Q&A with Dr. Flickstein on Fighting Cellulite

If there’s one thing that doesn’t discriminate – it’s cellulite. Most of us have it, and if you don’t, consider yourself lucky. We know that cellulite is hard to love, and with bikini season in full swing, we’re sharing insider tips from FIT Bodywrap® Clinical Director Dr. Aaron M. Flickstein, D.C. Emeritus, on how to fight cellulite all year long.

Q: What is cellulite?

A: Cellulite is simply fat beneath the skin that tends to have a bumpy appearance because it pushes against connective tissue, causing the skin above it to pucker. As you will see below, the globules of fat have been rearranged from their normal locations which are far apart from one another and far from the skin’s surface on the normal side (left) to the abnormal presentation (right), where fat units are closer to each other as well as to the surface and enlarged.

Q: How does cellulite form?

A: How the rearrangement of fat is being orchestrated physically is beyond current medical research, as far as the mainstream sources I have reviewed are concerned. Past research shows cellulite begins when an accumulation of swollen fat cells develops.

Q: Who is prone to cellulite?

A: Those whose skin is a particular thickness and those with a slowed metabolism due to hormone shifts are prone to cellulite. Currently the causes of cellulite are not well understood. There are however several theories that have been put forth as explanations. Medical authorities seeing such aggregations in otherwise healthy women and men have concluded there is no associated health concern to be feared from having developed areas with cellulite. Most of the other suspects of causation, below, are self-induced issues to consider. Causes of cellulite (www.medicalnewstoday.com) Hormonal factors – Hormones likely play an important role in cellulite development. Many believe estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones, and prolactin are part of the cellulite production process. Genetics – Certain genes are required for cellulite development. Genes may predispose an individual to particular characteristics associated with cellulite, such as gender, race, slow metabolism, distribution of fat just underneath the skin, and circulatory insufficiency. Diet – People who eat too much fat, carbohydrates, or salt and too little fiber are likely to have greater amounts of cellulite. Lifestyle factors – Cellulite may be more prevalent in smokers, those who do not exercise, and those who sit or stand in one position for long periods of time. Clothing – Underwear with tight elastic across the buttocks (limiting blood flow) may contribute to the formation of cellulite. Other factors that influence how much cellulite you have and how visible it is, according to Web MD, include:

• Poor diet.
• Fad dieting.
• Slow metabolism.
• Dehydration.
• Total body fat.
• Thickness and color of your skin.

Q: Can your skincare routine affect your chances of getting cellulite?

A: From the above, it would appear that one’s skin care routine, unless somehow very toxic, is not likely to be a part of the cause of cellulite.

Q: What are things you can do to prevent cellulite?

A: Eating healthy, low fat foods such as fruits, vegetables and fiber can help one to avoid cellulite. Exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stressare recommended to prevent cellulite. To learn more about cellulite prevention, visit www.medicalnewstoday.com.

Q: How can infrared help with cellulite?

A: Some in the field believe that there are two additional factors to consider, each of which might be benefitted from repeated exposures to therapeutic doses of infrared. European Beauty Specialists confirm that infrared heat will greatly speed any anti-cellulite program. Infrared can help release toxins directly through your skin via your sweat glands. In addition, certain diets and cleanses might help sustain these changes. Additionally, infrared saturation of cellulite prompts rebuilding of collagen connective tissue by having a positive effect on the fibroblasts (connective tissue cells producing collagen fibers). Stronger collagen may help rearrange the globules away from each other and the skin’s surface, and help prevent further accumulation of cellulite. Cellulite happens to the best of us, and it’s important to be aware and mindful of its causes as well as treatments. Making a simple change in your daily habits or incorporating infrared sessions to your wellness routine can help with reducing potential cellulite build up. Soft, smooth, beautiful skin awaits you!

References 1) www.medicinenet.com. 2) www.medicinenet.com/cellulite 3) www.webmd 4) www.medicalnewstoday.com 5) Dr. Aaron M Flickstein, Fit Bodywrap® for NMS Complaints & Wellness, 2014.