Included in the misinformation about cellulite is the idea that certain topical cosmetic preparations and creams can solve it. They can of course improve the appearance of the skin for a time, but the effects soon wear off and cellulite reappears. Cellulite is what we call an uneven surface of the skin which looks a little like orange peel. It is caused by changes going on beneath skin level in little chambers that house fat cells.
So to gain a better understanding about cellulite, we need to grapple with a few terms and definitions to help us picture the deeper, underlying causes of this skin effect. Before we continue, here are a few key words and definitions we need to know and understand:
- Epidermis: the outer layer of skin that lies over the dermis
- Dermis: the inner layer of skin which contains among other things hair follicles, sweat glands, and connective tissue
- Subcutaneous tissue: The layers of fat that lie underneath the skin
- Connective tissue: a biological category of tissue made up of various cells and interlacing protein fibres (collagen)
Now with these definitions in mind, let’s see what happens to cause the cellulite effect. The upper layers of subcutaneous tissue contain interesting little chambers which hold fat cells. The chambers are flexible and as they fill with fat cells they begin to bulge and protrude into the area called the dermis, which remember is just under the outer layer of skin called the epidermis. It is this process which affects the appearance of the surface of the skin, creating an uneven, or dimpled surface. In certain standing or sitting positions, such as when a woman crosses her legs, the thighs may resemble the surface of a mattress.
Now here are some other facts that help us gain a better understanding about cellulite. First, women generally store more fat than men in body areas like the hips, thighs, and buttocks. Secondly, the fat cell chambers in women are supported by connective tissue arranged in a vertical fashion in the subcutaneous tissue, whereas in men the chambers are many sided, and the connective tissue and fat cells appear in a criss cross fashion resembling a net so the bulges are not so conspicuous. This explains why the cellulite effect is mostly found in women.
Men can be affected if their hormone levels are imbalanced. If there is a male hormone deficiency, the subcutaneous layer in a man may actually resemble more the structure in a woman, and cellulite might then appear.
Another point, as it is the buttocks and thighs which tend to store more body fat in women, it is obvious these are the body areas more likely to be susceptible to uneven skin appearance we call cellulite.
We can also understand the importance of the interlacing protein fibres or collagen which help make up the connective tissue. Collagen, like elastic, can stretch and return to the normal shape, if pressure is put on it. During the aging process, collagen can become loose, losing some of its elasticity, which in turn allows the fat cell chambers to protrude into the dermis if an individual puts on weight. Remember also, skin elasticity begins to deteriorate after 35 to 40 years of age.
Consider this discovery about cellulite also: it can affect all kinds of individuals, the slim, those of medium weight, and the over-weight. Why? As we have discussed, because of the structural changes that go on underneath the skin level. However, it is often more noticeable in over-weight persons.
Where does all of this lead us when it comes to the question: “What can I do about cellulite?” It should be obvious that creams and skin applications can at best only provide temporary relief. For more permanent solutions we need to delve into the under the skin areas and effect changes in what lies under the dermis. If there is more muscle than fat, then of course, that will be reflected in a smoother skin surface.
So we come to the point on exercise. If you want to do something about cellulite, you will need to get into a regular exercise program. But not just any exercise program. It has to be properly planned. Strength training and aerobic exercise together are needed to form an effective program to fight cellulite.
Some suggest about 20 minutes on each about 2 or preferably 3 times a week. There are numerous resources on the internet which can provide help in devising such an exercise plan (see resource box).
So we have arrived at the conclusion that cellulite is not a surface matter than can easily be dealt with by creams and lotions. If you are serious in your desire to do something about cellulite, you will need to develop the discipline needed for a regular exercise routine. Of course, the health benefits are many. Perhaps the motivation to do something about cellulite will provide benefits to other parts of the body and to one’s level of health in general.
