Cellulite can be unsightly and cause low self-confidence about your body's image. You may avoid wearing shorts, swimsuits and skirts to keep your embarrassing areas from being exposed to onlookers. Cellulite is a common problem, and there are ways to improve the appearance of your skin.
Identification
Cellulite is most commonly found on the thighs, abdomen and buttocks; however, it appears on other areas of the body as well. Cellulite causes the skin to look dimpled and lumpy. In mild cases, though, it may be unnoticeable unless you pinch your skin. More women than men have cellulite. Eight out of 10 women have some degree of cellulite, reports MayoClinic.com.
Cause
Cellulite is caused by fat cells pushing against the skin while fibrous connective cords are pulled down toward underlying muscles, producing the lumpy appearance, according to MayoClinic.com. Excessive amounts of body fat and thickened skin can worsen the appearance of cellulite. Genes also play a role.
Surgery
Liposuction is the first option many people think of when it comes to improving the appearance of cellulite. Although liposuction does remove fat in an attempt to reshape the body, it cannot remove cellulite, according to the American Skincare and Cellulite Expert Association. If large quantities of fat are removed, this can make cellulite stand out more. Endermologie can be used in combination with liposuction to improve the appearance of cellulite. Endermologie is a non-surgical motorized device that smooths the skin's appearance, reports the American Skincare and Cellulite Expert Association.
Other Remedies
Losing weight by consuming fewer calories and performing a combination of strength-building and cardiovascular exercises is the most effective method to reduce the appearance of cellulite. A healthy diet and exercise program will not remove cellulite, but it will help smooth skin that resembles cottage cheese, according to MayoClinic.com. Laser therapy is also effective at reducing the appearance of cellulite; however, laser therapy can take several sessions and can be expensive.
Considerations
Factors that can contribute to the appearance of cellulite are an inactive lifestyle, stress and hormonal contraceptives, reports MayoClinic.com. All three of these factors can cause weight gain, which makes cellulite more noticeable. If cellulite is lowering your self-esteem, contact a doctor to see which removal or improvement method is best for you.
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