The cellulite struggle happens to every woman and sometimes men may have cellulite too. The exact cause of cellulite has not yet been determined by experts. "There are some theories about possible hormonal effects," said Dr. Bruze Katz, the spokesperson for the American Academy of Dermatology, according to U.S. News, but the desire to get rid of it is common among women.
Cellulite is basically fat under the skin, according to dermatologist Dr. Sam Bunting, via Get The Gloss. "It's compounded by skin thinning which affects the dermis. Men don't get it because their 'container' holds the fat in more tightly. It is not due to obesity and it is not due to collections of toxins or fluid - it's normal fat," said Bunting.
Getting rid of cellulite isn't always easy with proper exercise and right diet alone, as sometimes, genetics play a part, according to CNN. Topical cellulite creams help keep the skin firm and moisturized, so that collagen production is improved, but they do not provide long-term results as the creams cannot penetrate deep tissues.
The most effective cellulite treatments are those "designed at severing or lessening the thickness of the septal bands," said Dr. Lisa Donofrio, a dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon from New York, according to U.S. News. These treatments include the following:
Endermologie. This treatment makes use of a machine that breaks down fat cells by massaging and sucking the skin's surface, according to Real Self. Regular maintenance is required for this procedure to bear significant results.
Subcision. This procedure is rather invasive and requires local anesthesia. It works to remove the dimples on the skin but it cannot even out the layers or tighten them. Despite its chances of success, some patients may develop pain and bruises after the procedure, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Falling under subcision are two types of recently developed procedures:
Cellulaze. Deep skin tissues and fibrous bands are treated by laser with this type of procedure and it is a long-lasting fix approved by the FDA, according to The New York Times. However, there are some side-effects. "It is fairly significant to have three months of prolonged discomfort, bruising, swelling and numbness," said Dr. Molly Wanner.
Cellfina. This is another laser treatment that requires snipping the clusters of fat under the skin. There is no bleeding and minimal bruising with this procedure, according to Allure, but its results are only short-term (lasting about a year).
Costs for these procedures are between $900 to $5,000.
