Why we have it and how to treat this condition
Anatomy of cellulite
As fat cells increase, they push up against the skin. Tough, long connective cords pull down. This creates an uneven surface or dimpling, often referred to as cellulite.
Cellulite is a very common, harmless skin condition that causes lumpy, dimpled flesh on the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen. The condition is most prevalent in women.
Many people try, with variable success, to improve the appearance of their skin through weight loss, exercise, massage and creams marketed as a solution to cellulite. Medically proven treatment options are available as well, though results aren’t immediate or long lasting.
How to Recognize Cellulite (Symptoms)
Cellulite looks like dimpled or bumpy skin. It’s sometimes described as having a cottage cheese or orange peel texture.
You can see mild cellulite only if you pinch your skin in an area where you have cellulite, such as your thighs. Cellulite that is more severe makes the skin appear rumpled and bumpy with areas of peaks and valleys.
Cellulite is most common around the thighs and buttocks, but it can also be found on the breasts, lower abdomen and upper arms.
What Really Causes Cellulite? (Causes)
Little is known about what causes cellulite. It involves fibrous connective cords that tether the skin to the underlying muscle, with the fat lying between. As fat cells accumulate, they push up against the skin, while the long, tough cords pull down. This creates an uneven surface or dimpling.
In addition, hormonal factors play a large role in the development of cellulite, and genetics determine skin structure, skin texture and body type. Other factors, such as weight and muscle tone affect whether you have cellulite, though even very fit people can have it.
Types of Cellulite – Scientific Classification
Cellulite is classified based on appearance, structural changes in subcutaneous tissue, and clinical severity. The most commonly recognized types include:
1. Soft Cellulite (Cellulite flaccide / Soft Cellulite)
- Description: Soft to the touch, often moves with body motion, and appears over larger areas of the body.
- Characteristics: Common in individuals with reduced muscle tone or those who have experienced rapid weight loss.
- Scientific basis: Linked to decreased firmness of connective tissue and poor muscular support, often accompanied by fluid retention in the interstitial space.
2. Hard Cellulite (Cellulite compact / Hard Cellulite)
- Description: Firm to the touch, often associated with taut, elastic skin.
- Characteristics: Typically found in younger individuals, athletes, or those with well-toned muscles.
- Scientific basis: Fat cells are tightly packed and compressed between fibrous bands that pull the skin inward. It is often less visible but present in deeper layers.
3. Edematous Cellulite (Edematous Cellulite)
- Description: A rare but more severe form of cellulite associated with lymphatic and venous insufficiency.
- Characteristics: The skin appears swollen and sponge-like, often accompanied by a sensation of heaviness and discomfort.
- Scientific basis: Impaired microcirculation and lymphatic flow lead to fluid and toxin accumulation.
4. Fibrotic Cellulite (Fibrotic Cellulite)
- Description: The most resistant form of cellulite, characterized by pronounced dimples and thickened fibrous bands.
- Characteristics: The skin has a “orange peel” texture and may be painful to the touch.
- Scientific basis: Collagen fibers (septa) become thickened and less elastic, creating visible surface irregularities. This type is more difficult to treat.
In clinical practice, a combination of different cellulite types is often observed in the same individual, depending on the body area, age, hormonal balance, and lifestyle factors.
Who Can Get Cellulite? (Risk factors)
Cellulite is much more common in women than in men. In fact, most women develop some cellulite after puberty. This is because women’s fat is typically distributed in the thighs, hips and buttocks — common areas for cellulite.
Cellulite is also more common with aging, when the skin loses elasticity. Weight gain can make cellulite more noticeable, but some lean people have cellulite, as well. It tends to run in families, so genetics might play the biggest role in whether you develop cellulite. An inactive lifestyle also can increase your chances of having cellulite, as can pregnancy.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of cellulite involves looking at the skin to assess the dimpling and what may have caused it. This helps determine which treatment may improve the look of your skin. Some methods treat fat but don’t remove the dimpling. And methods that remove cellulite aren’t intended to remove excess fat.
Cellulite Treatment
A variety of treatment approaches are available to improve the appearance of cellulite, at least temporarily. Each has its own set of potential results and side effects. Some studies indicate that a combination of treatments may yield the most satisfying results.
- Laser and radiofrequency treatments
- Acoustic wave therapy (Ultrasound)
- Massage
- Surgery
In our West 65 Wellness & Spa center, you can address this issue with massage techniques that include improved microcirculation, stimulation of lymphatic drainage, and body contouring.
Massage in the treatment of Cellulite
Massage can have a positive effect on cellulite, especially as part of a broader, combined approach. Its effects are not permanent when used alone, but it can contribute to significant visual improvements and better overall tissue condition.
Mechanisms of Massage Action on Cellulite:
- Improvement of Microcirculation
Massage stimulates blood vessels and capillaries in the treated area, increasing the supply of oxygen and nutrients. This may help break down fat cells and reduce fluid retention. - Stimulation of Lymphatic Drainage
It helps eliminate excess interstitial fluid and toxins, contributing to a reduction in swelling and the “orange peel” appearance. - Mechanical Effect on Connective Tissue
Massage can soften thickened connective fibers (septa) and improve tissue elasticity, making the skin appear smoother. - Increase in Skin and Tissue Temperature
The heat generated by friction may assist in fat breakdown, although this effect is mild compared to more intensive treatments. - Stimulation of Fibroblasts and Collagen Synthesis
Regular mechanical stimulation can promote new collagen production, which strengthens the skin’s and connective tissue’s structure.
Note:
- Massage does not permanently remove cellulite, but it can improve the appearance of the skin and overall tissue health.
- The best results are achieved in combination with physical activity, a balanced diet, and targeted treatments.
Results: You may notice a slight improvement in skin appearance after a series of treatments, but it’s important to understand that the effects are temporary and require consistency and maintenance.
Author: Jelena Janković, Spa manager at West 65 Wellness & Spa
Source: Mayo Clinic, Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, International Journal of Cosmetic Science, European Journal of Dermatology
