It is described as the dimpling of the skin which is a result of protrusion of subcutaneous fat into the dermis which creates an undulating dermal-subcutaneous fat junction adipose tissue. More than 150 years ago this term originated in France. Orange peel syndrome, mattress phenomenon, hail damage and cottage cheese skin are descriptive names for cellulite. The synonyms for cellulite are adiposis edematosa, dermapanniculosis deformans, gynoid lipodystrophy and status protrusus cutis. It should in no way be confused with cellulites which is an infection of the skin and its underlying connective tissue.

There are two forms of cellulite – Hard cellulite and Soft Cellulite. Hard Cellulite generally occurs in the bodies of athletes, dancers or runners and it is harder to get rid of it as it attaches directly to the muscle tissue. Soft cellulite strikes larger areas of the body and often sags from the body and is not readily attached to the muscle. Hard cellulite is not as visible as Soft cellulite.

Around 85% to 98% of post pubescent females display some degree of cellulite. It is found in woman of all races but is more common in Caucasian females as compared to Asian females. It has hormonal component to its presentation. It is very rarely found in males. Males suffering from androgen deficient states such as Klinefelter’s syndrome, hypogonadism, post castration states and patients receiving estrogen therapy for prostate cancer. It is not necessary that overweight people suffer from Cellulite, underweight and average people also tend to suffer from cellulite.

There are no supplements which have been approved for reducing cellulite. Liposuction cannot reduce cellulite nor can dieting but a balanced diet, drinking and exercising helps. One can fight cellulite or at least the appearance of cellulite. The treatment of cellulite is an ongoing process and it should be incorporated in the daily beauty regimen for consistent and lasting reduction in its appearance. Most treatments will last upto a few months, some less, therefore treatment should be repeated.

Cardiovascular exercises must be undertaken for reducing cellulite as it helps in loosening fat and increasing circulation which also helps in the reduction of cellulite. Two ten minute bouts of cardiovascular exercise per day will be useful in order to get started with burning fat. There are other external treatment options which might include topical treatments, Endermologie, Intense Pulse Light, massage and Velasmooth. Velasmooth is the first FDA approved cellulite reduction treatment.  

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