Cellulite creams are also called "thigh creams" and "slimming creams." They allegedly eliminate or reduce the appearance of a type of a specific type of fat known as cellulite, a term used to describe the dimpled pockets of fat the appear on the thighs and buttocks. The condition is more common among women, but some men may show signs of cellulite.
History
The word cellulite became a household word in 1972 when author Nicole Ronsard published a book titled "Cellulite: Those Lumps, Bumps and Bulges You Couldn't Loose Before." Ronsard, however, did not discover cellulite. Dr. Lionel Bissoon, author of "The Cellulite Cure" gives credit to French writers Alquier and Paviot, who researched the cellulite phenomenon in the 1920s.
Composition
The composition of cellulite cream varies according to the manufacturer. Many creams use aminophylline, which is a bronchodilator used for the treatment of asthma. Some creams also contain caffeine and the more expensive creams may contain Retinol A.
Theories/Speculation
Why would anyone use an asthma treatment for thigh and butt fat? Jennifer Hamilton outlines the justification in a Vanderbilt University paper titled "Thigh Creams: Fact or Fiction?" Hamilton says that since aminophylline can get your heart pumping, it is believed that it can also speed up you metabolic rate and burn fat. Caffeine, which increases heart rate, acts as a diuretic to reduce fluid accumulation. Retin A, another cellulite cream ingredient is an antioxidant derivative of vitamin A. It allegedly improves collagen and elastin production. This may thicken the skin, and in turn, hide the appearance of cellulite.
Misconceptions
Cellulite creams may hide the appearance of dimpled skin, but they are not effective for weight or fat loss. Weight and body composition can only be controlled with aerobic and weight training exercise, as well as dietary modifications.
Prevention/Solution
Dr. Len Kravitz, a professor at the University of New Mexico, and Dr. Wayne Westcott of the South Shore YMCA in Quincy, Massachusetts, have published extensive research about the role of exercise in preventing cellulite. Kravitz recommends a fitness program consisting of 20 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise daily, as well as a weight training program. Westcott has performed numerous studies that indicate that strength-training plays a crucial role in eliminating cellulite.
Warning
On February 24, 2000, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning that some people may have allergic reactions to ethylenediamine, which is a major ingredient in aminophylline. Check your skin for redness or itchiness.
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