Cellulite is an accumulation of old fat cell clusters that
solidifies and hardens as the surrounding tissue loses its elasticity.
Cellulite affects around 90 % of women and 10 % of men
during their lifetime. On the surface, cellulite appears as lumpy or dimpled
skin. However, the process of developing cellulite is more than skin deep.
The puckering of skin happens when the layer of fat beneath
the skin pushes against connective tissue and bulges, causing the
characteristic orange-peel or cottage cheese appearance. For women, the risk of
developing cellulite increases with age and peaks near menopause. Hormonal
changes, specifically a decline in estrogen levels, may contribute to changes
in circulation and a reduction in the production of collagen.
Other risk factors include high levels of insulin and catecholamines, both integral in the
breakdown and storage of fat molecules.
Besides being cosmetically unappealing, cellulite really is
unhealthy. Toxins and petrochemicals tend to accumulate in fatty tissue,
contributing to hormonal imbalance, neurological problems and a higher risk of
disease.
Women have a higher risk of developing cellulite as there is
a significant difference in the way their connective tissue and fat cells are
arranged compared to men. Fat cells in women tend to be arranged vertically
under the skin.
