Can You Smooth Out Cellulite?

Can You Smooth Out Cellulite?

Products on the market today promise they can smooth out the dimples that many women get on the surface of their skin—especially on their buttocks and thighs. But can these products really combat Mother Nature?

How Does It Happen?
Just beneath the skin lies a layer of connective tissue. Cellulite develops when fat breaks through weakened areas in this tissue. The result: dimples. Exactly how this happens is unclear. But contributors to cellulite in women may include the following:

  • Poor circulation
  • Bloating
  • Excess body fat
  • Hormones, especially estrogen
  • Family history of cellulite
  • Age

Gender also is a factor. The connective tissue in women may weaken more easily than in men.

Act Early
While there is no proven permanent way to reduce cellulite once it’s settled in, women can do a lot to prevent it. The best weapons seem to be maintaining a healthy weight and getting regular exercise. Exercise builds muscle, which keeps connective tissues strong. Exercise also improves circulation. Good exercise choices include walking, running, and cycling.

What Can You Do for It?
Exercise and weight management also go a long way in helping women control cellulite. The following tips also may be beneficial:

  • Watch fat, carbohydrate, and sodium intake.
  • Control stress. Stress can stimulate fat cell production around the stomach.
  • Avoid using estrogen to control menopause symptoms.

Despite claims to the contrary, over-the-counter (OTC) wraps, rubs, creams, and lotions can’t actually get rid of cellulite. At best, they may temporarily make skin appear a bit smoother.

Many of these treatments contain caffeine and aminophylline, a drug used to treat asthma. These ingredients can lower the amount of fluid in your cells, making dimples slightly less evident. However, aminophylline can cause allergic reactions in some women.

For alternatives to OTC cellulite treatments, talk to your doctor. Prescription creams and medications, massage therapy, and surgery may improve appearance.

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