The Pros and Cons of Different Cellulite Treatments

Cellulite is every woman’s nightmare. While it can occur in both men and women, it is most often found in females because of estrogen. Moreover, women’s skin is thinner in comparison with men’s, making the dimpled appearance more noticeable in women.

Cellulite is not just limited to the overweight as it can also occur in individuals who have average weight and even those who are underweight. Genes, hormones, fad diets, a sedentary lifestyle, and smoking are all factors that contribute to cellulite formation.

There are a number of methods that can be used to combat cellulite. The following are among the most popular forms of cellulite treatments. To give a better perspective of the various treatment methods, pros and cons of each are provided.

Cellulite creams

Pros: This type of treatment method is made to work by dissolving fat and making the skin smoother. As there are numerous cellulite creams and solutions around, it is best to check the labels. One of the ingredients used in cellulite creams is aminophylline, which is typically used to treat asthma, as it narrows blood vessels and force the skin to expel water. Cons: Cellulite creams that are made with aminophylline can cause an allergic reaction in some people while the retinoid-based types were found to increase the denseness of the epidermis to facial skin when used for several years.

Massage

Pros: This is one sought after method of reducing or eliminating cellulite. Its effects are more enhanced when a cream is applied and massaged on the area. Massage enhances blood flow and lymph flow in the body. Cons: When massage is done incorrectly, it can injure veins and capillaries, often resulting to the formation of bruises, varicose veins, and other related conditions. Also, massage does not remove the cellulite and the effects are usually short-lived.

Liposuction

Pros: This surgical procedure can remove fat deposits from the body, particularly deep fat. Cons: Since the method involves removing deep fat, it cannot remove cellulite, which is located just under the skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, liposuction may actually aggravate the appearance of cellulite as it creates more dimples on the skin.

Endermologie

Pros: Endermologie is a skin kneading method that uses a device to roll on thighs, legs, stomach and buttocks with the objective of removing cellulite. Treatment sessions last from 35 to 45 minutes. Cons: Research done to analyze the effects of endermologie in the treatment of cellulite does not show legitimate efficacy.

Exercise

Pros: Exercise has been shown to provide positive results in getting rid of cellulite. Studies done in female athletes, who generally have lower body fat percentage, have less cellulite. Cons: Exercise to remove cellulite requires at least three to five times a week for a minimum of twenty minutes to an hour. While not necessarily a disadvantage, the time it takes to see actual results may not be feasible for everyone.

When it comes to the issue of cellulite, women tend to welcome anything that can help them deal with the problem. While numerous topical treatments and manipulative methods may seem appealing, long-term effectiveness remains an unanswerable aspect as of now. However, implementing a method that does not just aim to remove cellulite, but also improves general health is a very sensible move.