Cellulite, as we're talking about it, is a nightmare for nearly 90% of women. Most of us are familiar with its symptoms – unsightly skin, primarily on the stomach, buttocks, and thighs, resulting from abnormally distributed fat tissue. Unfortunately, it can affect anyone, regardless of age, lifestyle, or weight. It's a nightmare, especially in the summer, but that doesn't mean it's any easier to accept in the winter. It simply exists, and it's up to us how we combat it. The more we talk about it, the more myths arise. So, what's true and what's false?
The problem is only for the obese and only for the mature – MYTH
Cellulite develops when there are changes in adipose tissue. Even the slimmest among us, who at first glance don't have a single gram of fat, have adipose tissue. That's just how we are built, and it's a fact. Therefore, it's a myth that cellulite only affects overweight people. Cellulite is linked to hormonal changes. Therefore, both teenagers and mature or older women are equally susceptible to developing orange peel skin.
Cellulite can be fought once and for all – MYTH
Unfortunately, this is a sad truth, as orange peel skin is such a persistent problem that it's extremely difficult to combat effectively. Fortunately, there's light at the end of the tunnel! A proper diet, a healthy lifestyle, and exercise, along with the use of special cosmetics or treatments, can significantly reduce or even completely eliminate cellulite. However, returning to old habits will quickly result in the problem returning. Therefore, there's no single miracle method that will eliminate orange peel skin once and for all. Even professional treatments require regular treatments to prevent the problem from returning.
Orange peels always look the same – MYTH
Cellulite can appear in three forms: firm, flaccid, and edematous. The former primarily affects young women and is visible when the skin is pinched. Flaccid cellulite primarily affects women over the age of forty. Its characteristic symptoms include swelling and tenderness in the legs. The most severe form of orange peel syndrome is the edematous variety. It is accompanied by leg pain, swelling, and pale skin, which also becomes very thin.
Cosmetics, that's it! – MYTH
Drugstore shelves, and even pharmacies, are brimming with products rich in caffeine, aminophylline, or theophylline, designed to combat cellulite. Unfortunately, there's no evidence that the active ingredients in these products can penetrate the skin and locally burn fat. Regular use will certainly improve skin elasticity and firmness. However, don't place too much hope in these products.
Exercise helps fight cellulite – FACT
Sport is good for everything, and this is no exception. Regular exercise significantly improves the condition of our skin, protecting it from the worsening of cellulite and helping to smooth out existing ones. However, running enthusiasts should remember to supplement their training with strength training.
Cellulite and stress go hand in hand – FACT
Unfortunately, it's true. Stress generally doesn't help and isn't a good companion. This time, the culprit is cortisol – the stress hormone. It's responsible for constricting blood vessels, which in turn leads to increased fat storage. Furthermore, the skin becomes less elastic. Besides these raging hormones, unfortunately, we often don't pay attention to what we eat in stressful situations. As a result, we grab high-carbohydrate foods on the run, which only adds to our weight.
Cellulite can be inherited – FACT
If your mother or grandmother struggled with this problem, it's unfortunately very likely that you will too. This happens because we inherit the number of adipocytes – cells that synthesize and store simple fats. The more fat cells, the greater the risk of developing cellulite.
If you're struggling with orange peel skin, don't panic. As you already know, it certainly won't help. Cellulite is a common condition. The most important thing is to exercise common sense and take care of your body, not forgetting your soul. Feeling good and being at peace with yourself is half the battle.
