I am all for body positivity, but have to admit that sometimes cellulite can be a real struggle to accept! Regardless of your age or shape the chances are you’ve got at least some cellulite on your thighs, hips, or bum. Many people tell me they’ve tried everything, but nothing has worked. Diet, exercise, miracle creams… nothing seems to smooth their dimpled skin which is what we want when wearing tights and leggings. Or god forbid venture out in a bikini!
What causes it? Why is it so hard to shift? And why are men not cursed in the same way? These are just some of the questions I have been asked. I have the answers and I also have a solution.
What is cellulite?
Everyone has fat cells under their skin. They are clustered together in groups called adipocytes, separated by fibrous strands made of elastin and collagen, which are anchored between your fascia superficialis and your skin. When your fat cells push against your skin, these fibrous strands pull against your skin, resulting in a lumpy appearance. This bumpy, uneven texture is what we refer to as cellulite.
Why do women get the short straw?
It’s thought that 80% - 90% of women have cellulite. And yet only around 10% of men have it. (It’s so unfair!) The reason for this difference lies in the connective tissue in the dermatological layer just below the surface of your skin, and the layer of fat found just below that. “In women, the fat cells and connective tissue in this layer are arranged vertically. If the fat cells protrude into the layer of skin, this gives the appearance of cellulite. In men, the tissue has a criss-cross structure, which may explain why they are less likely to have cellulite than women” (Ref 1).
Female hormones are also believed to play a role in the formation of cellulite; “High-oestrogen states, such as pregnancy, nursing, chronic oral contraceptive use, or hormone replacement therapy in postmenopausal females, appear to exacerbate or worsen the progression of cellulite” (Ref 2).
And it’s a problem that can affect women of any age, even me as a Gen Z. Although, research shows that older “women with high body mass index have the greatest risk of developing (or worsening of) cellulite” (Ref 3).
There is also evidence to suggest a genetic connection to cellulite formation – so if your mum had it, there’s a good chance you will too. The difference, however, is that modern technology means who don't have to accept it like your mum.
Introducing ONDA – your secret weapon to reduce cellulite
ONDA is a fantastic new treatment specially developed to fight cellulite. The technology is so cutting-edge that the DRVICTORIA™ Clinic is the very first clinic in Edinburgh to offer it.
It works by using microwaves, emitted at a special frequency, to pass through your skin to be absorbed by your adipocytes. It causes your enlarged fat cells to rupture, releasing droplets of fat which are then eliminated from your body via your lymphatic system.
As well as rupturing your fat cells, the microwaves also stimulate the production of collagen and elastin in your fibrous strands, making them stretchier. As a result, there is less dimpling to the surface of your skin, making it feel smoother and firmer (#SkinGoals!)
A tried and tested cellulite treatment
Wondering what it feels like?
I put it to the test and I can honestly say the whole experience was quite relaxing. There was definitely no pain (which is usually my clients’ first question!)
If it’s your first time, I’ll begin with a consultation to make sure it’s the best treatment for you, and we’ll answer any questions you might have. It’s important to note that this treatment is not suitable for pregnant ladies or people with an autoimmune disease. It is also not possible to treat any areas that are tattooed.
I’ll cool the surface of your skin before starting with the ONDA microwaves. Once complete, I’ll give the treated area a thorough massage to stimulate your lymphatic system. After the treatment, you may feel the heat intensifying, but it’s not uncomfortable. And your skin may look a little red, but this will go away in just a couple of hours. I’ll give you take home a specially formulated vitamin ACE oil to help heal the area, speed up cell turnover, tighten the skin and leave it feeling smoother.
Remember, the ONDA treatment is not a quick fix. I’ll grade your cellulite from 1 to 4; depending on the severity of your cellulite, and it is recommend you have at least 4 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart, but the higher your cellulite grade, the more treatments you will require. I will then book you in for a treatment review one month after your last treatment to assess the results. You should expect to drop a grade of cellulite over a course.
Below is a comparison of before and after following 2 ONDA treatments spaced 4 weeks apart.
I hope to see further improvement with 2 more treatments.
Here’s how to maximise your results
To get the most out of your treatment, I recommend drinking plenty of water to help your lymphatic system. Regular massages will also help and I’m a big fan of cellulite rollers to stimulate lymphatic system too. Simply sweep one over your skin in the direction of your heart every day before your bath or shower to help boost lymph flow. The added bonus is that this will improve your circulation too. (And guess what? You can either buy one at the clinic, or we’ll throw one in for free if you purchase an ONDA course).
The best thing about the ONDA cellulite treatment is that the results are permanent. Once you destroy the fat cells, they’re gone forever. That said, if you were to put on lots of weight, the fat cells that are left will expand. That’s why it’s so important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to maintain your results. That means don’t smoke, exercise regularly, and eat a balanced diet low in processed foods and high in fresh fruit and vegetables. Do that and you’ll be one step forward in your fight against cellulite!
Toni
Authors experience
Toni has recently undergone extensive training in cellulite reduction, which in addition to her experience as a skin therapist, makes her the go-to person for anyone seeking smoother, firmer, younger looking skin.
References
- Medical News Today, Everything You Need to Know About Cellulite, 2023
- National Library of Medicine, Cellulite: Current Understanding and Treatment, Gabriel, Chan, Caldarella, Wayne, and O’Rorke, 2023
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Structural Gender Dimorphism and the Biomechanics of the Gluteal Subcutaneous Tissue: Implications for the Pathophysiology of Cellulite, Rudolf, Hladik, Hamade, Frank, Kaminer, Hexsel, Gotkin, Sadick, Green and Cotofana, 2019
Resource Links
- Time Magazine, 15 Myths and Facts about Cellulite, Macmillan, 2014
