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:: Cosmetics - Skin Care
 Lessen Cellulite
 Why does cellulite occur, and how can we diminish
it?
Most women will develop cellulite, the dimpling
of the skin that's usually found on the thighs
and buttocks. Why? Fat The amount you have between the skin
and the muscle determines cellulite's severity.
Aging Muscle mass weakens and the fibrous
tissue loses strength as we get older.
Hormones Estrogen aids the storage of fat
in the hips, thighs and buttocks in preparation
for childbearing. It also makes fat cells sticky,
so they bunch together, contributing to the dimpled
effect.
Genetics If your mom has it, chances are
you will too. The skin is connected to underlying muscle by
vertical bands of fibrous tissue. Cellulite appears
when fat cells bulge up against the top layers
of skin while the fibrous bands pull down, much
like buttons on a mattress; this creates the "cottage
cheese" look. Our bodies' lymph system also
plays a role; normally it drains fluid from tissues
to rid the body of waste, but the trapped fat
cells and fibrous tissue can block drainage. This
trapped fluid can make the fat swell, adding to
the dimpling effect. How can we diminish it?
- Eat a good diet. Staying at a healthy weight
reduces the chances of cellulite forming.
- Exercise. Reduce fat with cardio workouts
and increase your strength with weight training
to help firm up muscles, which will give skin
a tighter and smoother appearance.
- Slather on a cellulite cream. These contain
ingredients like caffeine to temporarily tighten
skin, giving it a smoother, more toned look.
Massage in the creams; the rubbing can lessen
the swelling and improve lymphatic drainage
in the area.
- Try Endermologie. This form of deep-tissue
massage disperses the lumps of fat into a smoother
layer.
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