The Science of Cellulite
April 2010
By Chelisse Gillam - CES, CLS, Aesthetician
'Cellulite' is a term used to describe the dimpled appearance of skin, resulting from excess water, toxins, and fat trapped in connective tissues. Cellulite is a common cosmetic condition that affects 80-90% of women, regardless of age, size, or shape. The causes of cellulite are still poorly understood. Factors influencing cellulite include genetic predisposition, hormones, hydration, diet, exercise, stress, and medications. These factors influence where and how fat is stored, where and how fluid is retained, and the amount and arrangement of collagen and elastin fibers in the connective tissue layers of the skin.
The severity and location of the cellulite is also related to these factors. Lymphatic and circulatory insufficiency exacerbates the development of cellulite. Aging also promotes cellulite since the subcutaneous skin layer becomes thinner.
Cellulite is primarily seen in women, rarely in men. This is due to how muscle, fat, and connective tissue are distributed differently in women. Also, the high level of estrogen is a contributing factor.
There are several non-surgical treatment options on the market for cellulite. Treatments include creams, pills, and laser therapy. A restricted diet in which salty, chemically additive, and spicy foods are eliminated may also help. Also, a proper exercise regime to help improve circulation will also aid in the elimination of cellulite. How well a product or treatment will help to minimize the appearance also depends on the age of the cellulite. A combined regime of products/treatments, exercise, and healthy diet may reduce the visibility of cellulite. No treatment option is permanent. Cellulite can continue to develop as we age. The primary function of treatment is to improve the appearance of cellulite by enhancing skin tone, tightening skin, and promoting lymphatic drainage. An integrated approach to cellulite is probably best of all.
On the cutting edge in the rapidly expanding field of body sculpting is VelaSmooth from Syneron, a modern, noninvasive treatment that utilizes an innovative approach to reducing cellulite and leaving skin smoother and less dimpled. The treatment combines infrared light and radio frequencies along with mechanical massage and vacuum suction to manipulate fatty tissue, resulting in reduction of collagen and improved circulation to the area.
VelaSmooth is safe for any kind of skin and particularly effective on large areas of the body such as the abdomen, thighs, buttocks or upper arms. Velasmooth is the first and only medical device with the revolutionary elos (electro-optical synergy) combined energy technology by Syneron. By using Bi-Polar Radio Frequency and Infrared Light - plus tissue mobilization combined with suction, the appearance of cellulite is reduced and problem areas are re-contoured.
The machine uses light and radio frequency to heat up fat cells, breaking them apart and sending them to the lymph nodes for the body to dispose of naturally. The Velasmooth also uses suction to gently smooth the skin during treatment so the light and radio frequency are delivered uniformly.
By reducing the number of fat cells and affecting the intra-fat structure, the treated area becomes smoother and more elastic. The radio frequency also causes a mild contraction that visually lifts and firms the area, especially noticeable in the buttocks.
- Conducted Radio Frequency increases oxygen intracellular diffusion by heating tissue.
- Infrared Light increases elasticity of skin and heats subcutaneous fat, while safeguarding the skin from damage.
- Vacuum manipulates and smooths out the skin to facilitate safe and efficient energy delivery. The FDA has approved the VelaSmooth, a revolutionary aesthetic device for the treatment of cellulite. VelaSmooth reduces the appearance of cellulite to safely and effectively re-contour the skin's surface.
Harmony Laser also offers detoxifying Milis body wraps to aid in the reduction of cellulite. This is a patented wrap, developed by at biochemist. Our wraps encourage the circulatory and lymphatic system to work more effectively, freeing trapped toxins within the cells. Body wrapping is used to help in healing a wide-range of skin problems, including toning and tightening, circulation, muscle and joint pain, and disintegrating fat so that it can be expelled from the body.
Additional Tips for avoiding cellulite include:
- Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber
- Staying hydrated with plenty of fluids
- Exercising regularly to keep muscles toned and bones strong
- Maintaining a healthy weight (no yo-yo dieting)
- Not smoking
References:
- What is Cellulite? What causes Cellulite?; Peter Crosta, M.A.; http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/149465.php
- Is Cellulite Forever?; Katherine Harmon; http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=is-cellulite-forever
- About Velasmooth; http://www.velasmooth.com/cellulite-reduction/
- Velasmooth Laser Treatments; http://www.locateadoc.com/surgery-guide.cfm/cosmetic-surgery
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