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Cellulite

Cellulite products may diminish the appearance of dimples, but they won’t get rid of them

What is it?
Cellulite is a term used to describe the dimpled appearance of skin caused by body fat deposits that lurk just below the surface. It’s most common on the legs, hips, buttocks and abdominal areas of women (okay, and some men).

You might know it by another name, as it’s got a pretty colorful list of synonyms: cottage cheese skin, hail damage, the mattress phenomenon, pin-cushion skin, orange peel syndrome, cookie thighs.

What causes it?
The causes of cellulite are pretty elusive. Experts have pinned down hormonal factors, diet, genetics, and lifestyle factors as some of the leading contenders. Smokers, carbohydrate lovers, tight elastic clothing enthusiasts and those who sit or stand for a long period of time may be more prone to cellulite.

It poses no real threat to your physical health, but can cause some serious self-image issues.

Can you get rid of it?
Though there are several kinds of treatments offered to reduce the appearance of cellulite, no products have been supported by medical or scientific literature — in other words, there is no solid evidence to prove that these methods have any real effect.

A healthy diet and daily exercise regimen are generally recommended as preventative measures.

Photo Credits: Cover – Kriss Szkurlatowski; Inside Image – Flickr User ATIS547