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Most people know that the word “cellulite” refers to the dimpled appearance of skin, but details about what cellulite really is, its causes and solutions are not common knowledge. Cellulite typically becomes visible on skin on the pelvic area, lower limbs, abdomen and under the upper arms. It is sometimes referred to by such names as cottage cheese skin and orange peel syndrome. In the medical field, the condition is officially known as adiposis edematosa. Cellulite can be classified according to grades: * Grade 1 – microscopic examination of cells identifies underlying anatomical changes. * Grade 2 - skin appears pasty with a lowered temperature. * Grade 3 – in addition to signs noted in “Grade 2,” there will be visible roughness of skin. It is important to note that cellulite is not recognized as a disease. In fact, medically speaking, many say cellulite is nothing to be concerned about. But most people will agree that at least in some situations, the way we look has a direct impact on our emotional and psychological health. When we are less than pleased with our appearance our self-esteem can suffer. With that understanding, it is easy to associate cellulite treatments with psychological benefits. In other words, effective treatments result in an improved appearance and thus, a boost to the self-esteem. The Underlying Subcutaneous Fat Facts Subcutaneous fat is the fatty layer of tissue that is directly under the skin. In addition to containing fat, this connective tissue layer also contains blood vessels. The fatty layer or subcutaneous layer is an important shock absorber that helps to cushion nerves and blood vessels, as well as the skin and skeleton. This helps in the prevention of trauma to the body. This type of fat also stores energy that the body reserves for times of high activity. Obviously, everyone has a layer of subcutaneous fat and this fat plays an important role in our health, as well as in our appearance. If the subcutaneous fat is present in an average or small amounts, it remains less visible under the skin layers. But if there is a larger amount the fat can be more visible. Since subcutaneous fat is located just under the skin, if there is too much fat the skin will become taut and stretched. This usually results in a dimpled appearance that is referred to as cellulite. Cellulite Basics Put simply: fat is not necessarily the only cause of visible cellulite and fat in the right amount is a good thing. It is the structure of both the skin and the connective tissue beneath it that determines if an area will have a smooth appearance or one that is dimpled, like cottage cheese. The connective tissue has fibrous bands that connect the skin to the muscle under the tissue. The bands form chambers that “contain” the fat. In the case of visible cellulite, the bands pull the skin downward as the fat is pushed upward. Because the connective tissue becomes less supple with aging the appearance of cellulite bulges and dimples can become worse with years. Cellulite Risk Factors Although everyone is at risk for developing visible cellulite, there are certain factors that make some individuals more vulnerable than others. The number one risk factor is gender. Women have more dimples in their skin than men. The reason women have increased problems with cellulite is the fat distribution in their bodies. For instance, women have more subcutaneous fat around the pelvic region of their bodies. Additionally, the fibrous bands in the connective tissue are distributed differently in women than in men. Besides gender genetics are the biggest consideration when it comes to developing visible cellulite. In general, factors like the way subcutaneous fat is distributed and metabolism are genetic components. That being said, it’s not surprising that cellulite often runs in families. Aging is another primary player in the development of cellulite. The aging process results in a thinning of the skin and a loss of the skin’s firmness and elasticity. With that cellulite becomes more visible and the appearance of “skin dimpling” is enhanced. Other risk factors are related to lifestyles and body weight. While it is true that even thin people can develop visible cellulite, being overweight can definitely increase the risk. Maintaining a healthy weight and getting proper rest and exercise is one of the best defenses against developing visible cellulite. Poor eating habits, smoking and stress can contribute to the development of visible cellulite. True Cellulite Solutions While countless products and treatments are offered as cellulite remedies, few are true solutions. In order for Cellulite Treatments to be truly effective circulation must be improved, lymphatic drainage increased and fat cells broken down. Fortunately, the latest in cellulite therapy does all these things. Jessica Potter is an expert in beauty and skin care treatments. She reports that although cellulite is not considered a ‘medical condition’ it indeed can have unpleasant consequences. Potter recommends cellulite therapy. She contends that quality treatments can improve one’s appearance resulting in increased self-esteem.
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