Finding out whether some women more likely to develop dimples than others...
There’s nothing more normal than a few or even a multitude of dimples dotted around the thighs, or even on one’s derriere. And yet, despite the fact that according to non-invasive body contouring doctor, Galyna Selezneva. “Between 80-90 per cent of all post-pubescent women have some level of visible cellulite,” these natural depressions in our skin have become one of our major bugbears. But what is cellulite exactly? And is it possible to wave goodbye to your dimples for good?
What causes cellulite?
The division of fat is what’s actually going on under the surface. “Cellulite is a visual representation of pockets of fat running between hard fibrous bands that are attached to the skin,” shares Selezneva. If you’re wondering why it’s generally only seen in women, well that’s because hormones - specifically oestrogen - play a major role in the development of cellulite, and because the arrangement of our connective tissue differs to that of men too. “When oestrogen and progesterone levels are not in balance – think puberty, pregnancy, during the menopause or when taking contraception or HRT cellulite can ensue,” explains Selezneva.
But if most of us have cellulite, why is it more visible in some than others? “The higher the fat percentage of your mass the thicker your subcutaneous fat layer, so the underlying fibrous tissue cuts into the skin more,” says Selezneva. Meaning your dress size doesn’t dictate whether you’ll develop cellulite, since we’ve learnt that most of us have or will develop the condition, but a higher fat percentage can make your cellulite more visible.
Genetics and lifestyle play a role too. Cellulite tends to run in families, while a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, and smoking can also play a part. “Moreover, as we age, skin loses its elasticity resulting in the worsening appearance of cellulite too,” adds Selezneva.
Can cellulite be reduced?
If you ask a range of experts, you’ll get a slightly different answer to this question. However, the consensus is that cellulite is a tricky condition to treat. “You can’t ‘cure’ cellulite, but you can manage its outwardly appearance thanks to modern science and a change in lifestyle practices,” believes Selezneva.
Lifestyle changes
A balanced diet, rich in nutrients and whole foods can help with maintaining a healthy fat percentage that will ensure your cellulite isn’t as prominent. But not only that, what you eat can impact the quality of your skin, and firmer skin means less visible cellulite.
The lymphatic system also plays a key role in the health and appearance of our skin. “It’s a network of channels under the skin that helps facilitate the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to our cells. It also rids the body of pollutants and toxins,” shares Selezneva. To give your lymphatic system a helping hand, keep yourself hydrated, and walk briskly for 20 minutes a day.
At-home treatments
Experts recommend dry brushing daily to give your lymphatic system a nudge, tag team this with daily infrared sauna sessions in the comfort of your own home thanks to the CurrentBody Infrared Sauna Blanket, £549. By reducing inflammation, this helps promote a healthy lymphatic flow. While the chemical reactions it’s able to induce to increase the body’s internal temperature helps you burn calories all while lying down. There’s also the clever Wellbox® Slimming & Anti-Ageing Device, £900, which tackles cellulite like a dream. It’s a multitasking wonder that tightens the skin, reduces fat and targets the cells in charge of regulating the fat storage in our body. This last benefit is key when it comes to cellulite. As we age the effectiveness of these cells dwindles causing an acceleration of fat storage—leading to, you guessed it - an excess of cellulite.
In-clinic devices
Selezneva is a fan of the Deleo device, Collation. Powered by “high intensity LED to help break open fat cells, and firm the skin, combined with a suction style mechanical massage to promote lymph drainage and a vibration wave to reduce water retention and boost microcirculation. It offers a reduction of the fat cells pushing through the fibrous bands, resulting in a smoother, less dimpled look overall,” she explains.
So, while almost everyone gets it, and it’s not a condition you should be embarrassed by, there are a number of daily practices and treatments you can take advantage of to lessen the appearance of your dimples if you so choose to.
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