Many factors contribute to the development of cellulite. The most significant is the accumulation of fat within pockets under the surface of the skin. With this fat, collagen fibers that connect fat to skin stretch and weaken, which allows some of these deposits to press up along certain areas of the body and create the dimpled skin often associated with cellulite, says the National Institutes of Health. By tightening weakened fibers and encouraging the production of collagen, you may see an improvement in cellulite. One way to do this is by heating the dermal and subdermal layers of the skin through radiofrequency.
Radiofrequency
Although no medical need exists to treat cellulite, a form of radiofrequency can sometimes help improve the appearance of the skin. During treatment, radio waves are administered to areas affected by cellulite, which heats the underlying dermal and subdermal tissue. This heat changes the structure of the treated tissue without damaging the surface layer of the skin.
Effects
The primary effect of the heat caused by radiofrequency is that collagen structures under the surface of the skin begin to tighten. You may also experience an increased production of collagen, strengthening weakened connective fibers. The combination of these effects can help smooth the dimpling of the skin, reducing the appearance of cellulite.
Evidence
A study published in Dermatologic Surgery showed an improvement in cellulite with unipolar radiofrequency therapy after a total of six treatments. Participants experienced a decrease in leg circumference of an average of 2.45cm through the process of dermal fibrosis, best described as the development of excess fibrous connective tissue. Treatment was isolated to the upper thigh and only administered to a small number of patients. Further studies are necessary to determine whether the same effects will occur along other areas of the body.
Vigorous Massage
Radiofrequency therapy is often combined with vigorous massage. Sometimes referred to as deep-tissue massage, this modality is thought to increase the skin's elasticity and improve the efficacy of dermal and subdermal collagen production. It's also said to aid in blood circulation, which may encourage drainage of excess fluids contributing to the appearance of cellulite.
Efficacy
According to the Mayo Clinic, improvements are only temporary. Heating the dermis and subdermis isn't a cure for cellulite. You'll likely maintain results for more than six months. After this span of time, additional treatments are necessary to reduce dimpling or rippling of the skin.
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