The word cellulite is one that most women are all too familiar with. The term refers to the dimpling of skin which is often described as cottage cheese skin or even as orange peel. Cellulite can appear on various areas of the body but it is usually more prevalent on the thighs, buttocks, under the upper arms and on the abdomen. Obviously this is not an attractive look and most women want to eliminate, or at the very least, minimize issues related to cellulite. In the medical world, cellulite is known as adiposis edematosa. However, cellulite is not recognized as a true medical problem or disease. In fact, cellulite is considered normal. The reason is that everyone has cellulite, but not everyone has visible cellulite. Skin, Fat and Cellulite Beyond knowing what cellulite looks like on the surface of the skin, a clear understanding of how cellulite forms is helpful when considering proper cellulite reduction treatments. The skin is the protective organ of the body. It is a waterproof shield that helps keep out infection, control body temperature and protect the delicate tissues under it. Skin is referred to as the dermis. Directly under the dermis is subcutaneous fat; this is where cellulite is found. More specifically, fat and cellulite is found within chambers in the fibrous connective tissues just under the skin. The walls of the chambers or compartments in the connective tissues are connected to the dermis above and to muscles under the tissue. The compartments or chambers in the connective tissue are filled with fat. When there is too much fat for the chambers to hold a bulging effect on the skin’s surface will become noticeable. The problem is that the fat pushes against the skin’s surface and the connective tissues pull downward. The aging process results in a natural thinning of skin. As the skin thins and loses elasticity even small amounts of cellulite may become visible. Losing weight or being thin does not guarantee that cellulite will be completely prevented. Grading Cellulite Cellulite is rated or classified according to three grade levels. Grade 1 is used to describe cellulite that is identifiable under microscopic examination; Grade 2 cellulite is that which causes a lowered temperature of skin and gives the skin a pasty appearance. Grade 3 is the type of cellulite that in addition to the characteristics of Grade 2, also includes noticeable roughness or dimpling of the skin. Cellulite Is Not A Disease, But… Even though according to the medical world cellulite is not a disease or true health problem, cellulite can lead to actual health concerns. Because people care greatly about the way they look, appearances can have an impact on emotional and mental health. Feeling unattractive can result in decreased self-esteem and lowered self-confidence. With that in mind, appropriate cellulite reduction treatments can provide multiple benefits. Causes of Cellulite Anyone can develop visible cellulite. However, some people are more at risk than others. Excess weight is a definite risk factor but there can be many other contributing issues. This includes diminished circulation to an area and decreased function of the lymphatic system, which is designed to rid the body of toxins. When the liver is not able to break down dietary toxins they are stored in cells located under the skin. This can result in fluid and fats being retained in the cells. This can cause the cells to swell, which can lead to reduced blood circulation and the prevention of proper drainage of lymph. The outcome is an accumulation of fat or stretched connective tissue and “orange peel” skin appears. Eating a healthy diet and drinking lots of water can be helpful in flushing toxins from the body. Therefore, it can help minimize problems with cellulite. Females are more at risk for developing cellulite than men are. This has to do with the way fat is distributed in the female body. The distribution of fat in women is very different from the way it is distributed in men. In addition, genetics can be a risk factor. Aging is also a major concern in the development of cellulite. As the skin ages it becomes thinner, with a noticeable decrease in firmness and elasticity. This results in cellulite becoming more visible. Cellulite Reduction Treatments Fortunately there are quality cellulite reduction treatments that can effectively treat cellulite problems from the inside out. These treatments work to improve circulation and lymphatic drainage. At the same time the treatments will work to break down fat cells. The best way to find the right cellulite treatment is visiting a professional skin clinic. Jessica Potter, a leading expert in skin care treatments, recently shared an article about cellulite. When considering cellulite reduction treatments Potter recommends consulting with skin care experts. She says cellulite clinic professionals can offer comprehensive treatments that work.
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