If you’re like many people, you’re self-conscious about your cellulite. But what is it, and how do you get rid of it? This guide explains.
Your Complete Guide to Cellulite (Including Treatments to Get Rid of It)
Cellulite can be unsightly, and for some people, it’s embarrassing. Fortunately, there are some things you can do – aside from a healthy diet and lots of exercise – that can help you minimize the cellulite on your body. This guide breaks down what cellulite is, where it comes from, and how you can treat it.
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What is Cellulite?
Cellulite is simply fat that’s deposited just under the skin. It’s not a different type of fat, and it’s not necessarily unhealthy. However, because it’s deposited in a different way than other types of fat, it can give the skin a dimpled, cottage-cheese-like appearance.
Cellulite is most common in women, and tends to appear on the thighs, buttocks, and stomach. This is because women have a different type of fat distribution than men. In addition, as we age, our skin becomes thinner and less elastic, which can also contribute to the appearance of cellulite.
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Where Does Cellulite Come From?
Cellulite is caused by a number of factors. First, it’s largely due to how fat is distributed in the body. Women tend to have more fat in their hips and thighs, which is where cellulite is most likely to appear. It comes from the natural buildup of fat in our bodies, and is exacerbated by things like weight gain, pregnancy, and menopause. In addition, cellulite is also affected by the structure of our skin. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and less elastic, which can make cellulite more visible. Your body type, your weight and your muscle tone all affect whether you have cellulite – and it’s important that you know even very fit people can develop cellulite, as well.
Is Cellulite Harmful to Your Body?
Cellulite itself is not harmful to your body. It’s simply a cosmetic issue – although, as we mentioned, it can be very embarrassing for some people. If you’re self-conscious about your cellulite, there are treatments available that can help to minimize its appearance.
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How Can You Get Rid of Cellulite?
There are a number of ways you can minimize the appearance of cellulite. First, if you’re overweight, losing weight can help – but it’s important to remember that even very thin people can have cellulite. In addition, there are a number of treatments that can help. These include:
- Massage
- Laser or radiofrequency treatments
- Cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting)
- Acoustic wave therapy
- Surgery
Here’s a closer look at each.
Cellulite-Blaster #1: Massage
One of the most popular cellulite treatments is massage. This is because massage can help break down the fat deposits that cause cellulite, and it can also improve circulation, which can help to prevent the formation of new cellulite. There are a number of different types of massage you can try – from manual lymphatic drainage to deep tissue massage – and you can even do it yourself at home with a cellulite massager.
Cellulite-Blaster #2: Laser and Radiofrequency Treatments
Laser and radiofrequency treatments are two of the most popular – and most effective – cellulite treatments available. These treatments work by heating up the fat cells, which causes them to shrink. This, in turn, helps to smooth out the skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Laser and radiofrequency treatments are usually done in a series of sessions, and you’ll see the best results after about 8-10 treatments.
Cellulite-Blaster #3: Cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting)
Cryolipolysis, also known as CoolSculpting, is a new cellulite treatment that’s becoming increasingly popular. This treatment works by freezing the fat cells, which causes them to die. The dead fat cells are then flushed out of the body by the lymphatic system. Cryolipolysis is usually done in a series of treatments, and you’ll see the best results after about 2-3 treatments.
Cellulite-Blaster #4: Acoustic Wave Therapy
Acoustic wave therapy is a new cellulite treatment that’s becoming increasingly popular. This treatment uses sound waves to break down the fat cells, which helps to smooth out the skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Acoustic wave therapy is usually done in a series of treatments, and you’ll see the best results after about 3-5 treatments.
Cellulite-Blaster #5: Surgery
If you’re looking for a more drastic solution, there are a number of surgical options that can help. These include liposuction, which can help to break down the fat cells that cause cellulite, and skin-tightening procedures, which can help to improve the appearance of loose, saggy skin. We always recommend trying other methods before resorting to surgery; you don’t want to put your body through more than you need to when you’re trying to get the results you want.
A Word on Diet and Exercise Related to Cellulite
While diet and exercise can’t get rid of cellulite, they can help to prevent it. Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly will help to keep your body – and your skin – in top condition, which can help to minimize the appearance of cellulite. In addition, staying hydrated is important, as it helps to keep your skin plump and hydrated, which can also help to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Ready to Talk About Cellulite Treatment in Ann Arbor?
Our Ann Arbor med spa can help you get the look you want, from clear and youthful skin to fat reduction. Call or text us at 734-249-8722 or fill out the form below to get in touch.
