We’ve all heard the fantastic claims and enthusiastic testimonials for a myriad of sounds-too-good-to-be-true cellulite treatments. I don’t want to break any hearts here, but the truth is that there is no cure for cellulite. While there do exist a handful of legitimate cellulite treatment options that have shown some (albeit limited) success, below is a list of supposed treatments for cellulite which are at best, unproven, and at worst, unsafe.
Mesotherapy / Lipodissolve (aka Injection Lipolysis)
While the internet is filled with anecdotes singing the praises of the results obtained with these treatments, there are just as many horror stories. The above terms, which are often used interchangeably, are used to describe a series of treatments in which hundreds of “micro-injections” are given directly underneath the skin in cellulite-affected areas.
The solution which is injected varies from one practitioner to another, but is often vaguely described as a mix of “vitamins, herbs, and homeopathic medicines”. Lipodissolve differs from mesotherapy mostly in the ingredients that comprise the injected fluid. Instead of the homeopathic concoction used in mesotherapy, lipodissolve uses two substances called phosphatidylcholine and deoxycholate.
Proponents of these techniques claim that the treatments melt fat and “break up” cellulite by improving circulation, and by encouraging lymphatic and venous drainage. Even if this is true, the treatment fails to address the real cause of cellulite, the key to which lies in the connective tissue.
Creams and Lotions
These products work in a variety of ways. Some use natural or chemical irritants to “plump” up the skin temporarily, thereby smoothing the skin’s appearance. Others use topical preparations of varying forms of caffeine. The caffeine is purported to act as a topically applied diuretic to reduce excess water weight in the area. Still others claim to strengthen the epidermis via the action of copper peptides, making cellulite less obvious.
With all of these preparations, the positive effects on the appearance of cellulite are usually negligible and always temporary. Most require twice daily application (often along with massage) to achieve results, which can make this approach too time-consuming (and too expensive) for many women, especially for such a small and temporary return on their investment. It is important to note that there is no scientific data available to support any claims of long-term effectiveness for any of these products.
Herbal and Dietary Supplements
Some supplement manufacturers claim that their products can cure what they call the internal causes of cellulite, such as poor circulation, water retention, and sluggish fat metabolism. However, since the FDA does not regulate herbal supplements, most of these claims are not backed up by any real scientific study results. Therefore, there is not only a question of effectiveness with these products, but also a question of safety.
Massage, Skin Brushing, Wraps, & Masks
While these treatments may feel good and offer a temporary improvement in skin tone and appearance (deeper massage can even help improve muscle tone), there is no scientific evidence to support any claims of long-term results in the fight against cellulite.
Sources:
ASPS Guiding Principles for Mesotherapy/Injection Lipolysis; Consumer Information Statement, American Society of Plastic Surgeons; July 2008
Cellulite: A Review of its Physiology and Treatment; Mathew M. Avram; Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, Volume 6, Issue 4 December 2004
Cellulite: An Update; Press Release, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, August 2003
Interview with Stephen X.Giunta, MD, plastic surgeon, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery International, Alexandria, VA; conducted on April 14, 2009.
