to reduce or rid themselves of the cottage cheese appearance so that they can feel more comfortable in public.
While medical journals will tell you that the best prevention for cellulite is diet, (i.
e.
, eating lots of fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables) and performing regular exercise, it still can occur in even the thinnest or healthiest of individuals lending more credence to the genetics theory.
So what are the best ways to prevent and/or treat cellulite? Surgical Intervention: While Liposuction methods are used to sculpt fat layers and cellulite, they have not been proven to be the most effective, and can sometimes worsen the appearance of cellulite.
Surgeries can be costly and can have an element of risk.
Always be sure to review the Medical Provider's credentials, education and training when seeking a treatment provider.
Maintaining a healthy, lean diet can help to prevent cellulite or reduce the appearance of accumulated cellulite by shrinking fat cells.
Exercise: Regular, consistent exercise can help to reduce fat and strengthen muscle which helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Reducing stress in one's life can also help to prevent cellulite.
Therapeutic Methods: These include heat therapy, magnetic therapy, ultrasound and electrical stimulation.
Drug and vitamin treatments consisting of methylxanthines (caffeine and theobromine), ginkgo biloba, rutin, pentoxifylline, beta-agonists and adrenaline, alpha-antagonists, amino acids, and Indian chestnut.
Topical treatments consisting of creams and vigorous massage.
Probably the most common treatment is with topical creams and therapeutic methods.
There are recent studies which have shown that with consistent use, topical creams can provide a noticeable difference for the user having smoother skin in as little as 30 days.
So how does one live with cellulite? Choose the best treatment method for you from the list above.
You may need to consult with your medical provider first before starting a particular modality of treatment.
Wear clothing that is complementary to your particular condition.
If you suffer from cellulite in the thigh or buttocks area, wear longer shorts or a breezy cover up over a swimsuit to help minimize the appearance of cellulite in those areas.
If you carry your cellulite in your arms, wear longer sleeves; or maybe looser fitting shirts would work best for you.
Remember, one out of eight women suffer from cellulite, so if you are a woman suffering from cellulite, you are not alone!