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Among the ingredients that anti-cellulite creams should contain are L-carnitine, retinol, caffeine, among others. How do they work?
The ingredients of cellulite creams have changed over time. So, today, it is possible to find products with interesting effects against this problem. What are the best options?
Well, there are actually several formulas that have positive effects in reducing the appearance of orange peel skin. However, in general, these should be accompanied by good lifestyle habits. If you are interested in trying them, below we reveal the most recommended substances.
Why does cellulite appear?
Cellulite appears when fat cells under the skin grow excessively, causing the fibers to stretch to form cavities. From the outside, this is perceived as irregularities, in the form of depressions or dips.
Of course, the areas in which it usually develops are those in which more fat accumulates, such as the following:
- Buttocks.
- thighs
- Abdomen.
- Hips.
- Arms.
- Calves.
Although this is not an exclusive problem of the female sex, it is estimated that the edematous-fibrosclerotic panniculopathy —as cellulite is also called— affects more than 70% of women.
However, this has nothing to do with age, or even with being overweight, since it can occur equally in people who are young or who are thin.
Its exact cause has not been determined. Still, it is known that hormones that regulate the ability to store fat are largely responsible. Other associated factors are the following:
- sedentary lifestyle
- Circulation problems.
- Consumption of certain foods (which tend to make the problem worse).
- Stress.
- postural habits.
Ingredients that your cellulite creams should contain
To combat cellulite A wide variety of procedures are used; mesotherapy, carboxytherapy, cavitation, radiofrequency and even liposuction. In fact, it is also possible to intervene with drugs, diets, exercise routines and natural treatments.
In particular, creams are recommended as an aid to minimize the hollowed-out appearance of the skin. Some act as stimulants, as they help metabolize fats; others, for their part, are considered inhibitory, since they prevent lipids from being stored.
But what are the best ingredients for these cellulite creams? Then, We detail the most recommended for their interesting effects.
1. L-Carnitine
It is an amino acid found naturally in the body. You also get a bonus when consuming supplements in capsules, syrups or injectables. It is used to burn fat, gain muscle mass or increase sports performance.
Likewise, L-Carnitine is an ingredient in anti-cellulite creams. In this sense, is considered an effective reducerby inducing the fat-burning process when used topically, according to the studies.
2. Retinol
Retinol, in addition to being rich in vitamin A, is considered a powerful antioxidant. A) Yes, neutralizes free radicals that cause damage to skin cells.
Therefore, it is found in products used to prevent the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of premature aging. In addition to this, it is an exfoliant that penetrates the skin to stimulate cell activity, which favors the reduction of cellulite.
3. Caffeine
Caffeine is not only a stimulating substance when consumed as an infusion. Also promotes cell lipolysis by increasing circulation.
In a shared studio in Journal of Cosmetic Science, The application of a cream containing retinol, caffeine and ruscogenin showed significant activity in reducing different parameters related to the appearance of cellulite, such as the following:
- Macrorelief of the skin.
- Dermal and hypodermal structures.
- mechanical characteristics.
- Cutaneous flowmetry.
4. Collagen and hyaluronic acid
The benefits of hyaluronic acid are diverse. Applied in creams, in combination with collagen, it hydrates and nourishes the skin. Thus, Promotes a firmer, smoother appearance.
5. Vitamin E
Vitamin E can provide protection to cell structures due to its antioxidant properties. According to research Regarding its effects, it eliminates free radicals or prevents their formation.
6. Natural bioextracts
Other ingredients that your cellulite creams should contain are the natural extracts of some plants. Among these we have the following options.
- aloe vera: healing and anti-inflammatory.
- ginkgo biloba: it is antioxidant and stimulates circulation.
- Asiatic spark: may protect vascular tissue.
- fisetin and frambione: derived from strawberries and raspberries, help in lipolysis.
- Grapeseed: helps keep the skin affected by cellulite supple.
- Fucus vesiculosis: It is an algae rich in amino acids and trace elements.
- Ruscus aculeatus: stimulates microcirculation and facilitates lymphatic drainage.
Do cellulite creams work?
As can be deduced from the conclusions of the cited investigations, positive results have been observed in topical treatment with cellulite creams. However, when purchasing them, it must be considered that they have the aforementioned substances in their composition.
These are responsible for activating lipolysis and favoring the elimination of accumulated fat. In addition, they stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage. Of course, as with other treatments, consistency is the key to success.
In this sense, it is essential to apply them in the affected area as often as required (Twice a day is usually recommended), making circular movements until they penetrate the skin.
Also, these products will work better if they are complemented with other actions or lifestyle changes. Next, we detail them.
Other measures to combat cellulite
First, all those factors that contribute to the appearance of cellulite must be taken into account. Of course, there are some that we cannot control, such as those related to genetics or hormonal imbalances, which can trigger or aggravate the problem.
But there are conditioning elements that are within our control. This includes a sedentary lifestyle, a high-calorie or high-salt diet, bad habits (such as alcohol consumption), stress, among others.
Therefore, cellulite cream treatments should be combined with exercise, good hydration and a healthy diet, including fresh vegetables and fruits. By the way, processed foods, abundant in sugars or saturated fats, should be avoided.
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