Cellulite is the accumulation of dimpled fat under the skin that makes your legs look less than perfect. You can have it in multiple stages with various appearances. There are several causes. You can try to reduce the appearance with several options, but the best option is prevention.
What is Cellulite?
Medical News Today describes cellulite as the dimpled appearance of skin caused by fat deposits just below the surface of the skin. This fat pushes against your connective tissue, causing the dimpling appearance. It most commonly occurs in the abdomen, legs, and hip region. Cellulite appears usually after puberty and around ages 25 to 35. It worsens over time.
Causes
The causes of cellulite are either under your control or out of your control. Cellulite is more prominent in people with large amounts of fat. A diet of too much fat, carbohydrates and salt, combined with too little fiber, can contribute. Medical News reports that lifestyle factors such as smoking, lack of exercise and sitting or standing for long periods can also make it worse. Genetics and being a female can also make cellulite more pronounced but are not preventable causes.
Stages
Cellulite is classified in three stages. According to Mesotherapies & Estetik, the three stages range from not visible to highly visible. Stage 1 has no visible cellulite when you stand or lie down. However, pinching of the skin can reveal an orange-like texture. Stage 2 is visible when you stand up but not when you lie down. Stage 3 is visible when you stand up and lie down.
How to Remove Cellulite
Teens Health says there are no miracle products, treatments or medicines to completely make cellulite disappear. You can try several methods to remove or decrease the appearance of your cellulite -- including massage, heat therapy, ultrasound and radio, magnetic or radial wave therapy. You may ingest or rub drugs on cellulite. These drugs include methylxathines, pentoxifylline, beta-agonists, amino acids and ginko biloba. There is no supportive research to prove any of these methods work. Medical News Today reports that liposuction does not actually remove cellulite.
Prevention
The prevention of cellulite with factors you can control is the best practice. A healthy diet consisting of fruits, vegetables and fiber helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Exercising regularly helps keep fat levels in check. Reducing your stress level can also help keep your legs smoother.
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