Retinol, also called vitamin A, is an important nutrient found in whole milk products, liver and a variety of fortified foods. You need vitamin A for many bodily functions including formation and maintenance of your skin, bones, teeth and mucous membranes. Though some products containing retinol claim to reduce cellulite under the skin, there is little evidence to support such claims.
Retinol Basics
The term "retinol" refers to a specific form of vitamin A found in animal products. This form of retinol belongs to a class of substances called retinoids. Other plant-based substances called carotenoids also contain vitamin A. One well-known carotenoid, called beta carotene, turns into vitamin A inside your body after you consume it in dietary sources. Supplemental forms of vitamin A include synthetic retinol and a substance called retinyl palmitate.
Understanding Cellulite
Cellulite forms when groups of fat cells underneath your skin strain against a type of connective tissue called collagen, which connects your skin to your underlying muscles. Most women and adolescent girls develop these fat pockets in locations that commonly include the stomach, buttocks and thighs. In some cases, men also develop cellulite. Potential factors that influence the presence of cellulite on your body include genetic predisposition, your age, your level of body fat and the relative thickness of your skin. Depending on your personal circumstances, you may have a small amount of cellulite that produces minor skin changes or a larger amount that produces substantial changes in the contours of your skin.
Retinol Uses
Synthetic forms of retinol are frequently included in creams, serums and lotions used to combat the presence of superficial skin lines and wrinkles, according to the American Academy of Dermatology's SkinCarePhysicians.com. You may also receive topical retinoids to treat conditions such as psoriasis, acne, warts, premature skin aging and rosacea. Various other forms of vitamin A are used in the treatment of additional disorders that include the measles, inflammatory bowel disease, the eye disorder retinitis pigmentosa, malaria and a form of cancer called acute promyelocytic leukemia.
Ineffective Treatments
Creams marketed for the treatment of cellulite may contain a variety of vitamins, herbal extracts, antioxidants or minerals, MayoClinic.com reports. However, no scientific studies have ever confirmed the effectiveness of these products in reducing cellulite-related fat pockets or dimpled contours in your skin. A cellulite treatment called mesotherapy involves the injection of various vitamins, extracts, hormones or minerals under your skin. This approach also has no proven effectiveness and may trigger the onset of rashes, infections or a worsening of contour changes in your skin.
Considerations
The most effective treatment for cellulite is typically weight loss through appropriate exercise and dietary changes, MayoClinic.com notes. In particular, exercises that work your buttocks and thighs can help reduce the appearance of cellulite in these areas. Consult your doctor before reducing your calorie intake to confirm that weight loss is appropriate in your circumstances.
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