If you are bothered by how cellulite makes your skin look, you are not alone. According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, an estimated 85 to 90% of adult women have some form of cellulite, typically on the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks.
This is why millions of people share the same desire to get rid of or diminish the orange peel appearance of their skin and get the contour right.
Fortunately, many treatments can help you with your goals. These breakthroughs are effective thanks to the tireless work of dermatologists who have created many options to treat unsightly cellulite. So, we’re going to explore the best cosmetic treatments for cellulite.
But first, let’s know the basics.
Contents
What causes cellulite?
Exactly why cellulite occurs is not known, but it has been linked to the skin’s structure and fat cells. Cellulite appears as dimpled or lumpy skin, most commonly affecting the buttock and thigh areas. Compared to men, women are more likely to have cellulite due to differences in fat distribution and collagen production.
Cellulite forms when fat cells become trapped in fibrous bands beneath the skin. These bands connect the skin to the underlying connective tissue. As they tighten, they can cause the dimpling effect associated with cellulite.
Obviously, there’s no surefire way to prevent or reduce cellulite, but regular exercise, medical treatments, and massage may help to improve circulation and reduce its appearance.
Cellulite Home Remedies: Why Don’t They Work?
These home remedies may not work because they do not address the underlying cause of cellulite, which is a build-up of fat cells under the skin. Even if a home remedy can temporarily make your cellulite look less prominent, the fat cells will eventually return.
Another reason is that they do not provide lasting results. Many home remedies only temporarily relieve cellulite, and the results are often short-lived. Even if a home remedy does provide some degree of smoothing, the effects are usually only temporary.
To truly remove cellulite and achieve smooth, evenly-toned skin, it is necessary to find a treatment that targets the underlying causes of cellulite. Many effective treatments available can help reduce the appearance of cellulite and achieve long-lasting results.
Who is a good candidate for cellulite reduction?
You may benefit from this minimally invasive treatment if you’re tired of the look of cellulite on your body. There are also other factors:
- The severity of your cellulite. If you have a severe dimpled look on your skin and want to smoothen it, then you are likely a good candidate.
- You are in good physical health and have realistic expectations for the treatment results, which means the cellulite won’t vanish completely, but your skin will look smoother.
- Your willingness to commit to a treatment plan is also important. If you are willing to follow the instructions of your doctor or therapist and stick with the treatment plan, then you are likely to see better results.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, have diabetes or circulatory problems or have a history of blood clots, this treatment is not for you.
What are the Cosmetic Treatments for Cellulite?
Acoustic Wave Therapy
Cellulite is caused by fibrous tissue pulling the skin in certain areas, giving it an uneven look. Acoustic wave therapy works by disrupting the fibers beneath your skin that have hardened and produce this rough look. By doing so, the underlying skin becomes thicker, and new collagen is produced, reducing the lumpiness of the skin. This is a painless procedure; the cellulite is significantly reduced after four to five sessions. Should cellulite reappear, you can repeat the treatment twice per year.
Laser Treatments
Different types of laser treatments have shown success when it comes to eliminating cellulite. Cellulaze® is a minimally-invasive treatment that works by having a tiny laser fiber inserted beneath the skin. Laser energy loosens up the tough bands beneath the skin that give cellulite its characteristic look. The laser can also thicken skin, an added benefit since cellulite tends to form more easily on thinner skin.
Non-laser treatments
There are a number of energy-based cellulite reduction treatments on the market that don’t involve lasers.
These devices use radiofrequency (RF), ultrasound, infrared light, suction, or radial pulses to generate heat. The heat then helps to stimulate collagen production and break down fat cells, which can reduce the appearance of cellulite. Here are the ones approved by FDA:
- ThermiSmooth® Body (Radiofrequency)
- Venus Freeze® (Radiofrequency and pulsed electromagnetic fields)
- VelaShape® (Radiofrequency and infrared light)
- Zimmer Z Wave (radial pulse therapy)
As a bonus, some of these treatments may also help with mild fat reduction.
Cellfina
This FDA-cleared medical procedure involves a small needle to break up the connective tissue that causes the effect of cellulite by a trained dermatologist. The tough fibrous bands beneath the skin that cause cellulite are broken, and less cellulite is visible.
It involves using a local anesthetic to numb the area and can be performed in under an hour. It requires little downtime, and results are visible soon after a few days.
Cellfina is less invasive than other procedures and has a shorter recovery time. However, some reported side effects include pain, mild bruising, and swelling.
A study has shown that Cellfina can last up to two years, making it a popular choice for long-lasting results. After that time, treatment can be repeated.
Injectable treatments
The injectable called QWO® is an FDA-approved treatment that can help you get rid of cellulite without plastic surgery. The treatment is injected into the treatment area, which is typically the buttocks. The injections help to tighten the skin and improve the appearance of cellulite. It’s one of the simplest and best cellulite treatments, which is why cosmetic dermatologists and plastic surgeons recommend it.
The number of treatments depends upon treatment area and size, so it’s best to establish a treatment plan. It requires no downtime, and the side effects like bruising are temporary.
Vacuum-Assisted Precise Tissue Release
This procedure involves your dermatologist treating the area that has cellulite with a device that contains small blades that cut through the tough bands under the skin. Once these bands are cut, the tissue moves upward, filling out dimples and eliminating them. A study has shown that it is an effective treatment of cellulite for at least three years. However, some patients have reported that the results last even longer.
Carboxytherapy
In this treatment called Carboxytherapy, Carbon dioxide gas is inserted just beneath the skin. Slight discomfort may occur during the insertion of the gas, as well as temporary bruising. You may need 8 to 10 treatments to achieve results.
Creams and Lotions
A number of topical treatments like cellulite creams and lotions claim to work in improving cellulite. If this is your preferred option, look for creams that contain caffeine since this has been shown to dehydrate skin and make cellulite less obvious. Another effective cream is one that contains 0.3% retinol, which can help thicken skin. Creams or lotions must be applied every day for long periods until you see a difference.
Endermologie®
Beauty clinics and spas offer this treatment, which uses a device that provides a deep massage that also lifts the skin with a vacuum-like tool. The device has been approved by the FDA. Several 45-minute sessions may be required to achieve results.
Most-Asked Questions about Cosmetic Cellulite Treatments
How Should I Get Ready for the Treatment?
Preparation is essential. Before starting the treatment, consult your doctor or dermatologist. If they provide you with instructions, follow them carefully. Pre-treatment instructions may include avoiding sun exposure or certain medications. Once you have everything ready, relax and enjoy your cellulite-free results!
What to Expect During the Treatment?
Cellulite treatment usually involves a series of sessions, and the number of sessions needed will depend on the severity of your cellulite. During each session, a special device will be used to deliver focused waves of energy where cellulite is present. This energy will help break down the fatty deposits and smooth the skin.
During the treatment, you may feel slight discomfort, but this should quickly subside. Most people notice a difference in their cellulite after just a few sessions. However, you may need additional sessions to achieve optimal results.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Your condition’s severity will determine how many treatments you need. Many people require multiple treatments, while others may only need a few treatments. It also depends on the recommendations of your cosmetic surgeon. In most cases, you will need at least three cellulite treatments to see significant results. However, some people may require several treatments to achieve their desired results.
When Will I See Noticeable Changes in My Cellulite?
Many factors contribute to this, including the type of treatment you are receiving, the number of sessions, and your natural body composition. However, most people see at least some improvement in the appearance of their cellulite after completing a treatment plan. This can include smoother, more even skin and a reduction in the overall appearance of dimpled skin. The best results may require multiple treatment sessions.
The Future of Cosmetic Cellulite Treatments
Skin experts are always on the quest to find new, improved ways of treating cellulite on the buttocks and other parts of the body where it commonly forms.
There are treatments that work by breaking up the bands that cause cellulite, improving blood flow and lymphatic drainage, and tightening and toning the skin.
As the prevalence of cellulite increases, so does the demand for effective treatments. Although many temporary fixes are available, such as topical creams and massage, these solutions are not long-lasting. The future of cellulite treatment lies in more permanent solutions, such as laser therapy and subcision.
Women have been dealing with cellulite for years, but cellulite and tightening treatments are improving all the time. Treatment is performed by certified professionals who are constantly improving their techniques.
As the above-mentioned and other new treatments continue to develop, the future of cellulite therapy will only improve. With more effective and longer-lasting treatments available, expected in the coming years, you can bid adieu to cellulite for good. It’s important to consult with a professional to see whether cellulite treatment is right for you and to learn about what kind of results you can expect.
The takeaway
Cellulite is not a medical condition, but it can be a source of frustration and insecurity for many people. These best treatments for cellulite can help you look more toned and feel more confident.
Some treatments have been approved by the FDA and while they may not completely eliminate cellulite, they can often reduce its appearance significantly.
You can get many treatments today, especially at a beauty clinic in Miami that can help you with your goals. Your dermatologists or beauty clinician may recommend the treatment option that’s best for you.
