Cellulite Treatment Myths

There are a lot of generalities assigned to cellulite. Because of this, a number of myths have been circulated about this problem. Some may have a grain of truth, while others are completely false. So, let's examine what those myths are and what exactly is the truth regarding cellulite.

Myth #1 - Cellulite is just ugly fat

Cellulite is indeed a form of fat, but everyone has fat. A little bit of fat is good and necessary. However, cellulite is actually malformed fat that gets trapped under the skin and is highly resistant to diet or exercise. Even thin people who may be genetically predisposed to get cellulite can develop it while on a healthy diet and exercise regimen.

Myth #2 - Only obese people have cellulite

Obese people may have worse cellulite, but there are also plenty of thin people who have cellulite as well. As a matter of fact, women who starve themselves with fad diets trying to lose weight can develop cellulite. This is because the body senses that proper nutrition is not forthcoming and quickly begins to store up existing fat in preparation for the nutritional deprivation.

Myth #3 - Cellulite only appears on the thighs and buttocks.

While cellulite is most common in these areas, it can also occur on the upper arms, stomach, and the back of the neck. This usually only occurs primarily in truly overweight individuals.

Myth #4 - Only old people or women get cellulite.

Cellulite does indeed worsen with age because as we age our skin loses elasticity. However, some girls have developed cellulite as young as age 14! If left untreated, it will continue to get worse as the individual gets older. Since cellulite can be hereditary, if you are genetically predisposed to have cellulite, the chance is greater that you will develop it at a younger age. While the majority of women do have some cellulite, men are not completely immune. Men with a naturally lower androgen hormone level have a tendency to develop cellulite as well.

Myth #5 - The only way to get rid of cellulite is to have plastic surgery.

Diet and exercise can help improve and reduce existing cellulite. There are also several cellulite creams that can be an effective treatment as well. There is no reason that you need to go under the knife to have smooth, firm skin. Even people who have had liposuction can still get cellulite in the near future. Sometimes it can even make cellulite worse. The results of plastic surgery are not necessarily permanent. A healthy lifestyle is a far more permanent solution.

As we stated before, many of these myths do have a grain of truth to them. For example, cellulite usually does occur in women and the older you get the worse it becomes. However, it is important to remember that there are exceptions to every rule. Don't think that because you are young, you are safe. A healthy lifestyle is the best prevention for cellulite.