Despite its high prevalence, cellulite continues to be treated, in many cases, as a merely aesthetic problem.
However, behind its visible appearance of characteristic dimples, it hides a multifactorial alteration of subcutaneous tissue, conditioned by hormonal factorscirculatory, genetic and lifestyle.
The most accepted classification distinguishes Three types of cellulite: compact, soft and edematous.
Identifying precisely which predominates in each case is the first step towards effective treatment to alleviate one of the most common and feared skin problems.
Cellulite: an aesthetic condition with deep roots in female biology
It is estimated that between 85% and 95% of women develop some degree of cellulite after puberty, which shows their direct link with the hormonal particularities of the female body.
Cellulite, whose medical name is gynecoid lipodystrophy, is characterized by an irregular accumulation of fat, liquids and toxins in the hypodermis, which generates a visible alteration on the skin surface.
Although it may be present in thin or good physical condition, it is usually aggravated with sedentary lifestyle, hormonal changes, fluid retention and unbalanced diet.
Identify the type of cellulite
The most accepted classification distinguishes three types of cellulite: compact, soft and edematous. Identifying precisely which predominates in each case is the first step towards effective treatment.
- Compact or hard cellulite It appears even in young women with good physical form. It is firm, sometimes painful to the touch and is usually located on thighs, cartridges and buttocks. When compressing the skin between the fingers, hard nodules can be noticed, such as small subcutaneous balls.
- Soft cellulite It mainly affects women over 40, with low physical activity or who have experienced significant weight fluctuations. It is easily visible, moves when walking and presents a spongy texture. It is usually located in abdomen, arms, thighs and back, and is often associated with circulatory problems such as varicose veins or sensation of legs in the legs.
- Finally, edematous cellulite is the most difficult to treat And also the least common. Its origin is linked to an alteration of lymphatic circulation, which produces fluid retention, inflammation and pain pain.
The medical-aesthetic approach: beyond the superficial
From the clinical point of view, the most effective treatments are those that combine physical therapy, hormonal treatment when necessary, and nutritional education. There are no miraculous solutions or universal treatments: the key is in personalized diagnosis and comprehensive approach.
Specialist Marta García insists on this idea: “Cellulite is not erased with creams or isolated sessions. It must be treated as a manifestation of something deeper: dysfunctional habits, hormonal or lymphatic imbalances. The success of the treatment lies in the patient’s commitment and in constancy. ”
Prevention, habits and the role of female physiology
The high incidence of cellulite in women has an anatomical and hormonal explanation. In the female body, the collagen fibers in the hypodermis are arranged vertically, which favors the passage of fatty accumulations towards the surface.
In addition, female hormones such as estrogen and progesterone promote fluid retention and fat storage, especially in buttocks, thighs and abdomen. To this is added the impact of sedentary lifestyle, excessive salt or sugars, tobacco and lack of hydration.
Cellulite should not remain perceived as an aesthetic defect without relevance. Understanding its complexity, its physiology and its causes is the first step to fight it effectively.
Identifying the type of cellulite, adopting healthy habits and choosing treatments that act in the deep layers of subcutaneous tissue, are key factors to achieve a visible and, above all, sustainable improvement. Because beyond aesthetics, it is also about health, well -being and body self -knowledge.