Common Causes of Cellulites

Cellulite is a condition wherein certain parts of the skin take on a lumpy, dimpled appearance. Also known as adiposis edematosa, cellulite occurs when fatty tissues accumulate under the skin—usually in the lower parts of the body—causing the surface of the skin to resemble that of an orange peel. Although cellulite does not pose harm in the body, it could be unsightly; so those with obvious cellulites try to hide it. Cellulites causes are categorized between health and medical causes. While cellulites could affect men and women, this condition is more common in women.

Unfortunately, despite hundreds of cellulite treatments being sold on the market, there is no known treatment that could eliminate cellulite for good. To avoid developing cellulite, you need to know what causes it. Below are the five of common causes of cellulites:

Genetics

Yes, some people are just prone to unsightly cellulites. If your parents or relatives are suffering from cellulites, chances are, you will have it too.

Hormones/Hormonal Imbalance

Changes in the body during puberty could cause cellulite. The female hormone known as estrogen may trigger the development of cellulite. Hormonal imbalance may also lead to cellulite formation. Cortisol increases when the estrogen level in the body dips and the progesterone level spikes. Cortisol is a fat-storing hormone caused by an overactive adrenal gland. This increase in cortisol leads to the appearance of cellulite.

Abnormal Metabolic Rate

A slow metabolic rate may also lead to increased chances of developing cellulite. When the body does not burn all the fat, the excess is stored in the body. As fat accumulates, more and more fat is pushed outwards the subcutaneous layer of the skin. This leads to the dimpled appearance of the skin, similar to cottage cheese.

Race

Cellulite is more common among Caucasians than Asians or African-Americans. Leading experts believe that race could also be a factor in developing cellulite.

Unhealthy Lifestyle

Smoking is not only bad for the lungs; it could also be bad for the skin. Smoking contains carcinogenic compounds that weaken the skin by constricting the capillaries. This not only results in premature aging, it also damages connective tissues. Having damaged connective tissues can cause the body to develop cellulites or make cellulites more visibly prominent.

Poor Diet

Certain types of food may lead to the development of cellulite. For instance, excessive consumption of caffeine, alcohol, and spicy food leads to fat being trapped in the tissues, causing cellulite. A diet with very little vegetables and fruits leads to abnormal digestive processes. This makes it very hard for the body to break down food and expel toxins as waste.  We recommend eating more fiber-rich foods to cut down the risk of developing cellulite. Also, you might also want to pair a healthy diet with drinking more water. Water helps flush out toxins from the system.

A Sedentary Lifestyle

It’s no surprise that a lifestyle lacking in exercise could increase the chance of developing cellulite. Cellulites are often formed when the skin’s inner layers are weakened. Simple exercises may help minimize cellulite by toning the muscles and restoring the skin’s firmness and elasticity.