What is cellulite: Understanding its formation and causes

The skin is composed of three main layers:

• the epidermis (outer layer)
• the dermis (intermediate layer)
• the hypodermis (subcutaneous layer).

The hypodermis contains fat cells (adipocytes) and connective tissue.

In women, fat cells and collagen fibers are arranged vertically.

When adipocytes increase in size, they push towards the surface of the skin, while collagen fibers pull the skin down, creating the bumpy appearance of cellulite.

Also read: collagen and cellulite

The anatomy of connective tissue and subcutaneous fat is essential for understanding the formation of cellulite. 

Here is a detailed description of these components:

In the context of cellulite, the interaction between connective tissue and subcutaneous fat is crucial. 

The collagen fibers of the connective tissue form a kind of network that compartments the adipocytes into lobules. 

When adipocytes swell due to a buildup of fats, they exert outward pressure on the skin, while collagen fibers pull the skin inward. 

This interaction causes the appearance of the bumps and dimples characteristic of cellulite.

Moreover, the quality and arrangement of collagen fibers can vary among individuals, thereby influencing susceptibility to developing cellulite. 

Hormonal, genetic factors and aging can also alter the structure of connective tissue, affecting the firmness and elasticity of the skin.

In summary, connective tissue and subcutaneous fat play interdependent roles in the formation of cellulite, where the expansion of adipocytes and the structure of collagen fibers create the dimpled appearance of the skin.

Let's now explore in more detail all the factors contributing to cellulite.

The accumulation of subcutaneous fat is a central factor in the development of cellulite. 

Cellulite forms when fat cells located under the skin increase in size and number. These fat cells, or adipocytes, are found in compartments separated by collagen fibers. 

When adipocytes swell due to an excess of fats, they push against the skin, while collagen fibers pull the skin downward, creating an uneven and bumpy surface.

This expansion of fat cells also puts pressure on nearby blood and lymphatic vessels, worsening circulation in the affected area. 

Poor circulation, in turn, slows down the elimination of waste and toxins, which can cause local inflammation and water retention, further accentuating the appearance of cellulite. 

In summary, the accumulation of subcutaneous fat contributes to the formation of cellulite by creating bumps under the skin and disrupting circulation, which enhances the characteristic dimpled appearance of this condition.

Poor blood and lymphatic circulation can lead to an accumulation of fluid and toxins in the tissues, worsening the appearance of cellulite.

Blood circulation is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to cells, as well as for removing metabolic waste.

When circulation is insufficient, skin cells and fat cells receive less oxygen and nutrients, which can slow down fat metabolism and promote their accumulation.

Meanwhile, the lymphatic system is responsible for draining fluids and toxins.

Poor lymphatic circulation can lead to water retention and a buildup of toxins in the tissues, causing inflammation and swelling. Water retention increases pressure on adipocytes and collagen fibers, contributing to the "orange peel" effect.

These conditions create an environment conducive to the expansion of fat cells and the formation of fibrosis, making the skin more rigid and less able to maintain a smooth appearance.

In summary, poor blood and lymphatic circulation contributes to the formation and worsening of cellulite by promoting the accumulation of fats and toxins, as well as disrupting the water balance of the tissues.

The decrease in collagen has a significant impact on cellulite due to the structure and function of collagen in the skin. 

Collagen is an essential protein that gives the skin its firmness and elasticity. 

When collagen production decreases, usually with age or due to environmental factors such as poor diet or excessive sun exposure, the skin loses its firmness and becomes looser. 

This loss of firmness allows subcutaneous fat cells to more easily push through weakened collagen fibers, thus creating the characteristic appearance of bumps and dimples of cellulite. 

In other words, a decrease in collagen weakens the skin's structure, making the appearance of cellulite easier.

Hormones, particularly estrogens, play a crucial role in the development of cellulite. 

Estrogens can influence fat distribution, blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, and collagen production. 

For example, a decrease in estrogen levels, as occurs during menopause, can lead to reduced blood flow in fat storage areas, thereby decreasing collagen production and tissue regeneration. 

This can contribute to the accumulation of fats and fluids, exacerbating the appearance of cellulite.

Genetics also plays an important role in the susceptibility to develop cellulite. 

Genes can influence fat distribution, the structure of the skin and connective tissues, basal metabolism, and hormonal response. 

If you have family members who have cellulite, there is a good chance that you will develop it too.

• Diet: A diet rich in fats, sugars, and salt can contribute to fat accumulation and water retention, thereby worsening cellulite. An unbalanced diet can also lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients for skin health, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

• Physical activity: Lack of physical exercise can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and an accumulation of fat, which can accentuate the appearance of cellulite. Regular exercise helps burn fat, improve blood circulation, and strengthen the muscles under the skin, thereby reducing the visibility of cellulite.

• Hydration: Insufficient hydration can make the skin less elastic and more prone to showing signs of cellulite. Drinking enough water helps keep the skin hydrated and promotes good blood and lymphatic circulation.

• Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking reduces blood circulation and degrades collagen and elastin, two key components for firm skin. Alcohol, for its part, can cause water retention and toxin deposits in the tissues, worsening cellulite.

Dietary supplements can play an important role in reducing cellulite. Here are some active ingredients to prioritize:

• Collagen: Helps strengthen the skin's structure and improve its elasticity.

• Vitamin C: Essential for collagen production and for protecting the skin against oxidative damage.

• Plant extracts: Like green tea, grape marc, and ginkgo biloba, which can help improve circulation and reduce water retention.

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Help maintain skin hydration and reduce inflammation.

You wanted to know what cellulite is?

Cellulite is a complex condition influenced by many factors, including anatomical structure, hormones, genetics, and lifestyle.

Understanding these mechanisms allows for better targeting of approaches to reduce cellulite.

At D-LAB Nutricosmetics, we offer premium dietary supplements that, combined with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and topical care, can help improve skin health and reduce the appearance of cellulite.