Anti Cellulite Creams And Mesotherapy

Cellulite is the word given to describe the condition in men and women wherein certain parts of the skin of the limbs, abdominal and pelvic region takes on a dimpled appearance after puberty. The term first came into use in the 1920s, and by the late 1960s it began to be commonly used in English language publications. One of the earliest reference appeared in Vogue magazine, where it was likened to a “swift migrating fish…(that) has suddenly crossed the Atlantic.”

Occurrence

Almost all females of post-pubescent age show signs of cellulite to some degree. Many suspect that the condition is hormonally related. It rarely occurs in males, although it does happen. Most males who are afflicted commonly have androgen-deficient conditions such as hypogonadism, Klinefelter's syndrome, post-castration states or are undergoing estrogen therapy in the treatment of prostate cancer. As the androgen in the body is depleted, the condition generally worsens in these males.
Contrary to popular belief, cellulite has nothing to do with being overweight. In fact, people of average weight, as well as those who are underweight also get cellulite.

Causes

Little is known about the causes of cellulite, and several metabolic and physiological changes have been traced to the onset of cellulite or contribute to the condition. Some of these changes are a water metabolism disorders, hyperpolymerization of connective tissue in an abnormal manner, and chronic venous insufficiency.

Hormonal factors

Hormones are thought to play a large role in the development of cellulite. In this regard, estrogen seems to be the most important hormone, causing and worsening cellulite. Other hormones that may also play a role include catecholamines adrenaline, insulin, noradrenaline, prolactin, and thyroid hormones.

Predisposing factors

For cellulite to develop, several genetic factors have to be present. Race, gender, biotype, allele (which is a hormone receptor that determines receptor number as well as sensitivity), subcutaneous fat distribution, and a predisposition to circulatory insufficiency are all contributing factors to cellulite.

Diet

Diet is also known to affect cellulite development and amount. Fat in excessive amounts, salt, carbohydrates, alcohol and a fiber deficiency can all be contributing factors to increased cellulite.

Lifestyle

Some lifestyle factors have also been linked to the increase of cellulite. These are: smoking, little or no exercise, tight clothing, high-heeled footwear, and remaining in a single sitting or standing position for long periods of time. A stressful lifestyle also causes an increase in catecholamine hormones.

Classification

Grade 1
There are no apparent clinical symptoms, although histopathology will show underlying anatomical changes.

Grade 2
The skin takes on a noticeable pallor, with decreased temperature, and less elasticity after being stretched or compressed. The typical “orange peel” is not noticeable. Histopathology will again show anatomical changes.

Grade 3
“Orange peel” skin roughness is now visible at rest. Considered the “canonical” grade of cellulite, thin granulations in the deeper levels of the skin can now be distinguished by palpitation. All the symptoms of Grade 2 condition are apparent, and anatomical changes are detected by histopathology.

Grade 4
All the symptoms of Grade 3 stage are present, and there are more noticeable lumps present, which may be painful and stick to deep structures in the skin. The skin dimpling effect is far more noticeable and may take on a wavy appearance. Histopathology again detects additional changes.

Therapy

Many therapeutic methods have been tried in the hopes of curing cellulite. At present, no known therapies have actually been proven to work in any published reports in scientific literature.
It seems that the most benefits can be gained by controlling lifestyle factors. Stress and anxiety management have also been shown to be beneficial.

Physical and mechanical methods

Some of the methods that have been tried over the years are: ultrasound, thremotherapy, Iontophoresis, pressotherapy, which is pneumatic massaging following circulation direction), lymphatic drainage or a massage stimulating lymphatic flow, electrolipophoresis or application of a low frequency electric current.

Pharmacological agents

Drugs that have been known to act on fatty tissue have also been tested as cellulite control agents. Some of these drugs act on fatty tissue as well as connective tissue and microcirculation. They are typically used systemically, topically, or transdermally.
Some of these drugs are methyxanthines such as theophylline, theobromine, aminophylline, and caffeine, which function as phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and pentoxifylline, which helps micro-circulation; adrenergic beta-agonists such as adrenaline and isoproterenol; adrenergic alpha-agonists such as piperoxan, yohimbine, dihydroergotamine and phentolamine; the amino acid l-carnitine and methyIxanthine enhancers Coenzyme A; drugs which affect connective tissue such as Asiatic centella and sillicium; and microcirculation drugs such as ginkgo biloba, Indian chestnut, and rutin.
These drugs are typically given orally, as ointments, and by injection.
None of these drugs have been confirmed in scientific journals to produce a significant effect.

Cosmetic concern

Although harmless, the appearance of cellulite causes a great degree of concern for many people. While many cosmetic remedies have been released over the years, none of them have been approved as being able to reduce cellulite effectively.
A combination of light, mechanical, radio frequency and heat energy has been used by Syneron in the treatment of cellulite. The company is the first cosmetic laser manufacturer to receive FDA approval for the process, which is called ELOS. The company claims that only a few applications of the product will ensure success.
Radio frequency is also used by the cosmetic industry to heat the skin in a cosmetic procedure that heats the fat tissue under the skin. The process increases collagen in the treated area and helps the skin take on a younger look and feel.
Mesotherapy and Endermologie have also been used, but results have thus far been inconclusive. These methods have been approved by the FDA, although their results are temporary and their effectiveness is not always constant. Furthermore, these methods require follow-up procedures in order to ensure continued low cellulite levels.
Liposuction is a process wherein fat is extracted from under the skin, and it is not generally considered effective for cellulite reduction and may in fact make the condition worse. Dieting also does not normally lessen the dimpled look, although dieting and exercise can reduce the fat in the distorted cells considerably, lessening their effect on the dimpling.

Feminist criticism

Many feminists have stated that the perception of cellulite as an undesirable condition is harmful to women. They feel that this is a natural condition in virtually all women of post pubescent age, and that “treating” the condition would be like “treating” normal body developments such as pubic hair or breasts. They further feel that it is just another manifestation of unfair expectations of wanting women to conform to unrealistic pre-pubescent childish appearances.