We all know what cellulite is, right? Well, most of us have an idea about what it is, but much of it is received wisdom. First of all, the part of the body we most associate cellulite with – the upper thighs – is just one of the places it can occur. It is just as common around the waist, on the buttocks and around the hips too. The only reason it’s thought of as a thigh problem is that we usually have the other parts covered up.

And we all know that it’s something that only affects overweight people. Well, that’s not true either. It can affect thin, large and average sized people. That said, it does have links to a lack of exercise. A sedentary lifestyle is more likely to manifest itself in the distinctive appearance of cellulite, but if it’s combined with a relatively healthy diet it can occur on the leanest of people. A good diet itself, plus plenty of hydration, can also have a positive effect on cellulite, but the effect of these alone without the exercise is relatively minor.

And finally, cellulite only affects females. Is this true? This is probably the closest bit of common knowledge to the truth. The way women’s fat storage cells are arranged is much looser than that of men, so they are much more sensitive to smaller fluctuations in the toning that holds them together and keeps the fat deposits in place. So it is not impossible for men to get cellulite, and with certain hormonal conditions it is actually quite likely.

The fat cells in these parts of the body are held together by fibres which start to squeeze the fat when they are not given the stimulation of activity. This squeezing actually forces the fatty parts outwards, creating the uneven “orange-peel” appearance on the skin that’s dreaded by beach lovers.

So if the signs of cellulite are beginning to show, the first step is to start doing a little exercise. The usual warnings apply, that is, if you’re really not used to exercise, start slowly and build up. Do away with your fast food and booze for a bit, go on a culinary health drive and drink plenty of water. You might not stop it in its tracks, but you’ll certainly help matters.

Once it is relatively established, however, you might need a little clinical intervention if you’re determined to get rid of cellulite. Fortunately it’s entirely possible, and many cosmetic clinics have the right tools for the job. The current favourite method is using radio frequency treatment. This state of the art machine can actually penetrate its waves to the exact depth below the outer skin to reach the parts of the dermis and fatty layer that cause the cellulite. The radio waves stimulate and heat up the layer, which causes the fat deposits to effectively melt a little, letting it flow more naturally and reduce the rippled effect of cellulite. The heating also makes the body produce its own collagen, a tightening agent, and improves blood flow, helping to remove the fat deposits.

If this all sounds to you like much more fun than running the treadmill, you’re probably right! But the appearance of cellulite might act as a mild warning to you to start looking after yourself a little, although it must be stressed that it’s not always preventable, even if you’re a fitness freak. At least now it can be reduced.

Author Bio: New developments in anti-ageing clinical treatments offer choices for many people now. Sue Barnard reviews these developments and writes information guides to help people understand the various skin treatments available.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
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