Cellulite Is Beyond The Obvious

There are perhaps not many things as or more frustrating and disconcerting than cellulite. “Orange peel”, “cottage cheese,” and the slightly bemusing “mattress phenomenon” are just some of the common and unflattering terms used to describe its appearance.

Here’s a read on what cellulite is about to help you better understand the condition and take either preventive or remedial action, depending on your current state.

Cellulite facts

A key contributing factor to the appearance of cellulite is poor blood flow or circulation. The reasons behind this are plenty, and they include:

• Genetics

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Lack of proper or healthy diet

• Ageing

The above does not need further elaboration, but perhaps the interesting point is that being in a deskbound job constitutes a “sedentary lifestyle”. So do remember to get up from your seat, move around and massage your legs to promote better circulation.

As far as ageing is concerned - even though it is a natural process - you can adopt healthy skincare practices, good dietary habits, and a lifestyle that includes physical activity (and mental exercises). These can help reduce its harsh effects not only when it comes to cellulite but your overall well-being in general.

According to the clinical presentation, the scale used to classify cellulite is proposed by Nürnberger and Müller, based on FOUR grades.
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Zero: No changes
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Grade I: Visible changes in muscle contraction
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Grade II: Visible changes when there is no manipulation
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Grade III: Visible changes associated with nodulations

Cellulite myths

There is a copious amount of myth surrounding cellulite. Some of which include:

• It only happens to women

[1] Men do get cellulite. The only (slight) difference is that more women tend to be more affected in comparison, and this is because women carry more fat around the thighs and hips. Additionally, women have less connective tissue, and these, together with the fat cells, are arranged vertically as opposed to a criss-cross structure like in men.

• Only overweight individuals are affected

[2] People who are not overweight are affected by cellulite. It’s just that overweight individuals carry more fat, especially under the skin, resulting in more visible cellulite.

• Cellulite brush (dry brushing), Lotions, and topical skin-firming creams are effective

[3] As for lotions and topical creams, those that contain retinol provide temporary “camouflage” (that’s what they essentially do), but that’s about it. It’s not a long-term solution.