Cellulite: what is it?

La cellulitis, or dimpling, orange peel, etc … is the result of a change in the structure of adipose tissue (= fat reserves) housed under the epidermis. She gives the skin a “bumpy” appearance, deemed unsightly. It is observed especially at the rear of thighs and on the buttocks.

Cellulite almost exclusively affects women, in whom doctors consider it a normal physiological phenomenon. Near 9 out of 10 women are affected at one time or another in their life, for 1 in 50 men.

The time of its onset varies greatly from person to person, and depends on many aggravating factors.

There is no way to completely get rid of the cellulitis, unless it is very light. However, it is possible for some people to improve the appearance of their cellulite by various means. However, the effect of the treatments is temporary and they must be repeated to gain long-term benefit.

How is cellulite formed?

His causes are multifactorial and are not yet clearly established. Various hypotheses circulate. It could be that reactions ofinflammation participate. It has also been observed that female sex hormones,heredity,physical exercise andfood influence its appearance.

Cellulite involves a change in the structure of the gras located on the surface, under the skin, in specific areas of the body. The fat that is installed more deeply – that which is sometimes removed by liposuction – has no effect on the appearance of the skin. The cells that serve as fat reserves are housed inside small “chambers” delimited by “walls” of elastic connective tissue. The skin forms the “ceiling” of these rooms. In the presence of cellulite, there would be an increase in both the number of fat cells and Water retention. The chambers would swell, the walls would become bulging and as a result, would pull on the skin, making it appear quilted.

Possible consequences

Although the cellulitis essentially poses an aesthetic problem, it can give rise to a certain physical discomfort and even pain. Over time, cellulite tends to thicken, causing increased pressure on nerve endings and hypersensitivity in the affected area. In some women, palpation, touch, or even a simple brushing of their areas of cellulite sometimes produce a rather painful sensation. In addition, “old” cellulite can interfere with the local circulation of lymph fluid.