Characterized by the dimpled appearance of the skin, particularly on the thighs, hips, and buttocks, cellulite can be a source of frustration and insecurity for many.
One widespread myth regarding cellulite is that it mainly affects people who are obese or unhealthy. Cellulite is a common cosmetic concern that affects people of all shapes and sizes, and we have seen plenty of skinny people with cellulite, debunking the myth that it only plagues overweight individuals.
Although skin dimpling is more obvious when a person is carrying some extra pounds, this is not always the case, and cellulite can occur in individuals who are slender, of normal weight or possess any body type. Even skinny models can have cellulite.
Today we will talk about the causes of cellulite, and its impact on different body types, answer questions like “Why am I skinny with cellulite?” and offer some potential strategies for managing its appearance.
What Is Cellulite?
Cellulite is the result of fat deposits pushing through the fibrous connective tissue, known as collagen, that lies beneath the skin. This creates a lumpy appearance on the surface, similar to the texture of an orange peel or cottage cheese. The dimpling effect is more visible in certain areas because the skin is thinner and the fibrous tissue securing the underlying fat cells is arranged in a way that promotes the uneven distribution of the fatty tissue.
Causes of Cellulite
Cellulite is a result of an accumulation of fat beneath the skin; however, there are various contributing factors, including:
- Genetics And Gender
- Genetic predisposition (hereditary) plays a significant role in determining whether an individual is prone to developing cellulite. If your parents, close relatives, or other family members have cellulite, there is a higher likelihood that you will experience it as well.
Additionally, gender plays a role in the likelihood that you will get cellulite, as only 10% of the male population will develop it. Men’s fibrous tissue patterns are closer knit and woven in a crisscross pattern under the skin, making a stronger barrier and preventing the dimpling that causes cellulite. 90% of all women end up with cellulite located somewhere on their body. The fat cells under a woman’s skin tend to be larger naturally, and the connective tissue is arranged in a honeycomb-type pattern, so the fat cells are more likely to bulge through the gaps of the fibrous bands, which causes the dimpled look.
- Hormone Changes
- Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can influence the formation of cellulite. The hormone estrogen can promote the storage of fat in certain areas, contributing to cellulite development.
- Lifestyle and Diet Affect Cellulite
- Sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and excessive consumption of processed foods and sugars can lead to weight gain and an increase in body fat, which may exacerbate the appearance of cellulite.
- Skin Thickness and Elasticity Play A Part In Cellulite Formation
- Cellulite may appear more pronounced on Individuals with thinner skin and less elasticity because the underlying fat deposits will be more visible.
Cellulite On Skinny People
Contrary to what many people believe, being skinny does not exempt you from developing cellulite. While it is true that individuals with a higher body fat percentage are more prone to cellulite, even those with a low percentage of body fat can experience it due to genetic factors, hormonal fluctuations, and the physical makeup of their skin.
The distribution of fat and collagen fibers under the skin varies from person to person, which influences the appearance of cellulite. For skinny people with cellulite, it may not be as pronounced as for those with more body fat, but it can still be present under the surface and become more obvious over time.
Can Cellulite Be Prevented Or Eliminated?
It is not possible to completely prevent cellulite; however, there are steps you can take to reduce its appearance and minimize its development. Cellulite is a common and natural occurrence, and most people have some degree of it.
Committing to living a healthy life and doing all you can to properly care for your body and skin can help you reduce your risk of experiencing cellulite. Unfortunately, there is no way to completely guarantee that you will never see cellulite in your lifetime, however, there are a few tips you can incorporate into your routine that may be helpful in reducing your odds.
- Physical exercise gets your blood pumping and improves your overall circulation. This is critical for the health of all of your organs and promotes healthy skin. A good mix of workouts that get your heart rate up and strengthen your muscles would be excellent.
- Sticking to a healthy diet that is full of essential nutrients but low in calories will give your body what it needs to properly function and will help you maintain a weight that is healthy. Make a point to eat a variety of whole foods from all the recommended food groups and avoid highly processed selections or those full of fat or sugar.
- It is also very important that you keep your body at an adequate hydration level. Consuming a certain amount of water each day is one of the most important things you can do for your skin. This will keep it healthy and promote its elasticity.
- Lymphatic massage techniques and practices, like dry brushing specific areas of the body, can help remove toxins and enhance the circulation. Also, topical creams that contain caffeine may be helpful in temporarily reducing the appearance of cellulite.
Where Can I Go To Get Collagen Treatments?
Whether you’re chunky or skinny, cellulite on the stomach, buttocks, or thighs can be a real issue. You can spend hours in the gym and eat healthy and still fall victim to cellulite. While there is no fail-safe way to prevent cellulite from forming, living a healthy lifestyle and following the tips outlined above are definitely steps in the right direction. If cellulite does end up showing up uninvited, SurgiCare Arts & Aesthetics can help!
We offer a variety of cosmetic treatments that can safely and effectively reduce or eliminate visible cellulite. Contact us today to book a consultation to learn more about our most sought-after cellulite treatments: Evolve, and Morpheus8. Make sure you check out our specials for the month for some great deals!
