Cellulite is the name for bundles of fat stored between the muscle and skin. Muscle is attached to the skin through bands of fibrous connective tissue. Under the influence of time, gravity and hormones, the stored fat pushes against the connective tissue, compressing the skin and causing the appearance of dimples or puckers in the overlying skin. Cellulite is most visible on the thighs, stomach and buttocks, but can also appear under the arms and in the inner knee, hips and lower stomach.

There is no cure for cellulite, but several treatments are offered. Cellulite creams contain a variety of ingredients that claim to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Researchers say creams can smooth out the skin, but they don't really eliminate cellulite and must be used repeatedly to maintain their effect. In addition, some cellulite creams contain ingredients that can cause an allergic reaction in susceptible people.

Liposuction is sometimes performed to remove areas of excess fat from the body. However, the procedure doesn't reach subcutaneous fat (where cellulite exists) because of potential complications, like bleeding, swelling and scarring. In some cases, removal of large areas of underlying fat can worsen the appearance of cellulite.

Mechanical massage (endermologie) uses a set of rollers and a low-pressure vacuum. The technique reportedly reduces the appearance of cellulite by increasing circulation and lymph drainage and stretching the underlying connective tissue.

The appearance of cellulite sometimes worsens with weight gain. So some people advocate diet and weight loss as a method to reduce cellulite. However, cellulite can be found in women who eat a low-fat diet and maintain normal weight. So any changes in the diet may have no effect on cellulite. Exercise can help tone the body and may reduce the appearance of cellulite in some women, however, the results vary from one person to another.

LaserDermology
Investigators have developed another treatment for cellulite, called Tri-Active™ LaserDermology(sm). The device, manufactured by Cynosure, Inc., combines three modes of action: laser, mechanical massage and cooling. When aimed at an area of cellulite, the low-level laser beams warm the tissues and stimulate circulation in the very tiny vessels. At the same time, mechanical massage and suction stimulates the subcutaneous tissue. In addition, localized cooling smoothes the skin.

After six to seven LaserDermology treatments, therapists say patients will see a noticeable reduction in the appearance of cellulite. However, the treatments are not a cure and maintenance sessions (usually once every five to six weeks) are needed to maintain the results. Cost of the treatment varies around the country, but average about $100/session.

Source: Medstar