The dreaded 'C' word - Cellulite!
The dreaded 'C' word - Cellulite!
We're all embracing our curves and loving the skin we are in, however there is no harm in wanting to get 'beach body' ready. Cellulite affects 9 out of 10 women at some point in their life. But it’s not their fault….it's simply a natural normal part of a woman’s body.
What is cellulite, why does it get under our skin and how can we improve it?
There are 4 things that together cause those signature dimples.
- Thinning skin
- Fat cells
- Fibrous bands
- Reduced collagen and elastin
Everyone has fat deposits, why are they now more visible?
As we age we start to lose collagen and elastin and our skin becomes thinner. Fat cells enlarge and push against the skin while the fibrous bands thicken, causing tension and ‘puckering’ hence the signature dimpling in our thighs and butt.
Why do I see more women with cellulite than men?
Women’s connective tissue is arranged vertically allowing fat cells to travel easily to the surface. Men’s tissue is arranged in a crisscross form making it more difficult for those fat cells to push up against the top dermal layer and create that uneven dimple-like texture. Men can definitely get cellulite, it’s just biologically easier for it to show up on women.
How do I get rid of cellulite?
The main goal of each treatment listed below is to break up the connective tissue, decrease the amount of fatty deposits, strengthen and thicken the skin.
To date there are no studies showing treatments to be 100% effective at permanently getting rid of cellulite. However, here are treatments that will improve the appearance of cellulite and are great for overall health. Can’t hurt.
At-home skincare treatments - BODY Microneedling
BODY Microneedling creates the optimal environment for the body's natural process of repair and renewal. Micro-channels are created in the epidermis which help guide key nutrients to deeper level skin cells. Microneedling supports the production of new collagen and elastin for improved skin tone, texture and firmness. Over time skin strengthens and thickens, which helps minimise the dimple appearance.
Creams & oils
Topically applied creams and oils can’t physically alter the state of connective tissue, however absorption can be amplified when combined with BODY microneedling. Research has shown this can be up to 3x more than topical application could ever achieve. They can also create smooth looking hydrated skin and help to boost collagen production, which in the long-term will help to create healthy, firm-looking skin that may diminish the appearance of cellulite.
Foam-rolling & dry brushing
Without great circulation, our muscles become taut rubber bands, stretched to their max and on the verge of breaking. Just like massage, foam rolling and dry brushing work to soften that tension, break up the fascia directly under our dermal layer and restore some elasticity to the muscles. This also encourages oxygen flow.
Squats
I’m a huge advocate for squats to strengthen the muscles in the lower body and of course tone the butt. Which in turn improves the appearance of cellulite. Whether with or without weights aim for 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
Diet
Spices - Cayenne pepper and Chilli may help encourage the metabolism. Also herbs like Ginger, Garlic and Turmeric also help improve circulation and the lympatic system.
Milk Thistle, Dandelion and Nettle - A sluggish liver can encourage congestion and play a part in hormone imbalances that translate into stubborn cellulite. These detoxifying herbs can be taken as a tea or tincture.
Oily Fish - Although we want to reduce the consumption of oily meat, the good fats from oily fish can really help reduce inflammation, support the skin structure and encourage hormone balance.
In-office cellulite proceedures
There are a number of In-office treatments and some are more successful than others. They include medical-microneedling, heat therapy, suction treatments, deep massage and under-the-skin needling with carbon dioxide gas (CO2) to break up the connective tissue. Results vary on a case-by-case basis.
"Our skin health is reflected in the quality of our whole lifestyle, from nutrition, emotional health, the products we use, and even the air we breathe. When your body's natural renewal processes are supported and nourished, you can achieve the best version of yourself - and your best skin yet." Professor Augustinus Bader
All of these treatments offer their own merits in improving cellulite and a combination approach is advised. Our BODY Microneedling rollers are available in two needle lengths, 0.5mm and 0.75mm, whichever you chose please be gentle with yourself and be patient.
Sources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/149465.php
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