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WHAT'S NEW
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Cellulite -- 7 myths and truths
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Do cellulite treatments work? Can you reduce cellulite or remove it and say goodbye to it for good? Separate fact from fiction about that dimpled skin on so many women's butts and thighs.
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By Sarah Snowdon
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4. Fact or fiction: Only plus-size women get cellulite
Fiction: Cellulite it is often associated with problems relating to obesity. "The biggest myth is that people who are really thin don't have cellulite," says Dr. Kellett. "I've seen women in my practice who are in top physical form and they still have cellulite!"
Dr. Cohen agrees that even if you're at an ideal weight, you can still have cellulite. "Cellulite does not distinguish between thin or overweight people. It's more a function of how fat is distributed throughout the body," says Dr. Kellett.
5. Fact or fiction: Creams with natural products can reduce the appearance of cellulite
Fact: Some natural creams are proven to be more effective than others. "Topical vitamin A acid derivatives such as retinol, tretinoin, adapaline and tazarotene have been shown to have a beneficial effect on the appearance of cellulite," says Dr. Sapijaszko. "These creams work by increasing the collagen content, thereby firming the skin."
Retinol refines the top layer of the skin and helps with fine lines but it won't penetrate the fat layer necessary to treat cellulite. There is no lack of products on the market that claim to cure cellulite but consumers should be discerning.
"Often, those who are conducting the research have a vested interest in the product," says Dr. Sapijaszko. "There is a need for more objective data with sustained results." Speak with a professional about your options.
6. Fact or fiction: Cellulite can be "cured" by plastic surgery and other noninvasive procedures
Fact and fiction: Plastic surgery is seemingly the closest option to a cure for cellulite, yet it has not been proven effective by any objective source. Liposuction works as a healing mechanism; as the skin swells and gets firmer, the appearance of cellulite diminishes.
Some studies have shown that subcision -- whereby a needle is inserted under the skin to detach the fibrous bonds that cause cellulite -- can be beneficial in treating cellulite.
Dr. Cohen says that there have been some positive results from endermology, a noninvasive process using massage, rolling and manipulation of the tissue, causing swelling or edema and temporarily masking the appearance of cellulite.
UltraShape, a new noninvasive way to treat cellulite, has also shown dramatic results. Soon to be approved by Health Canada, UltraShape liquefies fat through a focal ultrasound.
Most of these procedures are temporary and do not offer a long-term solution to cellulite.
7. Fact or fiction: Cellulite is genetic
Fact: While eating right, exercising and using the right products can help to a certain degree, genetics, hormones and gender play a central role in the formation of cellulite. According to Dr. Sapijaszko, women in the same family have similar degrees of cellulite. "Much of what causes cellulite is not within our control. There is a definite genetic component involved," says Dr. Cohen.
Have you found a solution to your cellulite woes? Tell us your tricks for dealing with that orange-peel skin in our forums.
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