What is cellulite or orange peel skin and how to prevent it?

cellulite This is one of the horrors that keeps us up at night when we are about to go to the beach and leave a significant part of our skin unprotected.

But,what is cellulite?

• A disruption of subcutaneous tissue due to accumulation of toxins, fluid and fatwhich is accompanied by changes in the microcirculation of connective tissue, which is responsible for supporting and protecting other tissues and organs of our body.

The appearance process begins with a decrease in blood circulation and lymph flow in this area. The vessels become permeable and fluid leaks out, forming edema..

In this case, fat cells and adipocytes suffer. hyperplasia And hypertrophychange in their metabolism and are located heterogeneously in the islets.

Cellular debris thickens the interstitial fluid, impeding the exchange of nutrients and irritating fibroblasts, which begin to synthesize collagen and elastin fibers.

These fibers form a network that entraps vessels, nerves and adipocytes, causing pain and orange peel appearance, which ultimately leads to sclerosis.

This phenomenon usually appears during puberty and affects 90% of womenalthough men are not free from this.

What Causes Cellulite

There are a number of factors that predispose a person to developing cellulite, including:

• Genetic predisposition.

• Hormonal factors that occur at certain points in the life cycle, such as puberty, pregnancy or menopause.

• Circulatory problems that can aggravate or trigger the appearance of cellulite.

• Changes in fat tissue (localized obesity)

• Constipation.

• Causing and/or aggravating medications such as oral contraceptives, antithyroid drugs or beta blockers.

• Lead a very sedentary lifestyle.

• Consume alcohol surplus.

• Emotional factors and stress.

• Nutritional deficiencies and diets rich in carbohydrates and fats.

Degrees of cellulite

Dermatologists at the Piel Sana Foundation classify cellulite “based on the presence or absence of orange peel”:

• 1st class: In this case, the skin is smooth and cannot be seen with the naked eye or when the skin is pinched with fingers.

• 2nd grade: To this extent, when you pinch the skin with your fingers or contract your muscles, the famous orange peel appears.

• 3rd grade: Cellulite is clearly visible when a person stands, but disappears when he lies down.

• 4th grade: Orange peel appears “with or without tingling, while standing or lying down, and usually occurs in postmenopausal and obese women.”

Another way to classify cellulite is based on skin consistency:

• Hard skin: Tissues in the most problematic areas become elastic and toned. Tinted fabrics are stiff and hard to the touch. This is common among young women who exercise. It is usually associated with stretch marks and corresponds to the degree

• Loose skin: The tissues are soft, feel soft and ripple when moved. This type of skin is characteristic of the most sedentary women or those who have lost a lot of weight in a short time.

• swollen skin: Characterized by inflammation of the lower extremities and pain.

• Mixed skin: “This is the most common type of cellulite; the same person has more than one type in different places,” point out the Piel Sun Foundation.

Is it possible to remove it?

Although there are many remedies and creams available in the market to combat this condition, the reality is that there is no truly effective treatment to put an end to it.

What is possible is to improve its appearance and, in some cases, its thickness. Therefore, before turning to “miracle products” that may only cost us money, it is best to follow the recommendations General Council of Pharmacistswho can best advise us on the best products:

• We remember Santa Barbara when it rocks, but the reality is that it’s best to apply anti-cellulite products 1-2 times a day year-round.

• When applying this type of cream, you should perform a circular massage from bottom to top from the ankle to the waist to stimulate blood circulation.

• Using an exfoliant 1 or 2 times a week will increase the effectiveness of treatment.

• And not just creams. It is essential to complement these treatments physical exercise (where no exposure occurs) and a balanced diet.

• Drink at least 2 liters of water per day.

• Limit excessive heat from intense sun exposure, saunas and/or hot baths.

• Avoid wearing tight clothing and high heels.

• Consider wearing socks for lounging.

• Avoid sitting, standing, or crossing your legs for long hours.

When to consult a specialist

And one last note from pharmacists regarding cellulite. In some cases this phenomenon It’s no longer just a matter of aesthetics and should prompt us to see a doctor. When?

• If the patient is a minor.

• If there is a suspicion of cellulite caused or aggravated by taking medications.

• If it is associated with metabolic, hormonal or orthopedic diseases.

• If this is a grade 4 case or we suspect infectious cellulitis.

• If after treatment there is no improvement or worsening is observed.