Cellulite is a condition that causes the affected areas of your skin to become dimpled. According to docshop.com, it is estimated that over 90 percent of women have some form of cellulite. Still, many women are self-conscious about it and some go through great lengths to get rid of their cellulite. Tanning has come forth as a cellulite treatment option that is more affordable than anti-cellulite creams and cosmetic surgery. However, this option may also be dangerous and not as effective as other methods.
Cause
Cellulite occurs when fat cells become trapped underneath your skin, thereby breaking the skin's elasticity. Although cellulite can occur on women who are overweight, it can even strike skinny women. This is due to the fact that the fat contained in cellulite differs from other fat cells. According to healthcentral.com, cellulite fat cells are formed by a combination of estrogen and skin texture. Cellulite is also hereditary, so if your mother has it, you will likely get it as well. Your risk can be heightened by a lack of physical activity and an unhealthy diet, according to docshop.com.
Function
Tanning is thought to treat cellulite by reducing its appearance. This may be a popular form of cellulite treatment among tanners, as it is relatively easy, and its expense depends upon whether you venture outside for free or you pay for tanning booth sessions. Healthcentral.com explains that cellulite is not as apparent on darker skin, and it stands out the most on light-colored skin.
Misconceptions
Tanning itself, however, does not actually get rid of cellulite, but can help disguise it. In fact, according to healthcentral.com, there is no cure for cellulite. Though there are treatments marketed as a way to help get rid of cellulite, they only reduce the appearance, just as tanning does.
Warning
You may damage your skin by using tanning as way to treat your cellulite. First, tanning puts you at risk for skin cancer, even if you wear sunscreen. Unprotected skin is most vulnerable to melanoma. Also, according to healthcentral.com, regular tanning sessions can cause further damage to your skin's elasticity, eventually making cellulite stand out even more.
Prevention/Solution
If you plan on tanning to help mask your cellulite, do so wisely. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply often. Since sunscreen may reduce the tanning process, your best bet is to use a self-tanner. This way, you still get the camouflaging benefits of darker skin without the harmful UV rays.
Member Comments