Specific Cellulite Treatments
Caffeine creams
Caffeine is widely known to promote the drainage of excess fluid from tissues and increases cellular fat breakdown. These factors alone would recommend it for the treatment of cellulite. These caffeine creams work almost immediately, giving the skin a more smooth appearance. For the creams to be effective, they must be used daily and in a consistent manner. In any case, the results will be modest at best.
See also: Can caffeine reduce cellulite?
Anti-Cellulite products
Diet
While many diets claim to aid in the treatment of cellulite, the truth is that there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. A healthy diet consisting of plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, high fiber, and fish containing omega-3 fat can certainly improve overall health and aid in weight loss which can improve the appearance of cellulite. A nutritious diet is always in your best interest!
Light, laser, and radiofrequency treatments
There are three types of cellulite laser treatments available for consumers. They are laser toning, Vela smooth treatments, and Tri-Active treatments. Laser toning is a device that was originally used to remove wrinkles. Apart from this, it is often used in the treatment of cellulite, especially when it has a similar texture and nature as that of wrinkles. In this laser treatment, both radio waves and laser light are directed beneath the skin's surface. The procedure causes a wound response that encourages collagen production and skin tightening.
The Vela Smooth is a small, handheld cellulite laser treatment device used for cellulite reduction. This device uses a combination of infrared light, radiofrequency, and suction. The light and waves are used to soften fat, and the suction elongates the strands that are fibrous and cause the dimpling appearance of cellulite. The process is also used to stimulate cell metabolism that results in the breaking down of fat. Usually, eight to ten sessions of this process are required to achieve the desired results.
The Tri-Active laser treatment applies three different treatments that can also be used separately. In the first treatment, the lasers are used to increase circulation and break down the fat cells. Secondly, the swelling and burning are reduced by applying a cooling system. The third and final treatment involves massage to improve drainage of the lymphatic system. This is an FDA-approved treatment to reduce cellulite appearance temporarily.
It should be remembered that all of these treatments provide only a temporary improvement in the appearance of cellulite. You should also be mindful of your diet and continue to exercise regularly.
Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is a non-surgical cosmetic medicine treatment. It involves injecting a cocktail of various chemicals (herbs, vitamins, and off-label drugs) into the middle layer of the skin, where it supposedly attacks the cellulite by softening connective tissue, breaking up fat cells, stimulating circulation, and improving drainage. Unfortunately, there is little or no research to back these claims and very little standardization of the different chemicals used. Mesotherapy is usually performed in a series of treatments, and anywhere from 5-10 sessions is considered routine. Each of these treatments costs an average of $150, so cost is certainly a consideration when seeking possible treatments.
Massage therapy
Many spas and salons offer anti-cellulite massage treatments, but their claims of success are doubtful. This type of massage usually employs rollers, shakers, vibration, and suction. While it can achieve short-term smoothening of the skin, the results are temporary.