A recent article in Life Extension’s magazine prompted our investigation into improving cellulite treatment protocols. Much of what follows is from their very stimulating article and gives an insight into the difficulties in addressing this important problem for many women. Scientists have discovered that cellulite arises from a number of age-related physiological changes. Gender differences in hormonally influenced fat deposition as well as effects of the stress hormone cortisol, connective tissue differences in skin between men and women, and poor circulation and lymphatic drainage all compromise skin integrity. As a result, the dermis (the layer of skin beneath the outermost layer) weakens in cellulite-prone areas, paving the way for swollen fat cells to protrude to the surface. UNDERSTANDING CELLULITE Connective Tissue Structure Abnormalities in Cellulite Connective tissue structure in women increases vulnerability to cellulite, with the result that female skin becomes loose and more wrinkled with age. “Cellulite-affected skin demonstrates biomechanical properties of increased laxity in contrast to skin without cellulite,” Gordon H. Sasaki, MD, FACS, a surgeon at the Sasaki Advanced Aesthetic Medical Center in Pasadena, CA, says. Other factors compromise the underlying connective tissue such as the enzyme collagenase that is released before a woman’s menstrual cycle. This enzyme breaks down collagen, which is a key structural protein within connective tissues. Fibrous tissue, similar to that seen with scarring, may fill in the gaps caused by degraded collagen. This results in the formation of fibrotic stiff bands that can worsen the appearance of cellulite. “Cellulite is a disease of the connective tissue initiated by cyclic hormones of the menstrual cycle,” Dr. Pugliese says. “The characteristic undulating surface one sees with cellulite is the product of extensive connective tissue destruction.” Poor Circulation Aggravates Cellulite As well as connective tissue abnormalities, poor circulation and lymph drainage can also aggravate cellulite. Fat, or adipose tissue, is relatively rich in blood vessels. Decreased blood flow, swelling from fluid accumulation (edema), and local inflammation can aggravate the female propensity to skin looseness and hasten the development of cellulite through a domino effect. When small blood vessels become fragile, they leak excess fluid that accumulates in the compartments between the fat chambers. This effect increases pressure within the tissues, resulting in poor lymphatic drainage. As excess fluid is retained in dermal tissues, fat globules cluster together and inhibit venous return.
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