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According to the NIH, cellulite is an extremely common skin condition that occurs in 80-90% of women. Nevertheless, the dents texture in our thighs, buttocks and hips can often be a source of insecurity. Case in point: the tabloids were known for ripping celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Britney Spears, berating them for “losing the battle with cellulite.”
But on our 2022 digital cover, Lizzo hit back. “I like smoothing out the dimples on my butt or the lumps on my thighs or the fat on my back or my stretch marks,” she told ESSENCE. However, cellulite is often seen as a problem to get rid of. However, “it’s very difficult to treat,” says Dr. Rosemarie Ingleton, a dermatologist and medical director at Ingleton Dermatology. From caffeine cream to injectables, “no current treatment will remove it one hundred percent.”
But among those available, research shows that laser therapy, subincision, and vacuum suction make it better results for cellulite removal. It’s worth noting, however, that it takes several sessions to see results. “Many of these treatments produce some improvement in the short term,” adds Dr. Steven Williams, certified surgeon and President of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. “The challenge is that long-term results can be more variable.”
Below, Dr. Ingleton and Dr. Williams look at the latest professional cellulite reduction treatments – and the results you can expect.
What causes cellulite?
“It’s caused by normal anatomical connections between the skin and the underlying tissue,” says Dr. Williams. “It’s more common as we get older and if we have a few extra pounds,” noting that skin laxity and weight can increase its visibility. As for location, “It looks the same no matter where it occurs on the body,” adds Dr. Ingleton, comparing the texture to an orange peel.
Cellfina™ Subsection
“Newer minimally invasive techniques involve ‘undercutting,’ or cutting the connections of the skin to the deeper tissue,” says Dr. Williams. “[Cellfina] it involves inserting a needle into the skin to break up the hard bands that cause cellulite,” adds Dr Ingleton. In a study of 232 patients, the research found that 99% of people were satisfied with the results, which last up to two years or more.
The treatment is FDA approved and usually takes less than an hour to target, numb and treat cellulite, along with a 24-hour downtime. Dr. Williams notes that “the challenge with this technique is that cutting these strips usually results in a small amount of scar tissue forming where the tape is,” he says, replicating the cause of cellulite.
Mechanical suction
Known as enterology, mechanical suction is a “deep massage that also lifts the skin into a vacuum,” says Dr. Ingleton. This vacuum-assisted technique stimulates the skin and adipose tissue to release fat and increase circulation. You may also have heard of a lymphatic drainage massage that can help remove excess fluid stored in cellulite and, like other dermology techniques, can tighten the skin. A limited study shows that this treatment worked less cellulite in patients up to three years, if not longer.
Cellulaze™ laser
From acne to stretch marks and hair removal, laser treatments are a proven solution to many of our beauty concerns.”[Cellulaze is used] to break up the tight fibrous bands using laser energy,” says Dr Ingleton. According to the AADCellulaze is a minimally invasive treatment that can significantly thicken skin that cellulite tends to thin. Although more research is needed, results may last six months or longer, but the dimple usually returns.
Topical creams containing caffeine or 0.3% retinol
“Previous treatments revolved around hydrating the skin to improve elasticity,” says Dr. Williams. But like most techniques, “these treatments are usually temporary.” Topical creams containing caffeine they dehydrate the cells making cellulite less visible. While the popular active, retinol, can thicken the skin, but consistent use for at least six months is required.
Mesotherapy
Injectables widely used to target facial wrinkles and folds are a skin care buzzword. In the context of cellulite, “sometimes injecting a small amount of fat can reduce the scar tissue that can cause cellulite to come back,” says Dr. Williams. “But this is usually only effective on larger, deeper areas of cellulite.” According to the NIH, mesotherapy is a rejuvenation technique that injects caffeine, hormones, enzymes and other solutions into the body to reduce sagging. But the point remains. “The effectiveness of most treatments is unpredictable and improvements in the appearance of cellulite are short-lived,” reports a NIH Report 2023.
Arguably, instead of looking in the mirror judging your skin by your orange peel, the best thing you can do is make like Lizzo and appreciate every curve and texture you (and 90% of other women) have.
