Cellulite is most common among women. Although it is not dangerous, it can certainly affect our appearance and often make us more insecure. The factors of this skin problem are diverse and the treatment is quite difficult, but there are ways that we can camouflage it! Therefore, let’s get to know the factors, symptoms, solutions, and the difference with stretch marks.
Difference between Cellulite and Stretch Marks
These two skin conditions are often considered the same, perhaps because of their similar symptoms. But they are actually different! The first difference can be seen from the shape, cellulite is often wavy and wrinkled while stretch marks or striae are streaks or lines with a reddish-white color on the skin.
Secondly, we can look at the causative factors. Cellulite appears when there are changes in the fat cells under the skin, causing irregular bulges. This fat buildup pushes against the skin and changes in blood circulation can lead to excess fluid buildup in the tissues. In addition, genetic factors also play a role in increasing a person’s risk of developing cellulite. Meanwhile, stretch marks are common in women after childbirth because the skin stretches as the abdomen grows during pregnancy. The risk of this condition can also increase due to hormonal changes and weight fluctuations. However, unlike cellulite, stretch marks are not affected by genetic factors.
Last but not least, we can see the difference by where it is located. Cellulite can appear on different parts of the body depending on the individual’s body condition, often around the abdomen, thighs, hips, and buttocks, and in children or adolescents, it may appear on the face and neck. Stretch marks, on the other hand, are more likely to appear on areas that stretch easily such as the abdomen, upper arms, thighs, and buttocks, with the addition of the breasts occurring during pregnancy.
Why are women more likely to develop cellulite?
We can look at this case in terms of hormonal causation, which is one of the main culprits of cellulite. Hormones, such as estrogen, insulin, thyroid, prolactin and noradrenaline, play an important role in cellulite formation. The hormone estrogen in women functions to regulate body fat storage, ESPECIALLY during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This leads to the accumulation of fat in areas such as the breasts, thighs and buttocks in a fairly short period of time.
For this reason, a woman’s risk of developing cellulite increases when estrogen levels are high, such as during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or taking birth control pills for a long period of time. On the other hand, in men, although the hormone testosterone also plays a role in cellulite production, the risk of cellulite formation is low. Although the chances are slim, it’s not impossible! There are still other contributing factors, so we must continue to take care of our skin to avoid this condition.
Various Causes of Cellulite and Stretch Marks
Apart from hormones, there are several causes of these two skin conditions. Perhaps one of the rumors is that when we scratch our skin a lot, it turns out that this is just a myth, Sereni-Trees! Let’s take a closer look at the differences:
Causes of cellulite:
- Hormonal imbalances or changes
- Poor blood circulation (may be due to lack of body movement such as sitting for long hours)
- Fat accumulation and decreased muscle mass
- Unprotected and long exposure to UV rays and pollution
- Bad habits such as smoking, not eating enough healthy food or drinking alcohol
Stretch marks, on the other hand, are usually caused by contributing factors such as:
- Drastic weight gain or loss over a short period of time (could be due to puberty)
- Hormonal fluctuations or changes in pregnant women
- Increase or decrease in muscle mass
Although both skin conditions are caused by stretching the skin, there are some differences between the causative factors! To be able to deal with it, we should first know what causes it, because this skin condition is rather difficult to get rid of with just regular care.
Difficult to Remove, What’s the Solution?
Cellulite and stretch marks are difficult to get rid of, especially since collagen damage has already occurred. But no worries, there are several treatments that we can try in order to camouflage these skin conditions such as: laser therapy, fractional CO2 laser therapy, microdermabrasion, and cosmetic plastic surgery. These treatments will depend on the severity of the skin condition. As an additional treatment, the dermatologist will also prescribe topical creams and medications such as Tretinoin for masking.
In conclusion, in this situation, healing and camouflaging will not be enough with just a cream or skincare. Advanced treatments will certainly be more effective! We should take precautions beforehand!
The Role of Body Lotion as a Preventive Measure
The use of a gentle body lotion (Serenitree natural body lotion recommended) that moisturizes is very effective at the preventive level. This is because lotion ingredients such as natural vitamin E and shea butter can provide the skin with the hydration and nutrients it needs. Of course, moisturized skin will have a strong skin barrier to fight off any free radicals and not easily “break out”/dry out. In addition, by combining massaging movements while applying lotion, blood circulation will be smoother.
Not only the use of lotion, other preventive measures include maintaining a healthy weight so as not to gain or lose weight drastically. If you want to gain/lose weight, Serenitree recommends doing it regularly and consistently. This will help our skin to get used to it and not “break out”, thus avoiding cellulite/stretch marks. You can do this by eating a healthy balanced diet and exercising moderately. Don’t forget to avoid consuming too much salt!
Last but not least, avoid bad habits such as excessive stress, smoking, drinking alcohol, consuming too much sugar/oil, or wearing tight clothes too often. Remember, Sereni-Trees, we need to stay fit in order to protect our skin from various skin problems. It’s useless to use various skincare or treatments if we don’t take care of our lifestyle! Let’s start the journey to glowing and healthy skin with good habits!