Healthy Habits for Bonsall & Fallbrook Folks: Cellulite: These dimples aren't from smiling

Megan Johnson McCullough

Special to the Village News

Cellulite is the subcutaneous (under the skin) fat that can be seen on the lower portion of the body. This dimply skin is typically seen around the buttocks, abdomen and thighs. It is a type of connective tissue that likes to manifest. The fat has pushed through the connective tissue and wants to be seen. Statistics vary, but most report somewhere near 90% of women having this appear on their skin. The time after the years of puberty brings on the cellulite, but there are number of causes regardless of age and body type.

Causes

These lumps are more embarrassing as opposed to being considered a medical condition. As fat accumulates, the connective tissue between muscles that have fat starts to push up against the skin. The tough cords try to fight this which leads to the dimples and uneven skin. Cellulite likes to make it presence known as we age because our skin starts to lose its elasticity.

Treatment

There are pros and cons to all approaches. Some are more cost efficient than others. It seems like those creams, massages, and different products on the market don't live up to their gimmicks. Retinol cream is a popular item. All of these might slightly improve the appearance, but they don't make it go away the way we desperately hope for. Being more active and losing weight can help. Genetics are genetics when it comes to these dimples, so even lean people can have cellulite.

Laser work seems to be the most effective treatment type at this time. Some laser procedures include radiofrequency, tissue massage and others use infrared light. Results are temporary. Liposuction is also an option in which the doctor will make an incision and use a tube to suck out the fat. This doesn't completely remove the cellulite but improves appearance. New lasers can be used in combination with liposuction which has the potential to destroy the fat cells and help tighten the skin. Cryolipolysis actually freezes the fat cells. This takes multiple, ongoing treatments. Ultrasound can also improve appearance.

There are also alternative approaches. Some believe that repetitive massaging will increase blood flow and help remove the cellulite toxins. Mesotherapy involves injecting different herbal remedies to the area. Topical creams are also common.

We would prefer a life without cellulite, but that is not always the way the cards are dealt. We can take steps to improve the appearance of the dimples. Those lumps are fighters so being consistent and persistent is important. There are many options on the market, some that work better than others. Luckily, clothes can cover the skin. Be confident and know that what is on the surface of the skin doesn't define the inner self you are truly known for by others.