Cellulite
 Varicose Veins
Cellulite

What Is Cellulite?

Cellulite is a kind of fat tissue in the subcutaneous layer of the skin that contains constricting bands of connective tissue. This connective tissue, which varies in thickness and is laced with fat cells, is held in place by a network of fibers that protects our body, cushioning our muscles and organs; it is surrounded by a liquid that both nourishes it and provides it with an effective waste system.

When all is working well in the system, waste products are removed and smooth curves result; when fats, fluids and toxins are trapped deep in the skin (below the epidural layer), however, the connective tissue thickens and hardens, giving a dimpling effect. As we mature, the layer of skin thins, resulting in the rippled appearance of cellulite.

Who gets cellulite?

90% of post-adolescent women go on to develop cellulite at some time during their life although it is very hardly ever seen in men. The thighs, buttocks and the abdomen are the most common areas for a woman to develop cellulite. Although it is often mistaken for obesity, cellulite is not actually obesity related because it can also take place in thin lean women.

What is the difference between cellulite and fat?

Though everyone has a smooth layer of fat, individual amounts depend on weight, lifestyle and genetics. This fat layer is an insulator for the body and cushions the organs, muscles and nerves. Cellulite, on the other hand, is lumpy and provides no padding whatsoever. It only occurs in certain areas of the body: the thighs, buttocks, abdomen and breasts. When men get cellulite, it tends to be on the neck and abdomen.

What causes cellulite?
  • Hormonal factors such as estrogen also play a role in cellulite formation. Cellulite is for the most part found in women during their hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause and also whilst taking birth control pills. A woman's hormones are usually responsible for the regulation of their blood flow, fat, connective tissue and lymphatic drainage.

  • A person's genetic makeup predicts their fat storage and metabolism in these fatty layers which are predisposed by diet, exercise and lifestyle.

  • Female gender predisposes one to cellulite. The subcutaneous fat layer in a woman is organised into large upright chambers allowing fat to be stored. In men, these chambers are organised into small slanting units. These store smaller fat quantities and are not likely to form cellulite.

  • With age there is a loss in the thickness and tone of the connective tissue in the superficial fat layer and the dermis. Unfortunately noticeable, flaccid cellulite is the result.
Can exercise or diet help cellulite?

Cellulite's formation is a result of complex physiological changes that occur in the subcutaneous fat layer. Regular exercise and well balanced diets do not always reverse or prevent its formation, although an unhealthy lifestyle will make the overall appearance worse over time due to poor nutrition, weight gain and lack of sufficient water intake.

How does Solidea anti-cellulite wear help?

Solidea SILVER WAVE Micro-massage Shapewear uses patented high technology special wave fabric which exerts an effective micromassaging effect on the skin in response to our natural body movements. This stimulates capillary (blood) circulation impaired by cellulite, preventing swelling (edemas) of the legs and assists elimination of excess toxins and fluids.

SILVER WAVE Shapewear is found to fight cellulite and water retention with constant use. Their results are increased when they are worn during physical activity. Clinical tests have demonstrated significant improvement of tissue tone, firmness and reduction of the ‘orange peel” effect of cellulite areas.



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