What is cellulite?

Everybody knows what cellulite looks like, but few actually know what it is. Most people assume that it is simply fat; however, this is not necessarily true. Cellulite is related to fat but is not entirely the same thing, and in fact unhealthy techniques used to combat weight gain can actually increase the appearance of cellulite on a person’s body, such as smoking cigarettes.

The first thing to realize when looking for a cellulite treatment is that there are three different kinds of fat under that form under the skin. The layer where cellulite lives is called the subcutaneous layer and it is responsible for the clumping effect for which it is known. This layer is much more defined in women than men, which is why a woman are up to five times more susceptible to cellulite than a man.

The unique thing about the subcutaneous layer is that the fat is neatly stored in little chambers. When women begin to age their estrogen levels shoot up, which weakens the bonds that keep the surface of the skin smooth and firm. The walls that separate these nice neat chambers can break down, resulting in an unattractive fatty bulge. Multiplied numerous times around the waist and thighs, and you get the familiar “orange peel” effect of cellulite.

So understanding the science behind cellulite, when looking for a cellulite cure it is important to take into account the substances put in the body and the amount of activity it receives. By eating healthy foods which are rich in vitamins and nutrients and keeping an active lifestyle by exercising regularly, most women can expect to keep their cellulite problems under control.

However, sometimes diet and exercise just aren’t enough to overcome the body’s raging hormones, and a more direct treatment is necessary. Thanks to today’s technologies there are a variety of creams and lotions as well as supplements and massage therapists that all work together to combat cellulite on even the most stubborn places. If you can’t get rid of stubborn cellulite, consider going one of these routes.