Answering Common Cellulite Questions

At our Wilsonville dermatology clinic, we know just how unpopular cellulite can be among our patients. Since most of our patients want youthful and vibrant-looking skin, the development of cellulite can cause a lot of unwanted concern.

Cellulite refers to the formation of lumps or dimples in the skin, and, unfortunately, the development of cellulite is completely normal. While the condition can impact both men and women, it’s far more common in women due to the different distributions of muscle, fat, and connective tissue in their respective body types. In fact, between 80 to 90 percent of women may develop cellulite at some point in their lives.

Even if cellulite is harmless and a part of the aging process doesn’t mean you have to accept it without putting up a fight. At our Wilsonville dermatology clinic, we often have patients asking us questions about cellulite and what they can do to lessen the impact it can have on their skin. So let’s take a look at a few common questions regarding cellulite.

Can a tan help to disguise cellulite?

Yes, it can. A little bit of color can make the lumps and dimples caused by cellulite a little less noticeable. Unfortunately, tanning can damage the skin on its own. If you’re interested in keeping your skin looking its golden best, try using a self-tanning spray or cream instead of spending time sunbathing.

Can a low-fat diet help to eradicate cellulite?

Unfortunately, studies have not found proof that any type of special diet can help to reduce cellulite. Since no miracle diet can make cellulite vanish, your best course of action is to eat a generally healthy diet. That means lots of fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains instead of processed, and lean protein over fatty. Stick with this type of diet and you’ll enjoy good overall health which will make your skin look and feel its best.

Can losing weight can help make cellulite look better?

Absolutely! If you’re overweight, losing a few pounds can help your body appear leaner and healthier. Extra body fat can make the appearance of cellulite more noticeable, but be careful not to take your weight loss too far. Losing too much weight can actually make cellulite look worse. Try getting as close as possible to the target weight for your height and age and you’ll start to look and feel far better than before.

Is there a type of cream that can cure or eradicate cellulite?

Sadly, no. Science has not advanced to the point where a miracle cream can work to eradicate cellulite that has already developed. If you want to get firmer thighs for bathing suit season or for a new dress, there are some creams that can provide some temporary help. Anti-cellulite creams containing caffeine tighten up skin for up to six hours.

Can herbal wraps help make cellulite look better?

They sure can, for a few days at least. Whether the homemade DIY type or what you can find at a spa, wraps can offer some short-term relief.

Shrinking wraps may help to smooth the “orange peel” look usually associated with mild cellulite. Moisturizing wraps may work to better plump up the skin to help smooth the appearance of bumps.

Just make sure not to set your expectations too high. These types of treatments won’t last for more than a few days, but they can provide a noticeable improvement for your next big outing or day at the beach.

Can laser treatments offer permanent results?

Unfortunately, just like over-the-counter remedies, most cosmetic procedures offer only limited results.

The laser treatments Cellulaze and Cellfina have made headlines as helping to eradicate cellulite. While these treatments have proven effective, the results they do provide only last for between one to three years.

 

While cellulite may cause some unwanted hassles, you don’t have to let it ruin how you feel about your appearance. Contact our Wilsonville dermatology clinic today to discover what treatment options may help to reduce the impact cellulite has on your skin.