Cellulite is fat that takes on the appearance of dimpled skin that usually occurs on the thighs, buttocks and hips, but can occur anywhere on the body. Most women develop cellulite at some point. While the skin disorder does not have any medical complications, it is unsightly and can cause a woman to become self-conscious. A wide range of treatments is available to remove cellulite and some are more effective than others.
Causes
While men also can develop pockets of cellulite, eight out of 10 women have the dimpled skin somewhere on their bodies, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Women tend to carry fat in their hips and upper thigh areas, which are the most common areas for the condition to appear. As the skin ages, it loses elasticity, which can lead to the dimpled skin. Weight gain makes the dimples more apparent as well. Cellulite usually runs in families and can be exacerbated by stress, birth control pills and inactivity.
Types
Various types of cellulite removal are available through cosmetic surgeons, alternative medicine practitioners and through over-the-counter products. Common treatments include liposuction, massage, body wraps, supplements and creams. According to Medline Plus, most doctors don't view cellulite as a disorder and do not provide medical treatments.
Effects
The effects of most cellulite treatments are minimal at best, according to MayoClinic.com. While weight loss can reduce the appearance of the dimples, it cannot remove the bumpy skin. Vigorous massage also may break up the fat temporarily, but the cellulite will return. Injections aimed at cellulite removal carry side effects that may cause serious medical complications and no creams have been shown to be effective for cellulite removal.
Successful Treatment
According to MayoClinic.com, the most effective means of removing cellulite is through a cosmetic surgery procedure that utilizes lasers and radio frequency systems. The treatments usually are delivered a couple times a week over several weeks and often result in smooth skin that can last for up to six months. One effective treatment uses infrared light and radio frequency treatments in conjunction with massage and the other incorporates massage with diode lasers.
Warnings
In addition to wasting money on ineffective treatments, there are side effects from some cellulite removal systems. Liposuction often worsens the condition and carries risks such as infection or skin discoloration. According to MayoClinic.com., a commercial injection therapy called mesotherapy can lead to rashes, infections and hard, lumpy skin that's worse than the cellulite. Additionally, many cellulite creams on the market leave you with not only an empty pocketbook, but also a rash that may be very uncomfortable.
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