What is cellulite: Understanding its formation and causes
Publié le 04-06-2024 et mis à jour le 17-10-2024
Cellulite is a common aesthetic concern, primarily affecting women, and can have a significant impact on self-confidence .
It manifests itself as a bumpy appearance or orange peel appearance on the skin, particularly on the thighs, buttocks and abdomen. Despite its frequency, cellulite is often surrounded by myths and misunderstandings.
This article aims to answer the question "what is cellulite" and shed light on how it forms, exploring its causes and the different methods to reduce it. Our goal is to provide you with an in-depth understanding of this phenomenon in order to better manage it and find smoother and firmer skin.
Summary
I. What is cellulite? II. What causes cellulite? III. Factors contributing to cellulite 1. Anatomy of connective tissue and subcutaneous fat 2. Accumulation of subcutaneous fat 3. Circulation problems and water retention 4. Decreased collagen and skin elasticity 5. Hormonal influences 6. Genetic factors 7. Lifestyle factors IV. Different types: Adipose, aqueous, fibrous – how to identify them? V. How to eliminate it? VI. Food supplements and their role: Which active ingredients to choose for smoother and firmer skin? Discover the range
I. What is cellulite?
Cellulite forms when subcutaneous fat cells push against connective tissue, creating visible bulges on the surface of the skin.
Several factors contribute to cellulite, including hormonal imbalances, poor blood circulation and lymphatic, accumulation of toxins >, adecrease in collagen productionand genetic influences.
Although not harmful, cellulite can affect self-confidence and is often targeted with interventions to improve the appearance of the skin.
II. What causes cellulite?
Cellulite is caused by a combination of internal and external factors. Hormonal imbalances, genetics, lifestyle, and diet all play a role in its appearance. The structure of connective tissue and the arrangement of subcutaneous fat cells are also key elements. In order to combat cellulite , you need to understand it well and identify what type of cellulite you have.
III. Factors contributing to cellulite
1. Anatomy of connective tissue and subcutaneous fat
The skin is made up of three main layers:
- epidermis (outer layer)
- the dermis (intermediate layer)
- the hypodermis (subcutaneous layer).
The hypodermis contains fat cells(adipocytes) and connective tissue.
In women, fat cells and collagen fibers are arranged vertically.
As fat cells increase in size, they push toward the surface of the skin, while collagen fibers pull the skin down, creating thebumpy appearance of cellulite.
The anatomy of connective tissue and subcutaneous fat is essential to understanding cellulite formation.
Here is a detailed description of these components:
Connective tissue
Connective tissue is a complex matrix of fibers and cells that supports and connects other tissues and organs in the body. It mainly consists of:
- Collagen Fibers
These fibers are robust and offer high tensile strength. They are responsible for the firmness and structure of the skin.
- Elastin fibers
Less abundant than collagen fibers, they give the skin its elasticity, allowing the skin to stretch and regain its shape.
- Fundamental Substance
An aqueous gel rich in glycosaminoglycans (such as hyaluronic acid) which facilitates the diffusion of nutrients and waste between cells and capillaries.
- Fibroblasts
The main cells of connective tissue that produce collagen and elastin fibers, as well as the ground substance.
Subcutaneous Fat
Subcutaneous fat is the layer of fat located just under the skin, in the subcutaneous tissue.
She plays several roles:
- Adipocytes
Fat cells store energy in the form of lipids. They may increase in size (hypertrophy) or number (hyperplasia).
- Fat Lobules
Adipocytes are grouped into lobules separated by connective tissue partitions (collagen fibers)
- Blood and Lymphatic Vessels
They are present in subcutaneous fat to provide nutrients and oxygen to fat cells and to drain metabolic waste.
Relationship between Connective Tissue and Subcutaneous Fat
In the context of cellulite, the interaction between connective tissue and subcutaneous fat is crucial.
The collagen fibers of the connective tissue form a sort of network that compartmentalizes the adipocytes into lobules.
When adipocytes swell due to fat accumulation, they exert outward pressure on the skin, while collagen fibers pull the skin inward.
This interaction causes the appearance of the bumps and hollows characteristic of cellulite.
Additionally, the quality and arrangement of collagen fibers can vary between individuals, thus influencing the susceptibility to developing cellulite.
Hormonal, genetic factors and aging can also alter the structure of connective tissue, affecting the firmness and elasticity of the skin.
In summary, connective tissue and subcutaneous fat play interrelated roles in the formation of cellulite, where the expansion of adipocytes and the structure of collagen fibers create the bumpy appearance of the skin.
Now let's find out in more detail all the factors contributing to cellulite.
2. Accumulation of subcutaneous fat
The accumulation of subcutaneous fats is a central factor in the development of cellulite.
Cellulite forms when fat cells under the skin increase in size and number. These fat cells, or adipocytes, are found in compartments separated by collagen fibers.
When adipocytes swell from excess fat, they push against the skin, while collagen fibers pull the skin down, creating an uneven, bumpy surface.
This expansion of fat cells also puts pressure on nearby blood and lymph vessels, worsening circulation to the affected area.
Poor circulation, in turn, slows the elimination of waste and toxins, which can cause local inflammation and fluid retention, further accentuating the appearance of cellulite.
In summary, the accumulation of subcutaneous fat contributes to the formation of cellulite by creating protrusions under the skin and disrupting circulation, which reinforces the bumpy appearance characteristic of this condition.
3. Circulation problems and water retention
Poor blood and lymphatic circulation can lead to a buildup of fluid and toxins in the tissues, worsening the appearance of cellulite.
Blood circulation is essential for providing oxygen and nutrients to cells, as well as removing metabolic waste.
When circulation is insufficient, skin cells and fat cells receive less oxygen and nutrients, which can slow down fat metabolism and promote fat accumulation.
At the same time, the lymphatic systemis responsible for draining fluids and toxins.
Poor lymphatic circulation can lead to water retention and a buildup of toxins in the tissues, causing inflammation and swelling. Water retention increases pressure on adipocytes and collagen fibers, contributing to the "orange peel" effect.
These conditions create an environment conducive tofat cell expansionandfibrosis formation, making the skin stiffer and less able to maintain a smooth appearance.
In short, poor blood and lymphatic circulation contributes to the formation and worsening of cellulite by promoting the accumulation of fats and toxins, as well as disrupting the water balance of tissues.
4. Decreased collagen and skin elasticity
Collagen depletion has a significant impact oncellulite due to the structure and function of collagen in the skin.
Collagen is an essential protein that gives skin its firmness and elasticity.
When collagen production decreases, usually with age or due to environmental factors like poor diet or excessive sun exposure, skin loses tension and becomes looser /strong>.
This loss of firmness allows subcutaneous fat cells to more easily push through weakened collagen fibers, creating the bumpy and hollow appearance characteristic of cellulite.
In other words, a decrease in collagen weakens the structure of the skin, facilitating the appearance of cellulite.
5. Hormonal influences
Hormones, particularly estrogens, play a crucial role in the development of cellulite.
Estrogens can influence fat distribution, blood circulation, lymphatic drainage and collagen production.
For example, a decrease in estrogen levels, such as what occurs during menopause, can lead to reduced blood flow to fat storage areas, thereby decreasing collagen production and tissue regeneration.
This can contribute to the buildup of fat and fluid, exacerbating the appearance of cellulite.
6. Genetic factors
Geneticsalso plays an important role in susceptibility to developing cellulite.
Genes can influence fat distribution, skin and connective tissue structure, basal metabolism and hormonal response.
If you have family members who have cellulite, there's a good chance you will develop it too.
7. Lifestyle factors
Food: A diet high in fats, sugars and salt can contribute to fat accumulation and water retention, thus worsening cellulite. An unbalanced diet can also lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients for skin health, such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Physical activity: Lack of physical exercise can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and an accumulation of fat, which can accentuate the appearance of cellulite. Regular exercise helps burn fat, improve blood circulation and strengthen muscles under the skin, reducing the visibility of cellulite.
Hydration: Insufficient hydration can make skin less elastic and more likely to show signs of cellulite. Drinking enough water helps keep skin hydrated and promotes good blood and lymphatic circulation.
Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking reduces blood circulation and degrades collagen and elastin, two key components for firm skin. Alcohol, on the other hand, can lead to water retention and toxin deposits in the tissues, worsening cellulite.
IV. Different types: Adipose, aqueous, fibrous – how to identify them?
1. What causes cellulite?
The main cause of cellulite is the interaction between adipocytes and collagen fibers in connective tissue. When fat cells swell, they put pressure on the skin, while collagen fibers pull the skin inward, creating the characteristic bumpy appearance.
2. What are the types of cellulite?
There are three distinct forms of this skin condition:
- Adipose cellulite: This is the result of an accumulation of fat and is often associated with excess weight. This form of cellulite is generally soft and painless.
- Aqueous cellulite: This form is due to water retention and circulation problems. It is often more visible and can cause feelings of heaviness.
- Fibrous cellulite: This variant is the oldest and the most difficult to eliminate. It is often hard to the touch and can be painful.
3. Specificity: cellulite localized to the thighs
Orange peel skin on the thighs is especially common among women. This area is often subject to fat accumulation and poor circulation, which favors the appearance of this undesirable phenomenon. The thighs are also an area where the skin is thinner, making these dimples more visible.
V. How to eliminate it?
To reduce the appearance of cellulite, several approaches can be combined:
- Balanced diet: Consuming foods rich in fiber, protein and antioxidants can help reduce fat accumulation and improve skin health.
- Regular exercise: Physical activity helps burn fat, improve circulation and strengthen muscles under the skin.
- Hydration: Drinking enough water helps keep skin hydrated and promotes good circulation.
- Massages and topical treatments: Massages can help improve circulation and reduce fluid retention. Creams and gels with active ingredients may also be beneficial.
- Dietary Supplements: Specific supplements can help improve skin health and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
VI. Food supplements and their role: Which active ingredients to choose for smoother and firmer skin?
Dietary supplements can play an important role in reducing cellulite. Here are some assets to prioritize:
- Collagen: Helps strengthen the structure of the skin and improve its elasticity.
- Vitamin C: Essential for collagen production and to protect the skin against oxidative damage.
- Herbal extracts: Like green tea, grape pomace, and ginkgo biloba, which can help improve circulation and reduce fluid retention.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Help maintain skin hydration and reduce inflammation.
Did you want to knowwhat is cellulite?
Cellulite is a complex condition influenced by many factors, including anatomical structure, hormones, genetics and lifestyle.
Understanding these mechanisms allows us to better target approaches to reduce cellulite.
AtD-LAB Nutricosmeticswe offer premium dietary supplements that, combined with a balanced diet, regular exercise and topical care, can help improve skin health and to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
