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Cellulite

This patient information on Cellulite is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida.  This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

What is it?    Cellulite sometimes called "cottage cheese skin" is a common finding in women. The skin of the hips and thighs appear to have a cottage cheese or orange peel look to the surface.  The condition is pretty much limited to women.  Although more noticeable in those overweight, it can occur in thin individuals as well.

What causes it?     It is believed that the fat just under the skin is organized differently in women verses men.  In women, the fat chambers are large and vertical, with men they are smaller and in a more diagonal pattern.  It is thought that cellulite occurs when fat cells swell and occlude circulation and lymphatic drainage.  This leads to swelling causing fibrous strands of connective tissue, attached to the skin, to pull down creating  puckers in the skin.

Is it dangerous?     Cellulite is a harmless disorder. It is not related to cancer and it does not involve internal organs.

Can it be cured?    There is no cure for cellulite.  There are many treatments available but there is not any one standout therapy at this time.  I believe most treatments do not provide any permanent improvement, but some may provide temporary superficial smoothing.  If you are going to try a product I would suggest Cellex Body Smoothing Lotion.  It contains L ascorbic acid which is a good antioxidant for your skin, so you will have some benefits regardless of how the cellulite responds.

Will it spread?     Cellulite is seen mostly on the hips and thighs but other areas can be involved.

Is it contagious?    Cellulite is not contagious and you can not "catch it" from anyone.

© John L. Meisenheimer, M.D.  2004                                   WWW.OrlandoSkinDoc.com

Last modified: 08/27/06