Cellulite is a skin condition affecting over 90% of most post-pubescent women. Even those with a slim figure often complain about cellulite external visible symptoms, its lumpy, dimpled appearance. Cellulite commonly appears on the hips, buttocks and legs, but is not caused by being overweight, as many believe. Cellulite appears in the subcutaneous level of skin tissue. Fat cells are arranged in chambers surrounded by bands of connective tissue called septae.

As water is retained, fat cells held within the perimeters of this area expand and stretch the connective tissue. Eventually this connective tissue contracts and hardens (sclerosis) holding the skin at a non-flexible length, while the surrounding tissue continues to expand with weight, or water gain.

This results in areas of the skin being held down while other sections bulge outward, resulting in the lumpy appearance.

What Causes Cellulite?

Tension, fatigue, smoking, lack of exercise, alcohol, and drugs have been held responsible for the poisoning of connective tissue and formation of cellulite; these factors are thought to slow down the rate of elimination of waste materials from the body and these then collect in the connective tissues. It stands to logic that if you eat more than you require, you would put on weight. The body can easily store this excess fat in the skin. When too much fat is stored, it tends to bulge out between the fibers of connective tissue.

The overlying skin then begins to look and feel uneven and flabby. Doctors also agree that too many calories and too little exercise both contribute to this excessive collection of fat. Chemical analysis has shown that cellulite is similar to ordinary fat. There is also no indication of the presence of any abnormal connective tissue or excess amount of water in the skin of people having excess amounts of the so-called cellulite.

What Causes Cellulite?

There is wide range of products available in the market that claim to cure cellulite, many of which are ineffective. Creams made from herbs, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants are available which softens the skin making it healthier and smoother. This helps the dermis to repair itself. Creams containing anti-inflammatory and antioxidants prove effective to treat cellulite as they motivate the blood flow. Cellulite needs moisture, protection and blood flow as they are damaged and dry. It is important to understand that cellulite needs to be treated internally and externally.

Many women tend to reduce the cellulite from the body, while some prefer liposuction method. However, liposuction is not recommendable as it used to remove fat from the body. Methods like endermologie and mesotherapy are quite popular and prove to be effective. Deep massage and diet control will also help in reduction of cellulite.