Research has shown that between 80 to 90 percent of women experience cellulite at some point in their lives, regardless of weight. Even A-list celebs like Victoria Beckham and Cheryl Cole are not spared, and we’re pretty sure most people would get rid of it if they could. Here’s how and why it forms, and some top treatments to reduce cellulite or ‘orange peel skin’ as it’s also known.
What, how and why?
Cellulite occurs when the layer of fat beneath the skin pushes against the connective tissue and bulges, resulting in dimples and lumps appearing on the skin. Hormonal changes is one major cause for it – a dip in oestrogen levels often leads to enlarged fat cells and circulatory pattern changes, which reduces collagen production. For most ladies, the risk of developing cellulite increases with age, and peaks near menopause. Genetic and lifestyle factors also play a part in its formation.
While cellulite can affect both men and women, it’s more common in females because of our physiology. “Genetically, the fat lobules and fibrous septae are arranged differently in women compared to men, which makes them more susceptible to cellulite formation as they age or gain weight,” says Dr Ivan Puah, Medical Director at Amaris B. Clinic.
What are the options?
It’s easy to get lost in the sea of cellulite reduction treatments on the market, especially when many of them overpromise and under-deliver. One tip is to set your expectations straight – it’s really impossible to zap out all your cellulite in just one sitting!
As cellulite develops when fat and skin interacts, one way is to target the fat cells through cryolipolysis. Also known as fat freezing, this non-invasive system delivers precise and controlled cooling that gently and effectively targets and freezes away the fat cells underneath the skin, while leaving the treated skin unaffected. The fat cells crystallise and die, and the body naturally eliminates them. However, this isn’t the best solution as it only removes unwanted fat. “This treatment can only freeze fat, but it may not improve the adhesions and tension amongst the fibrous tissue. So, it’s less useful as a cellulite treatment,” Dr Puah explains.
Another option he suggests is VASER Lipo, which uses ultrasound wave energy to eliminate fat while stimulating collagen production gently. “This procedure can remove fat effectively and break up adhesions that form dimpling and cellulite. When combined with skin tightening treatments such as Ultherapy, cellulite can be improved and treated.”
For something less invasive, try HYPOXI, a personalised programme that pairs an advanced vacuum and compression technology with healthy nutrition and fitness. Developed by Austrian sports scientist Dr Norbert Egger, the patented technology targets cellulite by stimulating the body’s lymphatic system, connective tissue and micro-blood circulation while burning fat. Studies have shown that it’s up to three times more effective at targeted fat burning than regular exercise! On top of that, each session takes 50 minutes, making it the perfect lunchtime treatment. The recommendation is to go two to three times a week to see results, and each package is generally 12 sessions.
Don’t miss
First-timers can try HYPOXI at a special price of $38 (usually $216)! You’ll get a consultation, as well as a fat-loss and skin-training session.
Written in collaboration with:
HYPOXI Singapore
9127 8761 | hello@hypoxisingapore.sg
hypoxisingapore.sg
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Anthia Chng
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