Cellulite: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Cellulite affects 80 to 90% of women after puberty. Although it is not a disease, it is often perceived as a major aesthetic problem and can significantly impact quality of life. Cellulite is characterized by an irregular skin appearance, described as 1orange peel 7 or 1cottage cheese7, and is mainly located on the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and hips. The irregular texture of the skin is accentuated when standing or when pinching the skin.

Formation of Cellulite

Cellulite results from structural changes in the subcutaneous tissue. The skin contains fibrous septa, bands of connective tissue linking the dermis to the underlying muscle. In women, these septa are oriented vertically, allowing fat lobules to protrude into the dermis, forming visible depressions. In contrast, in men, these septa are inclined at 456 and intersect, offering better stability and limiting the appearance of cellulite. The formation of cellulite also involves an imbalance of biomechanical forces: adipocytes exert outward pressure while the septa pull the skin inward. This interaction, amplified by hormonal, genetic, or lifestyle factors, leads to the characteristic dimpling appearance. Cellulite can be classified into several types according to its appearance and origin: 1Adipose7: associated with fat accumulation. 1Edematous7: caused by water retention due to poor lymphatic circulation. 1Fibrous7: characterized by hard and irregular skin due to hardening of the fibrous septa.

Risk Factors

1Hormones7: Estrogens play a central role in promoting water retention, fat accumulation, and weakening of the septa. 1Genetics7: familial predisposition. 1Age7: loss of skin elasticity with aging. 1Lifestyle7: high-sugar and fat-rich diet, sedentary lifestyle, alcohol or tobacco consumption. 1Pregnancy7: hormonal fluctuations and weight gain. 1Inflammation7: Chronic inflammation can contribute to the hardening of the septa.

Treatments

1Manual or Assisted Massage (LPG Endermologie)7: promotes lymphatic drainage and improves circulation. 1Acoustic Waves7: stimulate microcirculation and collagen synthesis. 1Radiofrequency (RF)7: stimulates collagen production to firm the skin. 1Lasers and Lights7: penetrate the dermis to remodel collagen and improve microcirculation. 1Subcision7: cutting septa to release the skin and smooth its surface. 1Collagenase7: enzyme injections to degrade septa.

Prevention

Natural treatments for cellulite mainly include topical creams and plant-based supplements, which aim to improve skin appearance and support circulatory functions. Creams containing 1caffeine7 and 1retinol7 are particularly popular for their effects on lipolysis, microcirculation, and thickening of the dermis. Additionally, plant-based supplements such as those with 1Red Vine7, 1Ginkgo biloba7, or 1Centella asiatica7, can improve blood circulation and reduce local inflammation, mechanisms often related to the appearance of cellulite. Although available clinical data is limited, these natural solutions offer an interesting complement in a comprehensive approach to cellulite management, especially in combination with lifestyle changes.