There are many

cellulite

 remedies on the market, and even more active ingredients that make them up. It is very easy to get lost in the glut. You always hear people trying to sell you on their miracle cream with a magic new ingredient. How do you know what works and what doesn't? Is there a way to know how these ingredients are addressing your cellulite, if at all?

I have evaluated a wide array of cellulite treatments to determine their ability to alleviate the condition. I have broken them down into their component ingredients to clearly illustrate by what method these products address your cellulite and how effective they may be.

It is important to remember that until now very few if any remedies were more than simple topical treatments, which alone are not very effective in treating cellulite. You can buy many creams that contain vitamins, herbs, minerals and antioxidants. The good ones make the skin softer, smoother, healthier, and better able to repair itself. The better creams also contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and ingredients that stimulate blood flow. Cellulite-affected areas tend to be dehydrated and damaged, and need the extra benefits of moisture, protection and increased blood supply. By increasing the moisture of the affected area. The overall appearance of the cellulite can be temporarily reduced. When you look at cellulite, you are seeing not only the dimpling effect. You are also seeing the damaged, dry skin that accompanies it and even perpetuates the condition. If you can treat this dryness and damage, the appearance of the cellulite will be minimized. However, the damage itself, and the buoyant fat cells within the skin, will remain only partially treated. As you know, to completely address cellulite and stretch marks, we need to treat them from the inside as well as the outside.

Very often, topical creams dehydrate the affected area of wasted water over several weeks or months of use. The effect of this is that the thigh that houses the cellulite does, for a brief period of time, become smaller. By association, we feel that the condition has improved as well. Have you ever heard a sales pitch for a

cellulite treatment

 that begins, "Our product can solve cellulite by actually decreasing the diameter of your thigh by one inch!"? As you now know, the size of your body has no effect on the cellulite that is present. In actuality, while removing wasted water can temporarily decrease the size of the area treated and help to forestall future damage and exacerbation of dimpling, it does not actually repair and reverse cellulite. Also, any size that was lost will be replaced as soon as you drink water.

While topical cellulite remedies can be very beneficial, they have little effect if used alone. Creams cannot actually penetrate the dermis where much of the damage is. Creams and lotions generally reach only the epidermis, or top layer of skin. Many cellulite treatments are largely unsuccessful because they target only the external appearance of cellulite. They are unable to completely fight the damage where it lives. Now that you understand that the dimpling on the surface of the skin is merely a symptom of the underlying cause, you can see how banishing lumps and bumps requires deeper-acting treatments in addition to topical ones.

To really turn back the clock and reverse the damage, you must reach farther than just skin deep. That is where internal remedies and technology make all of the difference. I recommend going beyond simple topical remedies and utilizing science and nature's entire arsenal to combat cellulite and stretch marks. My concept of Technoceuticals includes a combination of effective topical remedies with technologically advanced treatments and formulas that can produce visible results. I incorporate nutritional supplements and a diet rich in foods that provide the essential elements to repair damage. This all-inclusive approach is the only truly effective method of treating and repairing cellulite and stretch marks.

Nine Ways of Treating Cellulite
   1. Strengthen blood vessels/increase blood flow
   2. Encourage the production of connective tissue
   3. Stimulate the production of collagen and elastin
   4. Attract water to the cells
   5. Repair cell membranes
   6. Reduce wasted water
   7. Prevent free-radical damage
   8. Reduce inflammation
   9. Promote exfoliation

Any ingredient that does not accomplish one of the nine goals cannot help your cellulite in any real way.

Treatments That Will Not Address Cellulite

While there are many products and ingredients on the market that help to prevent cellulite and repair the damage that is already present, there are also many that make strong claims but are not likely to have any effect on lumps and bumps in your skin because they do not employ one of the nine methods of treating cellulite. There are so many products on the market that it is difficult to know what will work and what likely will not. Before you spend time and money, it is always a good idea to be informed. Below you will find descriptions of a few popular products and treatments that are not likely to give you the benefit you are seeking as they do not employ any of the nine methods of treating cellulite.

Anti-Cellulite Apparel
Apparel products such as anti-cellulite compression hosiery are touted to create a micromassage when they are worn. Other versions include control-top panty hose that are said to reduce the appearance of cellulite while providing support to the stomach, hips and upper thighs. One of the newest products is a panty hose brand infused with microencapsulated grapefruit seed extract to target dimpling. There are also products that offer a prosthetic top to improve the body contour line, flatten the belly, and shape and tone the buttocks by giving them a push-up effect. While these products claim to treat cellulite, compression apparel can actually have the reverse effect by constricting circulation and causing irritation.

One unique cellulite product on the market is walking shoes that are made with a patented curved and layered sole said to lengthen the body, encourage upright posture, and use neglected muscle groups. These sneakers are touted to significantly reduce cellulite and varicose veins. Unfortunately, although these products potentially have a beneficial effect on overall appearance, they will not likely repair cellulite.

Cellulite Lift
Body-lifts are generally performed on women who have lost a significant amount of weight and have been left with loose pouches of excess skin. It is the most invasive technique to restore firm, youthful contours to the body. If you look at yourself naked in the mirror and pull up the saggy skin of your hips to stretch out your upper thighs and abdominal area, you can reshape the way your body looks. Body-lifts essentially do the same thing. Lower body-lifts target the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, waist and hips. However, body-lifts do nothing to improve the texture and quality of the skin. And while they do tighten the skin, they do not remove cellulite. The most significant drawback to this type of invasive surgery is that the scars can be extensive and the recovery is longer than most other cosmetic surgical procedures.

Cellulite Surgery
One of the problems with many of the more invasive treatments for cellulite reduction is that they tend to damage something else, especially the dermis. The only effective approach is in effect the reverse-making the dermis and vessels stronger and healthier.

Detox Diet
You often hear the claim that in order to get rid of cellulite, you have to go on a special diet to clear your body of cellulite-causing toxins. A toxin could be classified as any substance that creates irritating and/or harmful effects in the body, undermining health or stressing organ functions. Homeostasis occurs when body functions are in balance. This balance is disturbed when we take in more than we can utilize and eliminate. If our body is working well, it can handle our basic everyday exposure to toxins by neutralizing, transforming, or eliminating them. For example, many antioxidant nutrients may neutralize free-radical molecules. The liver helps transform many toxic substances into harmless agents, while the blood carries wastes to the kidneys; the liver also dumps wastes through the bile into the intestines to be eliminated. The best approach is to avoid putting toxins in your body in the first place by eating a healthy, clean, and pure diet along with appropriate supplements and lifestyle choices.

Laser Lipolisis
Laser lipolisis is a relatively new technique developed in Italy. It is performed with injections and involves the insertion of a fiber-optic laser through very small incisions that targets only the fat in the body. Amounts of 500 grams of fat can usually be absorbed and naturally excreted as waste by the body. Although laser lipolisis was not designed for high-volume applications, larger volumes of fat can be liquefied and suction-aspirated. As with liposuction, this procedure targets fat cells that are not the cause of cellulite.

Liposuction
While liposuction can change and improve your natural contours, a woman who is plagued by cellulite and undergoes liposuction to remove excess fat will be disappointed with the results, because the cellulite will still be there. Whereas liposuction can reduce fat deposits in areas resistant to diet and exercise, it is unable to affect the dermal fat that causes cellulite. In fact, in some cases it may actually make dimpling appear worse.

Muscle-Stimulation Systems
Muscle-toning systems, including ionithermie, utilize small electrical currents to provide stimulation in an attempt to tighten muscles. Treatments usually take about an hour and are done in a course of ten. There is no evidence that these systems are effective either for reducing cellulite or toning muscles. To increase firmness and tone muscles, strength training with weights, aerobics and yoga should be the first route to take. In either case, toning muscles may make your body feel better; however, it will have little or no effect on the visible appearance of cellulite.

A Guide to Treatments That Work

Now let's take a look at the nine ways of actually preventing and repairing cellulite. It is important to remember that each method works better in conjunction with the others than as a stand-alone treatment.

Strengthen Blood Vessels/ Increase Blood Flow
You may remember that the first stage of cellulite and stretch marks is invisible to the naked eye. It is the breakdown of blood vessels. Blood vessels are the paths by which all of the nutrients essential for strength and health reach the dermis and the surface skin. While the right nutrients are incredibly important, they do no good unless they can get through to the areas that need them. Without a steady conduit for antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, water, collagen and elastin builders, etc., the skin has no way to attain reinforcements. It eventually loses the battle to cellulite and stretch marks. Utilizing ingredients that promote strong blood vessels is the first step toward smooth skin. Strong, active blood vessels can be attained through certain internal nutrients, ingredients in topical creams, as well as mechanically through methods such as skin brushing.

Encourage the Production of Connective Tissue
The second approach to cellulite treatment is to stimulate the production of the matrix (GAGs) that make up connective tissue in your body. Providing your body with an ample supply of the essential nutrients that create and restore this matrix gives you the ability to form firm, defensive connective tissue. Having a strong dermis is essential in preventing and repairing cellulite and stretch marks. As you remember from Chapter 1, it is weakened or corrupted connective tissue in your skin, more specifically damaged dermis, that allows the fat cells that form cellulite to float to the surface and become bumps and dimples.

There is another very important reason to have strong, healthy connective tissue. The primary water reservoir for your entire body, and especially your skin, is the dermis. Whenever an organ in your body needs hydration, it can extract it from your dermis, which houses extra water. A strong dermis, with ample GAGs, can help keep all of your cells, from your liver to your skin, supplied with their ideal component of water, thereby functioning at their optimal level.

Three internal ingredients are necessary to form GAGs in your body. The first and most important is glucosamine, which is the primary building block of GAGs. It is B vitamins and trace minerals that your body employs to metabolize glucosamine into GAGs. Make sure your body has an ample supply of these nutrients in order to fortify your dermis. Stimulate the Production of Collagen and Elastin

The third method of reversing and repairing cellulite is to ensure that your body has plenty of collagen and elastin to fortify your connective tissue and keep it strong. As you know, when the dermis is strong and structurally sound, fat cells are unable to break through it and show through the surface. In order to promote the production of collagen and elastin, you need to provide your body with the raw materials for their production. The building blocks for collagen and elastin are amino acids.

Attract Water to the Cells
The fourth important component to effective cellulite treatment is making sure that all of your cells are fully hydrated. When cells do not have enough water, they are severely weakened and are unable to stand up to the pressure of fat that is fighting its way to the surface of your skin. If you rehydrate and revitalize your cells, they can become strong and firm enough to push the cellulite-forming fat cells back where they belong, below the visible layers of your skin. Healthy, hydrated cells make up skin that feels smooth and looks beautiful. Dehydrated cells have lost their barrier ability and can no longer keep toxins out and nutrients in. This is not true just of skin cells. This applies to cells all over your body. Proper water infusion helps you look beautiful and dimple-free. It also helps you to become healthier and less susceptible to disease

Repair Cell Membrane
If you give your body's cells the materials they need to reinforce their walls, all of your cells will have their optimal amount of water and will function at their peak level. Flush with healthy cells, the skin will be strong and youthful, and better able to keep water and absorb nutrients from other sources. At this point you may notice the cyclical nature of my cellulite solution. Every avenue of treating cellulite has its own specific benefits in dimple reduction, and each one symbiotically increases the effectiveness of all the others.

Reduce Wasted Water
Wasted water causes general problems such as bloating, weight gain, edema and puffy eyes. It also interferes with your body's ability to repair cellulite damage. Cells and connective tissue work best in conjunction with themselves and each other. This fluid seeps in between cells and connective tissue, and in between cells and other cells, thus preventing them from properly communicating and functioning as a unit. It provides gaps that fat cells can exploit and squeeze through. There are myriad reasons, not just cellulite prevention, for removing wasted water from your system and putting it where it can be of use to your health and beauty.

Prevent Free-Radical Damage
Free-radical damage from sources such as sun exposure, smoking and a poor diet do immeasurable damage to your tissues. Damaged skin is far more susceptible to cellulite and stretch marks than skin that has been protected from this harm. The only way to prevent and repair free-radical damage is with the use of antioxidants, both topically and internally.

Reduce Inflammation
Your body responds to damage by rushing defensive nutrients to the affected area. It does this by dilating the blood vessels and releasing specific chemicals. You notice that after an injury or infection your skin becomes warm and red. In fact, the redness that you experience from sunburn is actually the result of inflammation. While this is beneficial in the short term, prolonged inflammation actually causes the free-radical damage and cell wall deterioration that it is attempting to prevent. That is why it is important to use soothing ingredients, both topically and internally, to calm inflammation before it begins doing more harm than good. Fortunately, anti-inflammatories are widely available in a variety of products.

Promote Exfoliation
By the time we reach adulthood, our rate of cell turnover has drastically diminished, and we are left with a surface of dead skin cells that look dull and no longer provide an adequate barrier against the elements and water loss. The way to combat this is through exfoliation, the removal of surface dead cells. This can be done either chemically, using mild agents that dissolve the dead cells, or mechanically, using textured soaps or sponges and brushes that can wipe away the surface cells. When you remove cells from your skin's surface, a message is sent telling your body to create replacements. These will be strong young cells that not only look and feel healthy but also are better equipped to stand up to the onslaught of cellulite. It is important to remember that when you exfoliate, you are not so much removing cells as replacing them with stronger ones. By reducing these dead, ineffectual cells, you also increase the efficacy of topical treatments applied to the area.

Cellulite Treatments

Many of the following ingredients are essential oils and botanical extracts. Even some botanicals and antibacterial agents can cause reactions in sensitive skin types. To find out if you will have a negative reaction, do a small patch test on your forearm before using products on a large area of your body.

Aloe Vera
Aloe vera juice and oil are extracted from the aloe vera plant, which is found mainly in sunny climates. The leaves store large amounts of water. The extract improves hydration and is soothing and healing to all skin types. It is composed of water; the enzymes catalase and cellulose; minerals such as calcium, aluminum, iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium and sodium; as well as twenty amino acids. It is known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera is used safely and successfully as an anti-inflammatory and as a hydrating agent both as an edible ingredient and in topical applications. Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids

The following hydroxy acids are commonly used in cosmetic products:
citric acid (AHA)
glycolic acid (AHA)
lactic acid (AHA)
malic acid (AHA)
salycylic acid (AHA)
tartaric acid (AHA)

Certain formulations of AHA products can increase cell turnover rate and increase the thickness of the epidermis. The effect depends on the product's pH level or measure of its acidity, the AHA concentration, the AHA vehicle cream or cleanser, as well as how the product is used (for example, frequency and quantity of use, where on the skin it is applied). By speeding up exfoliation, the topical use of hydroxy acids makes skin appear smoother. Lactic acid is commonly found in milk, pickles and other foods made by bacterial fermentation. Lactic acid can help reduce the effects of photo-aging and can play an important role in the treatment of sun-damaged skin. Glycolic and salicylic acids are my favorite agents for increasing the cell turnover rate and uncovering younger skin. Hydroxy acids are one of the most popular keys to unclogging embedded cellular debris from pores and shedding the outermost layer of dead skin. Consistent exfoliation thins the dead skin that builds up, producing an ongoing vitality in skin texture and quality. If you stop using hydroxy acids, your skin will gradually revert to its normal sluggish turnover rate.

Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a potent fat- and water-soluble antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. This makes it different from most other topical antioxidants, which are soluble only in either fat or water. ALA can penetrate skin cells easily through the lipid-rich cell membrane and continues to be effective once inside the cell due to its water solubility. ALA has a protective effect on vitamins E and C, thereby boosting their antioxidant abilities within the body. ALA is touted as a superior antioxidant compound. However, there is still very little data on the effects of alpha lipoic acid on human skin. Its primary function is as an anti-inflammatory. Alpha lipoic acid may be used to soften pigmented stretch marks and has been used for pigmentary disorders.

Aminophylline—See methylixanthines.

Basil
Derived from the flowering tops and leaves of the basil plant, this extract is used to relieve pain and muscular spasms, and to stimulate blood flow. It is also known for its restorative and anti- inflammatory properties.

Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are a group of compounds consisting of potent plant derivatives. They have therapeutic anti-inflammatory attributes as well as strong antioxidant capabilities.

Borage Oil
Derived from the seed of borage, which grows abundantly in the Mediterranean region, Central Europe and Asia, Borage Oil has an extremely high gamma linolenic acid (an essential fatty acid) content. GLA is vital for the synthesis of prostaglandin, a substance necessary for all manner of functions in the body. Borage Oil has a very high content of essential unsaturated fatty acids, which are great skin conditioners and humectants that regulate the hydration of the skin. Although more study needs to be done, gamma linoleic acid may also have beneficial anti-inflammatory properties.

B Vitamins
There are eight B vitamins: folic acid, thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), cobalamin (B12) and biotin. The B complex group provides cumulative conditioning effects after extended and regular use. Niacin's topical form shows promise as an over-the-counter ingredient useful in anti-aging products. One derivative of niacin, nicotinamide, has been shown to improve the ability of the epidermis to retain moisture. Topical nicotinamide was found to produce softer, smoother skin with less dryness and flakiness, as well as a reduction of fine lines. These benefits can be useful for patients with dermatitis, or dry and irritated skin. It is also useful as a treatment for aging skin, which frequently becomes dry and flaky. Niacinamide, another derivative of niacin, has been shown to be an effective skin-lightening agent. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it a potential treatment for acne and rosacea. B vitamins are beneficial in aiding metabolism of raw nutrients into new connective tissue and cell membranes.

Butcher's Broom
Butcher's broom is a plant native to the Mediterranean region. Its spines were once popular in the making of brooms, which is where it gets its unique name. Extracts from the roots of this plant seem to have the ability to strengthen and tone blood vessels, which is why it is a popular treatment for varicose veins and hemorrhoids in Europe.

Caffeine—See methylxanthines.

Carnitine (L-Carnitine)
Carnitine is a substance found naturally in the body that is used to transport fatty acids to your cells, where they are metabolized. It therefore serves the dual purpose of fat burning and cell strengthening.

Cat's-Claw
Cat's-claw is a large vine native to South and Central America. It gets its name from hooked thorns resembling claws that grow along the vine. It has been used as an anti-inflammatory by indigenous peoples for thousands of years and has recently been used successfully to stimulate the immune systems of cancer patients. Cat's-Claw is also an antioxidant and has been found to increase blood flow throughout the body by dilating blood vessels.

Cayenne
The active ingredient in cayenne is a pungent substance known as capsaicin. Capsaicin appears to alter the action of the bodily compound (called substance P) that transfers pain messages to the brain, reducing pain and inflammation by short-circuiting the pain message. Topically, it stimulates the treated area and is used to increase cell function and blood flow.

Cedarwood
This botanical is considered an antiseptic with tonic and antifungal properties. It is used to reduce oil and blemishes, as a natural astringent, as a treatment for eczema, psoriasis, inflammation, dandruff, hair loss, dry or oily hair and to soften skin. As a lymphatic tonic, it is touted to aid in the removal of body fat and to stimulate the circulatory system.

Cintella Asiatica
Also called gotu kola and Tiger's Herb, this is an excellent vasodilator and blood vessel strengthener. It increases blood flow, thereby allowing for better absorption of nutrients. It is also often used as a diuretic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, and facilitates the actions of the antioxidants Citamins C and E in areas where there is damage. In fact, this plant got the nickname tiger's herb because injured tigers often rub against it to heal their wounds.

Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10, also called ubiquinone, is a powerful antioxidant. It has been shown to increase resistance to disease and to strengthen the heart. Its primary function is to create a substance known as ATP in the body's cells. ATP is vital for energy. It also has great antioxidant abilities, which work especially well in the heart and blood vessels. This dynamic substance is also showing great promise in studies of the prevention of heart disease, cancer and AIDS. It is also capable of boosting the antioxidant effect of vitamins C and E.

Copper Peptides
A peptide is an amino acid, which is a building block for collagen and elastin. Copper is a trace mineral that helps the body convert amino acids into this connective tissue. In theory, copper peptides should be an excellent source of collagen and elastin production, but sufficient study has yet to be done on this substance.

Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE)
Topical formulas containing DMAE have been touted for their ability to improve skin firmness and lift sagging skin.

Esculin (Horse Chestnut)
Also called Escin or Aescin, this nutrient is derived from the seeds of the Horse Chestnut Tree. Esculin is an excellent anti-inflammatory. More important, it has the ability to improve blood flow by filling in microscopic holes in the blood vessels. By reinforcing these veins, esculin also prevents future damage of the circulatory system.

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)
Essential fatty acids are so vital that they have been referred to as vitamin F. They have amazing hydrating abilities in topical creams, and when taken internally they help to build up the cell membranes and attract water to cells. Cold-water fish and ground flaxseeds are excellent food sources of EFAs.

Everlasting
This plant is a natural anti-inflammatory that is often used in aromatherapy oils and topical treatments for all kinds of skin disorders, including cellulite and stretch marks.

Fennel
Fennel is used as both a diuretic and an anti-inflammatory in some cellulite formulations. There has been too little study on it to determine how effective it is.

Ginger
Occasionally you find ginger used in a "cellulite soap" or a stretch mark scrub. While it does have antiseptic properties, its real help regarding cellulite is its anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo increases the blood flow throughout the body, expanding the reach of any nutrients in the food you eat. It is also a potent antioxidant.

Goji Berries
Goji berries are virtually every method of fighting cellulite rolled into one delicious nugget. They are an excellent source of essential fatty acids, antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, and they contain eighteen amino acids and twenty-one trace minerals.

Grapefruit
Grapefruit Oil and extract have been used for muscle fatigue, stiffness, acne, fluid retention, and skin tightening, and as an antiseptic and astringent. They have also been touted for aiding hair growth and reducing cellulite. Grapefruit increases circulation, stimulates the lymphatic system, and may help to regulate body weight with regular use. It is also a good source of the antioxidant Vitamin C.

Grape Seed
Grape-seed extract has the ability to inhibit the enzymes collagenase and elastase, which break down collagen and elastin. Preventing this damage from happening in the first place is much more effective than repairing it afterward. Grape-seed extract also contains a large amount of polyphenols, an antioxidant family that is particularly active in the skin.

Green Clay
Green clay is occasionally touted as a cellulite solution. Green clay contains many of the trace minerals that your body needs to metabolize nutrients into new tissue. In theory, these minerals should be effective when applied topically as well as when taken internally, but more study needs to be done on this before we can be sure.

Guarana
The guarana plant is native to the Amazon. It is helpful in cellulite treatments because of its ability to increase blood flow by dilating blood vessels. Studies are also finding that guarana has some antioxidant activity within the body.

Ivy Extract
Ivy is a climbing plant with evergreen leaves that is widely used in bath and body products for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Juniper Berries
Juniper berries come from the plant commonly known as mistletoe. Juniper berries and extracts are high in vitamin C. They have been used to treat pain and inflammation from arthritis and varicose veins, and to increase circulation.

Lecithin
Lecithin is derived from egg yolks, soybeans, and corn, among other sources. When taken internally on a regular basis, it aids your body in repairing and strengthening its cell membranes. Topically, it has a softening and soothing effect on skin and is considered a natural antioxidant and emollient. Emollients make the skin feel softer and smoother, and reduce roughness, cracking and irritation.

Lemongrass
Lemongrass is an ingredient in preparations to treat acne, cellulite and other skin-related conditions. It has astringent, calmative, antiseptic, anti-infectious, and antifungal properties. It is good for the hair, face and body. It can improve muscle tone and reduces excessive sweating and enlarged pores. Lemongrass stimulates hydration and lymphatic detoxification, strengthens connective tissue, and may tighten elastin.

Marine Extracts
Kelp derived from a marine plant, is used for its anti-inflammatory properties on the skin. It is rich in minerals and has been used to supply the thyroid gland with iodine in some instances. Kelp can also be used to hydrate the epidermis. Nutrients in algae, such as iodine, can supposedly nourish the skin and protect elastin fibers. Dried sea salts soften water and can be used for exfoliation. People travel from far and wide to bathe in hot springs, mineral baths, and the Dead Sea in Israel because of their unique mineral compositions. Natural mineral hot springs are also quite popular for their curative and relaxing benefits in Japan.

Methylxanthines
This is basically a family of diuretics that are often used to treat cellulite. When applied topically, these substances dehydrate the treated area. After repeated use, the area becomes smaller because of the loss of water. This decrease is only temporary-when use is discontinued, any water we ingest is reabsorbed into the area. While methylxanthines have no permanant effect on cellulite, they can temporarily minimize its appearance.

Methylxanthines include aminophylline, a synthetic diuretic; caffeine, present in kola nuts, coffee beans, tea, guarana and more than sixty plant species; theophylline, derived from tea leaves; and theobromine, derived from the seeds of the coca plant, present in chocolate.

Mint Extract
Mint extract is occasionally used in cosmetic products for its aromatic and anti-inflammatory capabilities.
Oat Beta Glucan
Oat beta glucan is an ingredient used in topical creams. It firms the skin on contact, immediately improving the appearance of sagging or uneven skin.

Pine
Pine oil is derived from steam distillation of wood from pine trees. It has been used for its disinfectant, anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. It also stimulates circulation.

Pomegranate
Pomegranate is my favorite source of antioxidants. When applied topically to the skin, pomegranate extract has an effect on preventing skin cancer in laboratory mice. Pomegranate is likely the world's most prolific source of polyphenols. This is a very potent family of antioxidants that work primarily in the skin. They are found in grape seeds and green tea, but most abundantly in pomegranates. It is also very beneficial in increasing the protective abilities of sunscreens.

Retinoids (Retin-A, Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate)
Topical use of retinoids over an extended period of time has the temporary effect of thickening and strengthening the dermis, making it more difficult for cellulite to push its way through. There is some evidence that retinoids also increase blood flow to the treated area.

Sweet Clover
Sweet clover stimulates blood flow and decreases inflammation in the vascular system. The clover plant produces abundant blossoms that are used in herbal oils and extracts.

Tea (Red, White, Black, Green)
Tea comes from leaves and leaf buds of plants cultivated principally in China, Japan, Ceylon and other Asian countries. Tea is a mild stimulant, and its tonic properties are due to the caffeine content. Topically, it is used to reduce puffiness in areas affected by cellulite. Green tea also contains polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that function primarily in the skin. It is thought that these antioxidants may be able to inhibit cancer in some cases. For example, the topical administration of green tea has been shown to result in a reduction of tumors that occurred following UVB radiation.

Trace Minerals
Zinc, manganese, copper, selenium, magnesium, boron, chromium, molybdenum, silica and vanadium are called trace minerals because our bodies need only a very small amount of them in order to function properly. All of the trace minerals are necessary for metabolism of nutrients. Without these, we would not be able to break down and utilize antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. Neither would we be able to convert lecithin and EFAs into our cell membranes, glucosamine into connective tissue, or amino acids into collagen and elastin. Trace minerals are a vital part of any cellulite treatment as well as overall health. Zinc soothes skin and also aids in the healing of wounds, burns and scars. In the skin, zinc promotes cell division, cell repair and cell growth.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate)
Vitamin C fights a three-pronged battle against cellulite and skin damage. First, it plays an important role in collagen synthesis, which has a firming effect on the skin. Vitamin C breaks down collagenase and elastinase, two naturally occurring substances in the body that attack collagen and elastin. Vitamin C is also a natural anti-inflammatory that helps in reversing some of the effects of sun damage. Finally, Vitamin C is a powerhouse antioxidant that has proved especially effective in battling free-radical damage within the skin.

Vitamin E
Vitamin E, both when applied topically and when taken internally, is a very potent fat-soluble antioxidant. This means that it can easily work its way into the fat-rich cell membranes in our bodies, protecting the cell walls from free-radical damage. Vitamin E is also an excellent hydrating and sealing agent when used in topical creams.

Anti-Dimple Treatments

Many popular treatments are purported to reduce cellulite and stretch marks. These range in invasiveness from gentle body wraps and massages to expensive surgical procedures.

What has not been measured is the impact that some of these therapies may have on your overall well-being and psyche, which is also of vital importance. For example, although lymphatic drainage may not be the definitive panacea for cottage cheese thighs, it may very well make you feel relaxed, invigorated, sleek and sexy. This topic was discussed in detail in Chapter 7. I am a big believer in doing anything that feels good, gives you pleasure and does you no harm. Being dimple-free and miserable is not a good trade-off. I want you to be smooth and happy with yourself too. Body Spa Treatments

These are basically facials for your body. They can be wonderfully beneficial on many levels. For example, the Murad Spa in California (as well as many other spas around the world) offers our Firm and Tone Body Treatment. It begins with exfoliation of the problem area to help prepare it for a deep high-concentration infusion of firming, free-radical-fighting vitamin C. The procedure ends with a massage to relax your body while stimulating blood flow and metabolism. I am a firm believer that professional spa treatments are the ideal way to maximize any skin care regimen, whether your goal is to clear up acne, wrinkles, sun damage, or cellulite and stretch marks.

Body Wraps
Body wraps basically work by inducing sweating. They have a temporary diuretic effect in that they cause water loss in the body. Unfortunately, fat cells and connective tissue are not affected by sweating. Wraps work on other levels too, however. The body is usually swathed for up to an hour in herb-and seaweed-soaked cloths to increase circulation and firm the body's contours. You can expect to be wrapped from chest to toe (arms are optional) while lying on a thermal blanket to keep you warm. A technician then unwraps you and, as a final step, massages your body to further enhance circulation, sending oxygen to blocked tissues. Body wraps are not recommended for anyone who is dehydrated, so be wary if you drink excessive amounts of alcohol or caffeine. Because body wraps increase internal temperature, they are also not recommended for anyone with high blood pressure, or for pregnant women.

Seaweed, clay, and herbal wraps are exfoliating and they can improve the skin's appearance and texture. Depending on the herbs used, herbal wraps can be stimulating or soothing. The other action of body wraps is the diuretic effect of inducing sweating and temporarily reducing wasted water. However, as soon as you drink a glass or two of fluid or eat a regular meal, the fluid returns.

Body wraps can provide some localized edema loss, good exfoliation, some pampering relaxation, and the possible introduction of minerals. In theory, trace minerals should be effective when applied topically, but we need more evidence to be certain.

Deep-Tissue Massage
Deep-tissue massage consists of slow strokes to create microtears in the superficial fascia. This makes tissue longer and smoother. The deep massage also loosens the connective tissue so that it moves more freely and no longer adheres to underlying structures. Deep massage followed by lymphatic drainage and appropriate stretching can also make the superficial fascia more flexible. The concurrent stimulation of the blood vessels can increase blood flow in the area, thereby increasing nutrition to the tissues.

Massage does not remove or decrease fat cells. It may improve the condition and appearance of the skin, reduce troublesome adhesions and scars, and increase the circulation of nutrients to tissues. When deep massage is too strong, it may also damage blood vessels, which defeats the benefits for cellulite reduction. Since areas with cellulite may already be sensitive, you can feel if too much pressure is applied. Deep massage provides relaxation and, if done properly, can stimulate the blood vessels and reduce stiffness.

A Sample Do-It-Yourself Massage
Begin by gently stroking with firm, moderate pressure, taking care not to press so hard that you break capillaries and bruise yourself. You can massage any time of the day, but it's best to wait at least two hours after eating. The most convenient time for most women is after a bath or shower-and preferably one that includes a brisk body rub with a loofah friction mitt. A bath is relaxing, and massage benefits you most when you are relaxed. Massaging areas of cellulite once or twice a day improves blood and lymph circulation and minimizes the appearance of the hard fatty lumps. Apply a moisturizing cream or oil to the area to be massaged, so that your hands can glide smoothly over the skin. Use your thumb and fingers to grip the skin and fatty layer beneath it. Then knead in small circular movements as though working with dough. Next, massage across the skin using the base of the palm of your hand, working in long, sweeping strokes toward the heart. Alternately, try a special handheld massager, which must be used with an oil or lotion to avoid excessive friction and broken capillaries.

Dermal Fillers
Fillers are an expensive and temporary method to improve the cosmetic appearance of dimpling. After a series of injections of human fat or another filling agent, the dimples may appear less obvious until the material eventually reabsorbs and the dimples return. This is a very costly and time-intensive procedure. To improve cellulite, any substance would have to be injected intradermally-into the skin and not below the skin-with a fine needle. For example, injectable hyaluronic acid gel may produce the effect of building GAGs. Injectable bovine (from cows) and human collagen may stimulate fibroblasts to strengthen the dermal layer. While these improve the appearance of uneven skin, the results wear off.

Electronic Anticellulite Devices
There are a few noninvasive, nonsurgical treatments for skin contour irregularities that are approved by the FDA for the "temporary reduction in the appearance of cellulite." One unit is a vacuum device that creates suction to temporarily immobilize and lift your fatty tissue, while dual rollers create deep, subdermal massage to the connective tissue. This stretches the connective tissue, increases blood and lymphatic flow, and exfoliates the skin.

These sessions take forty-five to ninety minutes and have been described as feeling like a rigorous massage. The typical treatment plans entail ten to twenty sessions, and once-a-month maintenance sessions, for an indefinite period of time. Once you stop having treatments, your skin texture and tone revert to their original state.

Treatments may leave you feeling invigorated, but long-term results have never been established either clinically or scientifically. These devices are also used as an adjunct to liposuction to smooth out potential imperfections that occur with large-volume fat reduction. They may cause bruising and damage to the dermis.

Iontophoresis
Iontophoresis devices are prescribed products that use electrical currents to feed mineral salts directly into your body. With the right nutrients, this method can potentially be used to treat cellulite. However, the only approved use for iontophoresis is for diagnosing cystic fibrosis.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage
The lymph system is the body's waste disposal system. It acts as a natural defense in the body by clearing away bacteria, cell debris, excess water, proteins, and wastes from the connective tissue and returning it to the bloodstream for ultimate removal by the kidneys. Many immune processes occur in the lymph nodes. If the pathways become congested, damaged, or severed, then fluids can build up in the connective tissue, leading to edema, swelling and inflammation. If there are any abnormalities in the tissues (as the result, for example, of chronic inflammation, recent surgery, congestion), the lymphatic system transports the damaged cells, inflammatory substances, and wasted water away from the area. The quicker this happens, the faster the recovery. Manual lymphatic drainage, the technique of gentle lymph massage, enhances and stimulates the lymphatic system to remove wastes more rapidly from around the cells and in the tissues, sending it back into the lymphatic system for removal and ultimate cleansing.

Dr. Emil Vodder developed MLD in France in the 1930s. He came up with a massage technique to stimulate the pump of the lymphatic system with gentle stationary circles on lymph nodes. MLD affects the nervous system, smoothes muscles, and increases fluid movement in the connective tissue. It involves a slow, rhythmical touch applied by the therapist in the form of a light massage that can be very relaxing. It has a calming, stress-reducing effect that can also reduce pain.

For cellulite treatment, the therapist first assesses the condition of the skin: color, texture, temperature, moisture and elasticity. The next step is to look at the contour of the hips and legs, and hunt for skin thickening, ridges, lumps, and visible scars that run across lymph vessels and may obstruct lymph drainage. He or she examines visible veins, looking for redness, swelling, heat and pain. Lymphatic drainage is very useful before and after cosmetic surgery to decrease bruising, edema and inflammation. The effects are only temporary, and it has not been shown to reduce dimpling in the long term, but it may provide relaxing benefits.

Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is microinjections of conventional or homeopathic medication and/or vitamins into the middle of the dermis, in order to deliver healing or corrective treatment to a specific area of the body. Injections of various substances, from vitamins to drugs to anesthetics, are used for many ailments and conditions, including cellulite reduction. At present, there are no substantial clinical studies to prove that this technique is a cure for cellulite. Mesotherapy is administered directly to the desired area of the body. As many as one hundred to five hundred skin-deep injections are delivered into trouble spots such as the hips or thighs. For cellulite, the injections usually include tiny amounts of the diuretic aminophylline and the heart medication isoproterenol, which is said to melt fat, along with other homeopathic substances.

The problem with mesotherapy is that there is no standardization or specific formula. The ingredients change with each practitioner of the technique, and results may vary depending on what is injected and in what ratio. The number of treatments needed depends on several factors, such as the severity of the condition and the cause of the problem. Long-term, chronic cellulite and wrinkles may require at least fifteen sessions before you notice any result.

Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a popular alternative to chemical peeling that utilizes a blast of aluminum oxide or salt crystals to exfoliate skin superficially. Microdermabrasion uses tiny particles that pass through a vacuum tube to gently scrape away the aging skin and stimulate new cell growth. Because of the superficial nature of this technique, multiple treatments are usually required. The results are similar to a light peel. There has been a proliferation of handheld devices designed to be used at home as an alternative to salon or clinical microdermabrasion treatments. Although not as effective as professional treatments, these devices do exfoliate and can be used for the body as well as the face. As an adjunctive therapy, microdermabrasion may accelerate the use of certain topical treatments such as moisturizers, antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.

Nonablative Lasers
By pointing these lasers at the affected area, the collagen and elastin bundles become heated and move closer to the surface. This has the effect of firming the skin's dermis and evening out some imperfections. These lasers may also increase the distance between the dermis and the fat that causes cellulite. The results of this treatment are temporary.

Peels
Peels utilize a strong concentration of a chemical exfoliating agent to resurface the skin. New cells made by the remaining dermis result in a newly healed surface, and voilà-healthier and more radiant skin is uncovered. Chemical peels are flexible and can be adapted to various levels depending on how deep a peel you want and how sensitive your skin is. Glycolic acid is commonly used and is generally safer than trichloracetic acid (TCA). TCA peels can penetrate deeper into the skin to destroy and remove the outer layers. They work by actually damaging your skin to the point that your body needs to build new collagen and elastin bundles. You might feel a burning or stinging sensation, and there will be moderate swelling of the treated areas for about a week and minimal scabbing. Further healing and toughening of the new skin take place for the next few weeks following a TCA peel. While this will work in thickening and firming the dermis, the effect is temporary, and there is a risk of scarring. This risk is minimized when glycolic acid is used instead of TCA.

Skin Brushing
Skin brushing is a simple technique that stimulates blood and lymph flow, removes dead skin cells, and encourages new cell growth. You need only a loofah or a body brush with natural rather than synthetic bristles and a long handle or strap so that you can reach your back and buttocks. To work your whole body, start at your feet and work your way up. Brushing the whole body in this way takes between three and five minutes, depending on how many strokes you give to each area. Pay particular attention to the cellulite-prone areas, using small circular movements. It is best done in the morning-the resulting acceleration of blood flow can be quite invigorating. The difference in your skin may be visible after just a few sessions-it becomes very soft and develops a rosy glow. Dry skin brushing must be done gently without harsh or rigorous rubbing that can damage the dermis. Overbrushing causes the skin to turn red and become irritated.

Treatments that stimulate the blood flow to the skin can have beneficial effects when combined with the other principles of internal and external skin care. Although there are no blood vessels in the epidermis, the dermis is rich with blood vessels, and the epidermis receives nutrients and oxygen supply from the dermis. The blood vessels in the dermis are continuations of larger vessels located deeper in the body that branch out into smaller vessels as they approach the surface of the skin. Brushing can help to stimulate these vessels.

Thalassotherapy
Thalassa is the Greek word for "sea." It is well-known that seawater is rich in minerals and nutrients, including iodine, copper, zinc, iron, strontium and plankton. Thalassotherapy combines the application of seaweed and heated seawater to dilate the pores and blood vessels, making the skin more permeable and open to the absorption of sea minerals. This method has been used to treat arthritis and other medical conditions, as well as for slimming and cellulite reduction.

Murad Cellulite Solution Smoothie
1st Cellulite Smoothie Ingredient: ½ cup pomegranate juice (unsweetened)
2nd Cellulite Smoothie Ingredient: ½ cup soy milk
3rd Cellulite Smoothie Ingredient: ½ cup blueberries (fresh or unsweetened frozen)
4th Cellulite Smoothie Ingredient: 1 tablespoon lecithin granules
5th Cellulite Smoothie Ingredient: 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
6th Cellulite Smoothie Ingredient: 2 tablespoons dried goji berries (if available)
7th Cellulite Smoothie Ingredient: 3 to 4 ice cubes or crushed ice (optional)
8th Cellulite Smoothie Ingredient: Splenda (sucralose) or Stevia extract (optional)

Place all ingredients in a blender and liquefy.

Close