The Truth About Cellulite

Cellulite is the lumpy, bumpy appearance that many women get on their thighs, abdomen, and buttocks. It has been one of the biggest concerns that has generated a ton of so-called remedies. What causes cellulite and what can be done to get rid of it? Let me try to clarify these questions for you.

Cellulite is caused by the structure of the subcutaneous fat (below the skin). The connective tissue that separates areas of fat, or “chambers”, are rigid and as fat increases it pushes upward it creates a lumpy appearance. It’s sort of like how the ties in a futon mattress creates dimples as they pull downward helping the mattress hold it’s structure. Contributing factors to an individual having cellulite may include: hormonal factors, genetics, diet, lifestyle factors (i.e. smoking), tight restrictive clothing, and weight gain.

So, naturally, with a problem that effects so many, the search for a “cure” for cellulite has created a massive market of potions, rubs, and treatments. Millions of dollars are spent each year on these products/treatments with very disappointing results as a whole. Most show no real change in appearance while others show minimal changes that only last as long as the product use is continued.

Can nothing be done? While there is no definitive answer, the most effective means of decreasing or getting rid of cellulite is to gradually lose total body fat (there is no spot reduction) and to increase muscle in the affected areas (which creates a firmer, more appealing shape).

Want more information? Here are some great resources:

Cellulite: Everything You Want to Know and More By Len Kravitz, Ph.D.
 Is Cellulite Forever? by Katherine Harmon for Scientific American
“Cellulite” Removers by Stephen Barrett, M.D. for quackwatch.com