Dimpled, bumpy thighs or an abdomen with discolored streaks can spoil the look of even the most elegant swimsuit. Women are more prone to cellulite and stretch marks than men. Despite eating healthy diets and exercising regularly, many women will experience both cellulite and stretch marks.
Appearance
Cellulite appears as dimpled or puckered skin and usually occurs on the thighs, hips and buttocks, says Cellulite Solutions. Stretch marks change in appearance with time. The marks initially appear as red or pink streaks and may be slightly raised. With time, the marks fade to a lighter shade of pink or white and recede into the skin. Stretch marks occur most often on the abdomen, breasts and thighs.
Causes
Accumulated fat beneath the skin causes cellulite, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fibrous cords secure the skin to the underlying muscle. As fat builds up and pushes up against the skin surface, the cords pull the skin down toward the muscle layer, creating a dimpled surface. Stretch marks are simply caused by the skin stretching too far for too long a period. The elasticity of the skin is further weakened by production of the hormone cortisone.
Risk Factors
Weight gain is the most common risk factor for cellulite and stretch marks, says the Mayo Clinic, although both can also occur in people who are not overweight. Aging reduces skin elasticity, making cellulite more noticeable. Lack of exercise and a family predisposition increase a person's chance of developing cellulite. Stretch marks occur during periods of rapid weight gain, particularly pregnancy. Women who are overweight or obese, who give birth to large babies or who use corticosteroids have a greater tendency for developing stretch marks.
Treatment
Cellulite and stretch marks pose no medical complications and require treatment only for cosmetic reasons. Weight loss combined with leg exercises may reduce the appearance of cellulite, advises the Mayo Clinic. Weight loss without exercise and liposuction have little effect. Laser or radiofrequency treatments reduce cellulite but must be repeated every six months. Massage and creams show no benefit. Stretch marks cannot be removed but they will fade with time and certain types of treatments. New marks less than six months old may respond to tretinoin cream or pulsed laser therapy, both of which help rebuild collagen. Older marks may respond to microdermabrasion, a process that sloughs off the top layer of skin to be replaces by new, more elastic skin. Creams or seaweed wraps have no proven effect.
Prevention
Neither stretch marks nor cellulite can be prevented, says the Mayo Clinic. Maintaining a healthy weight, following a healthy diet and regular exercise are the only preventives.
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