Does Cellulite Cream Really Work?

Some Answers

If you've got cellulite, you're not alone. Many women suffer from this condition, which appears as dimpled fat on areas like the thighs, hips and buttocks. Even if you're thin and in good shape, you can still have cellulite. Cellulite is formed when fat is stored in pockets under fibrous connective strands called septae. The fat expands while the septae becomes stretched. Eventually, this causes the cottage cheese appearance that is associated with cellulite. Because cellulite is such a universal problem, there is no shortage of treatment options available. You might be considering cellulite cream but wondering if it actually works.

The answer you receive will depend on who you ask. Some people swear that these various creams and topical treatments actually reduce the appearance and texture of their cellulite. It's important to understand that no topically applied product can penetrate enough layers of skin to actually eliminate cellulite. What many of these products can do is make the skin look better by providing a diuretic effect. Excess fluid is flushed away, leading to a tighter, smoother appearance.

Not all creams provide this diuretic effect, however. Others, such as those containing DMAE, work by combining with amino acids and stimulating the muscles, leading to the appearance of smoother skin. Another product that is sometimes used for the reduction of cellulite is Retin-A. Retin-A must be prescribed by a doctor or dermatologist and is thought to thicken the skin, which makes the cellulite less apparent.

Other topical treatments for cellulite are often administered as part of a more involved procedure such as a professional body wrap or sauna session. Both the wrap and the sauna work to raise the body's core temperature, which increases the metabolism and helps the body burn fat more efficiently. During and/or after these types of treatments, creams or gels are often used to enhance results.

Cellulite cream is not a magic fix for cellulite. However, some of these creams might improve the appearance of the skin and help camouflage the look of dimpled, lumpy fat. If you want to try a topical product for yourself, consider using it in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise plan. Also, be patient. You will need to use any product for at least six to eight weeks before you evaluate whether or not it is working for you.

Copyright 2007 Frances Coleman - All Rights Reserved