Treatments for Reducing Cellulite

Cellulite refers to dimpled skin found on the thighs, stomach or buttocks. It is more common in women than men and occurs when fat deposits distort the connective tissue under the skin. Having cellulite is normal, and factors such as heredity, amount of body fat and age can influence the amount a person has. Many treatments are available, but not all are as effective as others.

Methylxanthines in Cellulite Treatment Creams

• Methylxanthines are a group of chemicals that are known for their ability to break down fat stores. For this reason, they are key ingredients in many cellulite treatment creams. These creams are thoroughly rubbed into the affected area every day. Medicinenet.com reports that some studies of these types of creams have shown a slight reduction in cellulite, but the concentrations of methylxanthines in cellulite are not enough to bring about significant breakdown of fat.

Diet Supplements for Cellulite Treatment

• Many diet supplements, including such ingredients as oil of evening primrose, fish oil and sweet clover, have been marketed as treatments for cellulite, claiming to boost metabolism and break down fats. Unfortunately, metabolism is not easy to objectively measure, and no clinical studies have been completed on the efficacy of such supplements in cellulite treatment. Furthermore, food supplements are not subject to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements for efficacy and safety testing.

Massage for Cellulite Treatment

• Endermologie is a massage treatment that has been used as a cellulite treatment since the 1990s. The treatment involves the use of a machine that uses suction to pull and squeeze the affected area. Endermologie treatment is costly. Treatments last between 30 minutes and one hour, and as many as 12 sessions might be required. However, the FDA has approved endermologie as a treatment that temporarily reduces the appearance of cellulite.

Weight Loss & Exercise

• Biochemically, cellulite does not behave any differently from ordinary fat, so diet and exercise can have some impact on its appearance. Depending on age, weight and the individual, 30 to 45 minutes of aerobic exercise three times a week and resistance exercise (such as lifting weights) two or three times per week could reduce cellulite.

Why Liposuction is Not a Recommended Treatment for Cellulite

• Many people consider liposuction a shortcut to reducing cellulite. In fact, liposuction is not a recommended treatment for cellulite as it can worsen the problem by sucking out the "cushion" of fat under the skin, causing further dimpling.