Breaking news: Cellulite, the mystical evil haunting thighs, is just... fat! Shocking, right? But fear not, for diets and gadgets promising cellulite's demise continue their noble quest to conquer imaginary foes. Meanwhile, science chuckles at the cellulite circus. Cellulite isn't just a word; it's a loaded term that has transformed the way women perceive their bodies. In the past, there was no such thing as cellulite—it was simply subcutaneous fat and fibrous tissue beneath the skin, a natural part of human anatomy. However, around 50 years ago, Vogue introduced "cellulite" into mainstream vocabulary, sparking a cultural shift in how women viewed their bodies. This term, initially a medical term for inflammation or infection in cells or tissues, took on a new meaning in the beauty and wellness industry. French beauty culture, booming after the war, played a significant role in shaping ideals of femininity. The rise of beauty institutes and the medicalization of beauty blurred the lines between science, medicine, and aesthetics. Women, gaining independence and visibility, were targeted by marketing that pathologized normal body features like cellulite.

Over time, cellulite became synonymous with female imperfection, leading to a multi-billion-dollar industry of anti-cellulite treatments. Despite little evidence of their effectiveness, these treatments continue to thrive, fueling a narrative of body dissatisfaction among women. The myth of cellulite persists, ingrained in societal perceptions of beauty and self-worth. In essence, cellulite is a construct—a term created to sell products and perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards. It's a reminder of how deeply ingrained societal expectations can influence how we perceive ourselves, highlighting the ongoing struggle for self-acceptance in a world obsessed with appearances.

Why do men not have cellulite? 

Cellulite's gender bias towards females finds its roots in anatomical variances. Fibrous septa, crucial in cellulite's formation, display distinct orientations and strengths in males and females. Males possess denser septa angled differently, offering greater structural support against cellulite's appearance. This difference extends to fat lobules, where males have more numerous and smaller lobules, contributing to a smoother skin appearance. The biomechanical advantages males enjoy are attributed to their fibrous network's robustness and orientation, making them less prone to cellulite manifestation even in obesity cases.

Oestrogen, a hormone in women, plays a big role in cellulite. When oestrogen levels are high, like during pregnancy, breastfeeding, taking birth control pills, or hormone therapy after menopause, cellulite can get worse. This happens because oestrogen affects how fat is stored and how tissues are structured. In women, cellulite is more common due to differences in how their tissues are arranged compared to men. Men have a different setup in their tissues that makes them less likely to get cellulite. So, oestrogen and the way women's bodies are built contribute to why cellulite shows up more in women.

Can you treat cellulite?

Various methods are explored to address cellulite, ranging from oral supplements like fish oil and borage oil, believed to assist due to their antioxidants, to advanced therapies such as RF and laser treatments. These treatments aim to stimulate collagen, alter fat distribution, and improve skin texture. However, their efficacy lacks consistent FDA validation, and they may result in bruising, swelling, or discomfort. While massage enhances lymphatic drainage, it can also cause bruising. Surgical procedures like subcision and injectables like collagenase and fillers are alternatives, but their long-term effects and safety remain under study. Overall, the effectiveness, safety, and sustainability of cellulite treatments vary, emphasising the importance of thorough research and consideration before opting for any specific approach. Additionally, it's essential to recognize that women's bodies are naturally diverse and perfect as they are, without the need for treatments to conform to societal beauty standards.

Do you need to treat cellulite? 

Cellulite is often mistakenly attributed to toxins in the body, a myth perpetuated by some over-the-counter products. In reality, cellulite results from fat pushing through collagen fibres under the skin, primarily in areas like the buttocks and thighs. Despite ongoing research, there's currently no definitive permanent solution for cellulite. In reality, it stems from fat pushing through collagen fibres, influenced by factors like hormones, exercise, and genetics. While lifestyle changes can manage it, the pursuit of perfect skin seems trivial amidst larger battles for women's rights and equality.

Cellulite isn't a medical condition; it's simply fat beneath the skin. While some may choose to address it for personal reasons, it's crucial to understand that cellulite isn't a health concern but rather a beauty consideration. Women shouldn't feel pressured to worry about cellulite, as it's a natural part of the body's composition and doesn't signify any health problems.

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References:

The Washington Post | National Library of Medicine | Refinery 29 | Time | Inner Power Better Life | Skin MD

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