There are some things that most Americans aspire to achieve in life. Among them are endless riches, everlasting romance, and the elixir of eternal youth. Unfortunately, achieving these feats is not an easy task (which is probably why the vast majority of us aren’t retired at age thirty with a supermodel spouse at our sides). Competitive job markets, complicated dating games, and the onset of cellulite that inevitably comes with age are all unavoidable realities that prevent most of us from finding fame, fortune, and forever youth.
While we can’t help you amass endless riches or find everlasting romance, we do know a thing or two about eliminating the appearance of cellulite. We thought we’d share our knowledge of some of the latest science regarding the study of cellulite and offer a few suggestions as to how you can keep this unwanted invader from affecting your body prematurely. We can’t offer an elixir to eternal youth, but we’ve got the next best thing.
What is Cellulite?
You may be familiar with cellulite as that lumpy, dimpled flesh that appears most commonly on the thighs, hips, buttocks, and belly. What is it, really, and where does it come from?
Cellulite sounds complex, but in reality it is simply normal fat deposits beneath the skin that causes a puckered effect as it pushes up against underlying connective tissues. It’s harmless, but does create a visual appearance that is unappealing to most people who then seek out ways to eliminate it.
What Causes Cellulite?
Contrary to popular belief, the appearance and onset of cellulite isn’t directly correlated with weight. While it is true that losing weight and successful weight management can decrease the appearance of cellulite, individuals of every shape and size are prone to this common medical condition. In fact, it affects nearly 90% of all people, the majority of which are women. Science has proven that genetics and family history are the biggest factors that influence an individual’s likelihood of developing cellulite, but other factors also play a role.
Poor diet, a slow metabolism, fad or yo-yo dieting, a sedentary lifestyle, dehydration, hormone imbalances, skin composition, overall body fat composition, and personal genetics all affect how much a person is prone to developing the ominous “cottage cheese” thigh (or stomach or backside).
Research has also proven that conditions of cellulite seem to get worse with age. This is true especially for women due to the fact that hormone production decreases the older most women get. This, in turn, means less estrogen which affects circulation and decreases levels of collagen. Smoking is another factor that encourages cellulite development as it, too, weakens the flow of blood vessels and decreases collagen production.
Modern science has dispelled quite a few myths when it comes to cellulite as well. Most used to believe that the type of clothing a woman wore had an impact on the development of cellulite. However, recent studies have dismissed this belief.
Compression clothing may reduce that “jiggle” while you’re moving and create a smoother appearance, but it does nothing in terms of reducing or eliminating this common skin condition in the long run. Likewise, it’s a myth that toxins in the body contribute to cellulite, so those various over-the-counter products claiming that they eliminate cellulite by cleansing the body are bogus.
Is it Possible to Get Rid of Cellulite?
So, then, how can you free yourself from the ugly condemnation of cottage cheese thighs? Is it even possible? Fortunately, the answer is yes.
While it may not be possible to completely eliminate all cellulite, you can reduce its visibility. Science has proven the success of non-invasive laser treatments by temporarily reducing the visible effects of cellulite. From lipo laser treatments to body contouring, laser cellulite removal is arguably the best means for combatting this condition.
So there you have it. These simple truths based in science should dispel a few of the lies and myths about cellulite. If you are looking for how to lose belly fat and reduce the appearance of cellulite on your body, then hope is not lost. While lipo laser and non-invasive laser treatments aren’t an elixir for eternal youth, they will at least make you feel like you’ve shed more than a few years along with your cellulite.
