What Causes Cellulite?

Epione Beverly Hills Staff
May 4, 2017

If you’re battling the bulgy, dimpled lumps on your thighs, arms or stomach, you’re not alone. In fact, anyone can develop cellulite, the pesky condition in which the skin appears to have areas of underlying fatty deposits. Contrary to popular belief, cellulite is not associated to weight gain although it can make it more noticeable. Even very thin people can develop cellulite. But just what causes cellulite?

Common Causes of Cellulite

The causes of cellulite are not clearly defined, but there are several risk factors that have been put forth as explanation for what causes cellulite. Among these are:▪ Hormonal Factors- Hormones play an important role in cellulite development. Estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones and prolactin are part of the cellulite production process. When your bodies start producing less estrogen, it leads to poorer circulation, a decrease in new collagen production and the breakdown of older connective tissue.▪ Genetics- Certain genes are required for cellulite development. Genes may predispose an individual to particular characteristics associated with cellulite, such as gender, race and slow metabolism.▪ Diet- Poor nutrition can increase the likelihood of cellulite production. People who eat too much fat, carbohydrates, salt, or refined and processed foods are likely to have greater amounts of cellulite.▪ Dehydration- Not getting enough water can cause toxic buildup in the fat cells that’s difficult for the body to metabolize. Dehydration also causes thinner, weaker skin – and when skin is weakened, it has a much greater tendency to show cellulite. So, increasing your intake of water can aid your body in metabolizing fat, ridding itself of toxins and hiding cellulite via thicker, healthier skin.▪ Lifestyle- Cellulite may be more prevalent in smokers, those who do not exercise, and those who sit or stand in idle positions for long periods of time. If you’re chained to a desk all day, spend a portion of your day standing up at your desk or simply take small breaks to walk around the office.▪ Smoking Cigarettes- Cigarette smoke can reduce blood vessel flow and circulation, which weakens and disrupts the formation of collagen. This causes the connective tissue to stretch, weaken and become damaged more easily. As a result, more cellulite will show through.▪ Clothing- Clothing with tight elastic restricting blood flow may contribute to the formation of cellulite. Compression-style apparel may temporarily “suck it all in” but it won’t make a lasting change to the appearance of cellulite. In fact, tight fitting clothing can reverse the effect if they cut off circulation and limit blood circulation.▪ Lack of Muscle- Building up muscle will help decrease the appearance of cellulite. For the back of your legs, try hamstring curls or single leg deadlift. The purpose of increasing lean muscle mass is to decrease the appearance of cellulite.

Cellulite Prevention

A healthy lifestyle can go a long way to reduce cellulite production. Eating healthy, low fat foods such as fruits, vegetables and fiber can help. Similarly exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stress are recommended to prevent cellulite.

Schedule a Consultation

Are you unhappy with how a certain part of your body looks? Are you struggling with body issues or weight issues, and feel as though no matter what you do, you cannot feel better?Epione, located in the heart of Beverly Hills, is one of the most comprehensive cellulite treatment centers of its kind in the world. The practice specializes in the most current technology available for skin, hair, and body contouring, and its staff is dedicated to providing our clients with the highest level of personal attention and care. For more information, feel free to schedule a consultation.

Disclaimer Regarding Treatment Comparisons and AI-Generated Content

The opinions and comparisons expressed in this article are based on Dr. Simon Ourian's professionalexperience, clinical observations, aesthetic philosophy, and publicly available information at the timeof publication.

References to competing products, technologies, procedures, practitioners, or manufacturers are notintended to disparage any individual, company, or organization. Any comparisons reflect Dr. Ourian'sopinions and clinical experience and should not be construed as statements of fact regarding thesuperiority, inferiority, safety, efficacy, or performance of any competing product or treatment.Medical technologies, scientific research, treatment protocols, and regulatory guidance continue toevolve. Information presented in this article may become outdated over time and should not beconsidered comprehensive or definitive medical guidance.

Comparisons between products, procedures, technologies, treatment approaches, manufacturers, oraesthetic outcomes are provided for informational and educational purposes only. Individualpractitioners may have different experiences, preferences, treatment protocols, and opinionsregarding the products or procedures discussed.

No statement contained in this article should be interpreted as a guarantee, warranty, prediction, orpromise of any specific result. Individual outcomes vary significantly based on anatomy, age, skinquality, medical history, genetics, lifestyle factors, treatment technique, and adherence to pre- andpost-treatment instructions.

Portions of this article may have been generated, assisted, summarized, or edited using artificialintelligence (AI) tools. While reasonable efforts have been made to review and verify the content foraccuracy, completeness, and relevance, some information may be incomplete, outdated, inaccurate,or subject to interpretation. Readers should independently verify any information before relying uponit.

The content provided is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not intendedas medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers should consult with a qualified healthcareprofessional regarding their individual circumstances and treatment options before making anymedical or aesthetic decisions.

Results vary from patient to patient. No outcome is guaranteed. Some or all of this contentmay have been created, edited, or enhanced using artificial intelligence technology, anddespite review efforts, inaccuracies may exist.

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