Cellulite is a term used to describe the textured appearance of skin caused by fat deposits that are just below the surface of the skin. It most commonly appears on skin in the abdomen, lower limbs, and pelvic region, and it usually appears after puberty. In its medical terms, cellulite is also known as adiposis edematosa, dermopanniculosis deformans, status protrusus cutis, and gynoid lipodystrophy. If you are talking in everyday language you may hear it being described as “orange peel syndrome”, “cottage cheese skin”, “hail damage”, and “the mattress phenomenon”.
Cellulite is often categorised using three grades.
Grade 1 classification sees no clinical symptoms, but a microscopic examination of cells from the area detects underlying bodily changes.
Grade 2 cellulite requires the skin to show pallor (paleness), be lower temperature, and have less elasticity in addition to bodily changes noted by microscopic examinations.
Grade 3 cellulite has visible roughness of the skin (like an orange peel) along with all grade 2 signs.
Cellulite occurs in both men and women, but it is much more common in women because they are more likely to have particular types of fat and connective tissue.
What causes cellulite?
What causes cellulite is not well understood, but there are several theories that have been put forward as explanations. These include:
• Hormonal factors - hormones likely play an important role in cellulite development. Many believe estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones, and prolactin are part of the cellulite production process.
• Genetics - certain genes are required for cellulite development. Our genes may encourage us to show certain characteristics associated with cellulite, such as gender, race, slow metabolism, distribution of fat underneath the skin, and circulatory insufficiency.
• Diet - people who eat too much fat, carbohydrates, or salt and too little fiber are likely to have greater amounts of cellulite. It may also appear if in the past you have lost a lot of weight and your skins has changed dramatically.
• Lifestyle factors - cellulite may be more predominant in smokers, those who lack exercise, and those who sit or stand in one position for long periods of time, ie desk workers.
• Clothing - underwear with tight elastic across the bum (limiting blood flow) may also contribute to the formation of cellulite.
There are products on the market that can help with cellulite reduction or removal, make sure you do your research and find out which one suits your grade of cellulite best and your skin itself.
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