What is cellulite?
This is a word used to describe fat deposits that tend to form in the deep subcutaneous layers of our skin. It has a lumpy, dimply, appearance that looks somewhat like cottage cheese or orange peel. Cellulite first appears after we go through puberty and it is documented that between 80 and 90% of women will develop cellulite. It is found on our hips, thighs, buttocks and abdomen and is very rarely found on men.
We often associate cellulite with being overweight, but it can also occur in slim women. It appears that we can have a genetic predisposition to having cellulite.
Cellulite should not be confused with Cellulitis, which is a bacterial skin infection that is characterised by swelling, redness and a feeling of tenderness or heat around the affected area. This condition most often occurs when a cut in the skin is not properly cleaned and requires prompt medical attention so as to avoid serious infection.
One of the reasons women have cellulite and also why it usually happens post puberty is due to the presence of hormones. Hormones such as oestrogen and folliculine play a part in the formation of cellulite. Cellulite can also form when our bodies go through other hormonal changes such as pregnancy, while on birth control pills and also during menopause. A woman’s hormones are usually responsible for the regulation of blood flow, fat, connective tissue and for lymphatic drainage.
Cellulite rarely occurs in men because the subcutaneous fat layer in a man’s skin is organised into small, slanting units that store smaller amounts of fat that are not likely to form cellulite. In women this layer is organised in large upright chambers that allow fat to be stored.
What can we do to lessen the appearance of cellulite in our body?
There are a number of topical creams that contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, herbs, minerals and vitamins that can help stimulate blood flow and assist the skin to become smoother, softer and healthier. Regular dry skin brushing and massage can help stimulate both the circulation and the lymphatic system.
Exercise is also important to help control cellulite. Regular exercise will help tone saggy muscles and aid circulation and blood flow to cellulite-prone areas. Even if you can’t find time to work out at the gym on a regular basis, a brisk 30-minute walk everyday can bring tone to the muscles and lessen the appearance of cellulite.
We can also help by maintaining a good, healthy diet and ensure that we get plenty of fibre and drink eight glasses of water daily to help flush the toxins stored in our fat tissues. Taking vitamins and minerals will keep our body functioning properly. Foods to avoid are those high in fat and preservatives.
Some women prefer to have cosmetic surgery such as liposuction to reduce cellulite, but this has not proved to be successful. There is also another treatment called endermologie that is getting good results. It is a massage machine with two rollers and a gentle suction action used on cellulite-prone areas to increase lymphatic flow and helps promote better circulation throughout your entire body.
Spa Elder Tip
Although we cannot completely rid the body of cellulite there are ways of controlling it. Ensure that you exercise regularly and drink at least eight glasses of water daily.
Stella Gray is the Spa Elder at Fern Tree, the Spa at Half Moon, with over 35 years in the spa industry. She can be reached at ferntree@halfmoon.com.
