Cellulite
Cellulite causes dimpling of the skin, an ‘orange peel’ or ‘cottage cheese’ like appearance, resulting in aesthetic displeasure to many women. It affects approximately 90% of post pubescent females, specifically in the buttocks and pelvic region, but also often in the lower limbs and abdomen. It is thought that cellulite can result from a range of factors but it is not very well understood.
Cellulite appears due to subcutaneous fat retention within connective tissue. Fibrous branches perpendicular to the skin’s surface separate the fat lobules causing a dimpling effect. Some of the factors that may play a role in cellulite formation include:
- Hormonal: it is believed estrogen plays a role in the development of cellulite along with insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones, and prolactin.
- Lifestyle: inactivity and weight gain may result in cellulite formation, although lean women can also suffer. Smoking, high stress and sitting and standing for long periods have also been linked to cellulite development.
- Genetic: tends to run in families so genetics maybe a big factor in its development. Ageing also contributes as the skin loses its elasticity.
Why MLD (Manual Lymphatic Drainage) works on Cellulite?
The main system in the body for the elimination of fats is the Lymphatic System. If the Lymphatic system is impaired or sluggish (as it may get with age) its ability to remove toxins and fate from the body declines.
