What is Cellulite?
Cellulite is a fat deposit in the body which causes an uneven, dimpled, pocketed or bumpy appearance to skin in any region of the body. When considering the question “what is cellulite,” you must think in terms of cellular types, as cellulite is caused by a concentrated abundance of fat cells in a particular area of the body. These fat cells sit just under the layers of the dermis and can be even more obvious as a result of poor skin condition, restricted blood blow or decreased lymphatic function.
Cellulite typically appears in the stomach, buttocks, and thighs but can take root in any region of the body. It is actually a term used to describe the condition of the skin rather than fat itself, as the fat cells below the dermis affect the appearance of the skin.
So what does cellulite look like? The answer is that cellulite can take on a number of appearances, with the cottage-cheesy look being the most well known and easily recognizable form of the condition.
It can also result in a pasty looking appearance to the skin, especially in lower temperatures. There can be a roughness to the skin’s surface, looking almost like the peel of an orange, minus the color, of course.
In the beginning stages, cellulite may not even be visible to the eye. Minute cellular changes in body tissue can mark the development of cellulite without you even being able to see that it is occurring.
Cellulite is present in men and women. Women are, however, more likely to develop obvious cellulite as they’re bodies hold more fat naturally.
The Definition of Cellulite
The cellulite definition includes three grades of the condition. The first is the minute cellular changes mentioned above. The second is the stage in which cellulite causes skin to change color, particularly when cold, and the third is the point at which cellulite becomes obvious at all times. This last stage is when the condition of the skin is compromised completely and the obvious presence of fat below the surface of the skin becomes even more pronounced due to less elastic, pocketed or dimpled skin.
Cellulite is also known by several clinical names, including adiposis edematosa, status protrusus cutis, gyniod lipdystrophy, and dermopanniculosis deformans. All of these terms are among the cellulite definition, though other underlying conditions can contribute to the presence of cellulite in each case.
How does Cellulite Affect the Body
Cellulite not only affects individuals from a psychological standpoint, it actually results in several negative physical consequences as well. Cellulite leads to decreased blood flow to affected areas. It can result in lymphatic issues as well. Water retention is another possible consequence of the presence of cellulite.
Cellulite Causes & How To Get Rid Of It
The exact what causes cellulite is unknown but it’s likely that a combination of factors contribute to its development, including genetics, diet, activity level, and hormonal changes. Many believe that restrictive clothing and lifestyle choices like smoking, can also contribute to the development of cellulite.
Cellulite can be surgically removed in some cases. Less invasive treatments are also available, including radio frequency treatment, heat therapy, and massage. Cellulite home remedies are also commonly employed and include everything from diet adjustments and special exercise programs to the application of coffee grounds to affected regions of the skin. Topical lotions, serums and creams are also common treatments for cellulite though all of these topical remedies require consistent use to prevent recurrence of the condition.
Most people find that a combined approach is best for getting rid of cellulite. While topical lotions and creams can improve skin condition, diet and exercise changes should also be undertaken. By improving your overall health and lifestyle you lessen the presence of cellulite and also prevent more from developing.