Cellulite – we all know what it is. Indeed over 90 per cent of women suffer from cellulite and there are numerous treatments that claim to be able to deal with it. But which one works?
Cellulite occurs almost wholly in women because women’s fat cells are present in pockets beneath the skin and over time these pockets bulge and press against the skin’s surface, causing the ‘orange peel’ look we all dread. Although a good diet and exercise can help, particularly if undertaken regularly from an early age, it doesn’t necessarily prevent it as shown by all those slim celebs spotted suffering from cellulite.
Creams and gels; readily available at any department store but they have not been clinically proven to have a long-lasting and effective reduction of cellulite.
Non-invasive beauty treatments; this refers to treatments offered at a non-medical professional level. These are totally non-invasive and include body wrapping (various substances are applied to the skin before the body is covered for a prescribed length of time) and massage. Again there is not much clinical data to back up the success of these treatments and any effect is usually temporary.
Endemologie; very popular in France, this treatment uses a pair of motorised rollers combined with suction to smooth cellulite, reshape your figure and firm your skin.
Carboxytherapy; Micro injections of carbon dioxide are placed just beneath the surface of the skin. The carbon dioxide increases blood flow, stimulates collagen production and it is also suggested that the pressure of the gas has a direct mechanical action which helps the appearance of the skin.
Mesotherapy; a combination of enzymes, herbs and vitamins is injected into the mesoderm or middle layer of skin. Eporex mesotherapy is a no-needle version of traditional mesotherapy.
Radiofrequency treatments; this includes systems such as Accent, Thermage, VelaSmooth and VelaShape. Radio waves are sent deep down into the layers of your skin and cause a controlled heating action that stimulates the production of collagen. The skin fibres are immediate strengthened and circulation is boosted, so there are instantaneous results that then continue to improve.
VelaSmooth and VelaShape utilises four systems, including radiofrequency energy to gain the best result.
Cellulaze is a brand new cellulite treatment which is the world's first surgical treatment. As cellulite is caused by fat getting trapped between the fibrous bands that connect the skin's tissues, Cellulaze works by cutting through these bands to release them and even out the skin's surface using lasers. It also melts excess fat lying beneath the epidermis and smooths the top layer of the skin.
Cellulite: Am I suitable?
For the completely non-invasive cellulite treatments there are no restrictions but the more invasive cellulite procedures do have some contraindications. Your practitioner will advise you on these. Click on the individual cellulite procedures for more information.
Reviews
