What about cellulite cream and cellulite lotion?
The number of products on the open market is staggeringly large. The effectiveness of each individual cream is relatively unknown, despite the growing demand for such products. Be warned that many cellulite creams are categorized as “cosmetics” and not medical treatments, which are regulated by advisory boards, such as the FDA. This means that the promises these cellulite creams make on their packaging do not have scientific evidence to support their claims, and may not be true whatsoever. However, if all you need is to reduce your appearance of cellulite for a special occasion and are not concerned about the short duration this treatment provides, then cellulite creams are a viable, relatively quick and inexpensive option.
Mostly, the cellulite creams are applied topically, directly on the individual’s skin, temporarily giving the illusion for a few hours that the skin holds a smoother, less dimpled appearance. Thereby, if you stop applying the cream, the bumpy, unslightly cellulite returns. In comparison to some of the other possible treatments, topical creams are a relatively inexpensive choice. However, these creams are usually 3-4 times over the price of a regular moisturizer.
If you do choose this option, then to attain the best results from your cellulite cream, it is usually recommended to apply the cream at nighttime when your skin is more permeable and will more likely stimulate any active. Below are some of the key terms you should know when thinking of using any topical cellulite creams.
1. Aminophylline -- best known for its medicinal use for the treatment of asthma,where it is taken to relax the lungs. Many cellulite creams contain aminophylline, which is a derivative of the active ingredient theophyllinem to promote relaxation of certain types of muscles. Although proponents claims that aminophylline can be used to break down fat cells, recent studies indicate that this substance does not enter the bloodstream, and therefore cannot break down fat cells. Moreover, be aware that using cream containing aminophylline, you must keep it away from heat sources and use it quickly.
2. Retinoids -- These are vitamin A derivatives and often used in wrinkle treatment creams. It can be used, in certain concentrations, to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles and roughness of facial skin by improving the thickness of the epidermis and improving circulation to the skin. Again, however, no scientific studies firmly establish any capabilities in reducing cellulite. Caveat when using a retinol-based cream it is important to apply only at night as retinol is destroyed by exposure to light.
3. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) --Lactic acid and Glycolic acid are found in plants and certain foods like citrus fruits, apples, grapes, tomatoes, apricots and sour milk. In lower concentrations, AHAs can act as exfoliators, accelerating the removal of the superficial layer of dead cells, increasing the cell turnover rate, and essentially thinning the outer layer of the skin. At this time no studies have been published on AHAs as an effective treatment for cellulite.
4. Caffeine --Caffeine is also used as an ingredient in cellulite creams. There is currently no independent research showing that caffeine is successful in getting rid of cellulite, nor is there any research pointing to how much caffeine is needed to produce results.
