“It’s everywhere,” cried a member of Team Costhetics at our weekly meeting, “it’s everywhere, and nobody is talking about how to fix it!”

At first, we thought she was bemoaning the state of the world vis-à-vis Covid. We were wrong. She was talking about cellulite.

What Is Cellulite?

Cellulite is a condition where dimples and bumps appear on the surface of the skin, ultimately giving it the appearance and texture of an orange. As with many aesthetic changes linked to the ageing process, cellulite develops over time in stages:

• Stage 1 – Cellulite wrinkles appear if the skin is pinched
• Stage 2 – Pinching the skin causes dimpling to appear
• Stage 3 – Dimples are noticeable on the skin, but smooth out when the skin is stretched
• Stage 4 – Dimples remain visible even when skin is stretched taught. (At this stage, cellulite may actually be painful)

Cellulite is most common around the thighs and buttocks, but it can also be found on the breasts, lower abdomen, and upper arms.

Is Cellulite a Women’s Thing?

Researchers concur that cellulite affects 10% of men in their lifetime, but as many as 90% of women will already have cellulite by the time they finish puberty. How can that be? To begin with, women’s fat cells are naturally larger in size than men’s. More significantly, the formation of fibrous collagen in women is similar to a picket fence with large openings between the fibres and lots of room for fat to be stored. In the male of the species, those same collagen fibres are laid out in a lattice, making it more difficult for fat cells to accumulate and bulge. Hormones are another factor.

While cellulite may discriminate on the basis of gender, it is an equal opportunity nuisance when it comes to weight. Cellulite is problematic for people of all shapes and sizes. If Photoshop weren’t a thing, you would see cellulite on even the slimmest celeb or super-model. Even baby girls can have cellulite, often in the wrinkles of their bums.

Unfair, isn’t it?

What Causes Cellulite?

What’s really unfair is how little research was done into such a common problem prior to the 21st century. Here’s some of what we do know: 

• Cellulite is a term for the formation of bumpy, dimpled skin like an orange
• Cellulite dimples are caused by septa, a type of connective tissue made of collagen and elastin
• Fat is trapped in the pockets and begins to bulge, forming the characteristic appearance
• Poor circulation is a key contributor
• Carbohydrate-rich foods and beverages encourage the growth and storage of the fat cells that lead to cellulite

Along with new information about cellulite have come a growing number of solutions.

How to Treat Cellulite

Some of the most important research studies regarding cellulite have been conducted by dermatologists. Unfortunately, some of the most prominent cures for cellulite are developed by charlatans. Avoid creams and pills as there is no scientific evidence for their claims. Do go with doctor approved techniques, such as these recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology Association:

• Radiofrequency treatments
• Ultrasound
• Laser treatment
• Vacuum-assisted tissue release

Don’t forget: fat and cellulite are not identical. Fat removal treatments such as liposuction may or may not have any impact on dimpled skin. Weight loss can actually make cellulite more noticeable.

Got Cellulite? Don’t Do This

As we mentioned, there are some treatment options being offered without evidence to support their claims. For now, stay away from:

• Freezing (cryolipolysis)
• Mesotherapy
• Supplements that claim ingredients (caffeine, grapeseed extract) reduce cellulite

Why Costhetics Is Okay with Cellulite

As you now know, if you’re a woman, a run-in with cellulite is on the cards. Many women, and the occasional man, feel strongly about reducing the appearance of cellulite. A growing number of people, however, are re-thinking their position on cellulite. The dimpled skin associated with cellulite isn’t a flaw after all, it is simply one more sign of your uniqueness.

At Costhetics we see beauty this way: the most appealing attribute you can have is self- confidence. Don’t be self-conscious, let it all hang out in shorty-short shorts, itty-bitty mini dresses, and show-it-off swimwear.

Help Finding Cellulite Solutions in Australia

Should you choose to go ahead with any aesthetic enhancement, Costhetics would be happy to help you find a qualified doctor in your area so you can begin your transformational journey in good hands.