Cellulite happens to the best of us. When fat beneath the skin is pushed against the connective tissue, it results in puckered skin. You can help reduce the appearance of bumpy skin, or remove it all together, by knowing these 6 facts about cellulite.
1. It Loves Birthdays
Dimply skin is no stranger to the aging process. A woman’s dermis (the layer below the epidermis) reaches its maximal thickness around 30 years of age. As you get older, the skin thins out thanks to the lack of estrogen, the hormone that helps keep blood vessels active. This age-related change contributes to poorer circulation, which decreases collagen production and elastic fiber renewal. Your skin begins to break down connective tissue, and therefore accentuates the appearance of cellulite. In addition to hormonal changes, aging can also lead to changes in lifestyle such as exercising and dietary consumption, altering muscle strength and body weight.
2. It Runs in the Family
Does your mom suffer from bumpy skin? Unfortunately you might be a candidate, too. Cellulite is genetic, which is why some women have it more than others. It’s usually more concentrated on parts of your body with higher fat content such as thighs, hips and butt. On the positive side, the Peau d’orange appearance (French for orange peel skin) is not a health problem, just an aesthetic nuisance. With a healthy diet and exercise regimen, you will be more likely to cut your family ties with cellulite.
3. It Hearts Everyone
Regardless of your body shape and size, everyone has some layer of fat between their muscles and skin, which appears as a dimpled surface. Cellulite affects up to 90% of women at some point in their lives, though it’s not an indicator of your fitness level. Even the thinnest or most athletic woman can succumb to an uneven epidermis. Men also experience cellulite, but since it harbors around their midsection, it’s less noticeable.
4. It’s Addicted to Smoking
Cancer, premature wrinkles and stained teeth are plenty of reasons to kick the smoking habit, but here is one more to add to your no smoking list: rocking bumpy skin. Smoking has shown to reduce blood flow in the body, which disrupts the production of collagen. Smokers are likely to suffer from bulgy skin because the connective tissue doesn’t heal, and fat starts to show through the skin.
5. It Can Be Filled In
If you want cellulite-free legs, there’s a temporary solution to puckered skin. Injectable fillers, which are popular for facial procedures, are also appropriate to correct the appearance of cellulite. The syringe has plumping agents that help smooth skin and add volume, reducing or even removing the potholes in the butt and thighs. This miracle treatment comes with a hefty price tag, though, ranging around $900 to $1800. The results can last up to two years.
6. It Goes Away Naturally
You can help win the fight against cellulite by exercising, drinking plenty of water and eating well. Groceries rich in vitamin C are cellulite-busters since they increase levels of collagen in the skin. Colorful produce also helps battle cellulite, thanks to their high levels of antioxidants. Blood-boosting foods such as bananas, mangoes, and papayas help prevent tissue damage under the skin. Finally, fill your plate with skin-strengthening foods such as salmon and chicken breast, with a side of vegetables high in water content: cucumber, celery and asparagus.
