Cellulite Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Cellulite is a term used to describe skin conditions that have dimples and appear lumpy. This condition is found more in women than men. An estimated 80 to 90 percent of women have cellulite.
In the medical world, cellulite is also known as edematous fibrosclerotic panniculopathy (EFP). This condition basically does not endanger the lives of people who have it. However, cellulite can reduce a person’s self-confidence.
Cellulite Symptoms
In cellulite, the skin will appear lumpy and have dimples. This situation can also appear similar to orange peel. Most of the time, cellulite is found on the hips, buttocks, and stomach. In mild circumstances, these marks may not be visible unless the skin is pinched.
There are several levels of severity of cellulite:
- Grade 1 or mild, the skin looks like an orange peel with one to four dimples or depressions on the surface of the skin, the skin can appear slightly loose.
- Grade 2 or moderate, there are five to nine dimples with moderate depth, the skin looks like cottage cheese and looks quite loose.
- Grade 3 or severe, the skin looks like a mattress with ten or more deep depressions and looks very loose.
Cellulite Reason
The exact cause of cellulite is not known. However, it is thought that cellulite is caused by the interaction between the connective tissue in the various layers beneath the surface of the skin and the layer of fat that lies beneath the skin.
In women, fat cells and connective tissue are arranged vertically on the skin. Whereas in men, this arrangement is arranged in a cross or intersect. This causes cellulite to be more common in women, although it does not rule out the possibility that men can also have it.
The fatty tissue that protrudes on the surface of the skin gives cellulite its characteristic appearance. Cellulite is also thought to be caused by shrinking or shortening of the fibrous tissue that binds the skin together.
There are several factors that influence the appearance of cellulite, among others:
- Hormonal factors and age
A decrease in estrogen production (for example during menopause) has an impact on decreased blood flow which triggers a decrease in oxygen levels. As a result, there is a decrease in collagen production. In addition, decreased levels of estrogen are associated with enlargement of fat cells.
Older age also causes the appearance of the skin to become less elastic, thin, and looks sagging.
- Genetic factors affect the metabolic rate, the distribution of fat under the skin, the state of blood circulation, and so on. These things can affect the appearance of cellulite.
- Diet and lifestyle.
Cellulite is more common in those who have a diet high in fat and carbohydrates, high in salt, and low in fiber; smoker; those who rarely exercise; sitting or standing for long periods of time; frequent use of tight clothing especially in the buttocks area (eg tight underwear); and those with excess fat.
Diagnosis
Cellulite is generally easy to recognize based on its distinctive appearance. No special investigations are needed to help establish the diagnosis of cellulite.
Cellulite Treatment
There are many therapies that can be done to treat cellulite, not all of them are effective in dealing with this condition. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has reviewed several treatment methods that are considered effective for treating cellulite. Generally, the way this method works is to break down the connective tissue that lies beneath the surface of the skin.
Some methods that can help overcome cellulite are:
- Acoustic wave therapy, using a tool that emits sound waves
- Laser
- Subcision, inserting a needle under the surface of the skin to break up the connective tissue
- Vacuum-assisted precise tissue release, using a tool consisting of several small blades
- Carboxytherapy put carbon dioxide under the skin
- Endermologie, using massage combined with a vacuum-like device
- Ionithermie cellulite reduction treatment, using special mud
- Radiotherapy
- Laser-assisted liposuction
- Ultrasonic Liposuction
The use of several types of creams and drugs, such as caffeine and retinol, is also recommended because it works on fat cells.