The Reality about Cellulite and Stretch Marks

By Muaaza Essop

Bismillah

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What is cellulite?

Cellulite is a change in the skin’s appearance, giving it a dimpled or an orange, peeled effect. This is when fat tissue herniates through the connective tissue above it, causing skin a dimpling effect. Why does it appear more frequently in women than in men? This is because female skin is thinner and less porous, thus making it more noticeable.

Almost 85% of adult women have cellulite, and it is common to all body types. While being overweight can accelerate its appearance, even those who are not over weight can experience it. Common areas affected are thighs, gluts, belly and even arms.

To help reduce its appearance, the most effective ways are through diet and exercise.

Machine therapy and certain cosmetic products containing retinol (vitamin A) and caffeine are available on the market, though most advise that they only serve as temporary and expensive ways of reducing the appearance and never eliminating the stretch marks.

Remedies

Consume less sugar. Sugar gets stored in fat cells and causes skin to expand. A maximum of 6 teaspoons a day would benefit. Consume less salt, as this causes fluid retention, accentuating the appearance of cellulite.

Have two teaspoons of flaxseed oil daily, over cereal. It stimulates collagen growth which is a big component of connective tissue. Hydrate! Drink 8-10 glasses of water a day. Eat food with high water content like melons, cucumbers, and leafy greens. Tomato paste, rather than freshly cut tomatoes, contains lycopene which helps to reduce UV sun damage as well as prevents collagen breakdown.

Exercise minimizes cellulite, and helps keep stress levels down.

At the point where active changes cannot be made, the best way is to change ones perspective, and accept it. The most attractive women are those who practice healthy self-perception, carry themselves with confidence, and exude positive energy.

And Stretch Marks?

80% of women have them. Stretch marks, also called striea, occur when the skin is subjected to progressive stretching, causing tears linearly in the dermal tissue. The scars that form are stretch marks. The tendency for these scars to form may be genetic but the extent varies depending on what you do. One may experience itchiness due to skin actually tearing and cracking.

Instances when this occurs are during puberty, pregnancy or extreme weight gain or loss. Scars and stretch marks are healthy and normal skin reactions, but they can be unsightly. While no topical treatment can completely remove scarring at this time, there are some options that reduce redness, or decrease the appearance of white lines and improve skin tone.

Certain laser treatments are available as non-invasive means to reduce the appearance of marks. Creams rich in retinol (Vitamin A) can be applied. But keeping skin hydrated and eating well can help reduce the risk of stretch marks. The use of olive oil and coconut oil, untreated by chemicals, contributes to skin suppleness. Olive oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter are wonderful ways to increase skins suppleness and moisture. Olive oils can help potentially reduce the appearance of these marks. Applying juiced wheat grass or lemon juice promote and reduce pigment and discoloration.

More than anything, a positive attitude towards oneself, a healthy attitude towards exercise, a healthier diet and loving your body for the beauty that it is, is a sure way to become a more comfortable you.

Have a look at these sources.

· Cellulite, What Can we Really Do - http://amanda-russell.com/videos/food-and-life/cellulite-what-can-we-really-do/

· www.thedoctorstv.com

· www.doctoroz.com



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Posted in: Beauty,Health,Muazza,skin care