Cellulite: The What, Why, How
Cellulite. It’s something most of us will see pop up on our lower bodies as time passes. Even women who aren’t overweight at all will look in the mirror one day and notice that lumpy, cottage cheese look on their thighs, rear or even abdomen.
Put most simply, cellulite is fat. It takes that dimpled form we find so unattractive due to the aging process. First, connective fibers under the skin’s surface tend to lose elasticity as the years pass. As they become less able to stretch and give, they stiffen and pull down on the skin at various points. While this is happening, fat cells may also be plumping up and pushing out. For the final blow, skin itself loses its strong, supple qualities and is less able to cover fat deposits smoothly and keep them in check.
If you’re getting the idea that you shouldn’t blame yourself too much if you have cellulite, you’re right. In fact, you may have more if you’re overweight, but chances are you have some cellulite even if you’re slim and trim. Not only that, differences in tissue structures cause women to develop cellulite much more than men do.
So do you feel better about your cellulite now you know what it is and why you have it? Maybe not. Maybe you’re wondering how to get rid of it.
Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer. In fact, there is a dizzying array of possible treatments. It can be very difficult for a layperson to figure out which ones might actually reduce cellulite versus those that mainly work to reduce the bank account.
First, know that nearly all doctors agree that creams don’t work. They may cause a temporary tingling sensation and possible swelling that fools you into thinking something is happening. Save your money.
Liposuction in its various forms is the tried and true way to get rid of fat, including cellulite. It’s also surgery, meaning it will likely cost you more than other treatments in terms of money and downtime. And while the fat cells sucked out from under the skin are gone forever, you may still have some cellulite left that liposuction can’t reach.
Another option is Lipolysis (the most popular iteration today is called Smart Lipo).
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment2 Comments
I am in my 50's, I have about 19% body fat and I run marathons. And I have significant cellulite on my thighs. I agree that maintaining a healthy body weight and exercising is always a good idea, but it doesn't appear to be a solution to lumpy thighs.
February 18, 2010 - 11:39amThis Comment
That word makes me cringe. And although it is very kind of you to say that it probably isn't my fault--in my case, I KNOW it is. I used to drink a very limited amount of caffeinated beverages and tons of water-- not a sign of cellulite. Now, I have jumped on the coke wagon and I have noticed cellulite on my thighs that I know for a fact was not there before. It is SO upsetting because if I had had it all my life, atleast I could blame my genes, now I just have my diet to blame :(
My post baby resolution this July is to go back to the gym and resume the lifestyle I once had. And maybe, just maybe-- I'll get some of my old self back.
February 19, 2010 - 9:09am