Often due to a malfunction in the microcirculation, water cellulite gives the skin an irregular appearance, deemed unattractive. Let's explore together what water cellulite is and some tips to overcome it.
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Water-based Cellulite: How to Get Rid of It?
Summary
- Water-based Cellulite: What are we talking about?
- The causes of water-based cellulite
- Solutions to combat water-based cellulite
- Sources
Published March 1, 2023,
updated on July 31, 2024,
by
Pauline, Head of Scientific Communication
—
5 min read
Water-based Cellulite: What are we talking about?
Water-based cellulite is caused by water retention in the skin tissues of the hypodermis which leads to swelling and edema. Forming a bump on the skin (dimple), it is soft but not painful to the touch.
As a reminder, the skin is composed of three main layers: the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis. The epidermis, the superficial part, plays a protective role and is covered by the hydrolipidic film. The dermis is thick and elastic. It notably contains the sebaceous glands that produce sebum. Finally, the hypodermis is the deepest layer of the skin. Predominantly composed of adipose cells, it serves as an energy reserve and plays a role in thermal insulation. The adipose cells are held together by collagen fibers.
The causes of water-based cellulite.
Water-based cellulite is often located in the lower limbs (thighs, calves, and ankles). It is primarily caused by a dysfunction in the venous and lymphatic circulations. The adipocytes slow down the elimination of water and toxins, which stagnate in the connective tissue and give the skin a dimpled appearance, which then begins to deform. Individuals affected by cellulite with water retention often complain of heavy legs.
Wearing clothing or shoes that are too tight can potentially worsen poor circulation, as can consuming too much salt. Indeed, when tissues are highly concentrated with salt, they attract and retain water, which limits its evacuation. Genetics can also be responsible for the development of water cellulite: the strength of veins and lymphatic vessels, closely linked to the efficiency of circulation, is partly dependent on our genetic heritage. Finally, an imbalance between the levels of estrogen and progesterone, female hormones, can be responsible for an increase in the permeability of blood capillaries. This results in an abnormal flow towards the adipose tissues, which promotes the accumulation of water in the hypodermis.
Solutions to combat water-based cellulite.
There are several solutions to prevent the onset of water cellulite or to reduce its appearance.
Certain daily actions.
Certain daily habits or practices help prevent the onset of water cellulite and limit its development.
Adopt a balanced diet : as previously mentioned, a diet too high in salt promotes the appearance of cellulite. To prevent it, maintain a varied diet and drink plenty of water.
Maintaining regular physical activity : aquatic sports are particularly recommended against water retention. Practiced in cold water, they promote better blood circulation. Moreover, water has a massaging effect on the skin.
Massages : Performing a kneading and rolling massage can stimulate blood circulation and has a draining effect. The application of a toning treatment, like our caffeine body cream or our green coffee body scrub, complements its action and helps to smooth and firm the skin. The caffeine in particular has a decongesting and draining power and is capable of improving blood and lymphatic circulation. This property is directly related to its ability to eliminate fats and toxins. The accumulation of these in the blood can lead to a loss of efficiency in microcirculation and can promote the emergence of cellulite.
Aesthetic medicine.
When aqueous cellulite is established, it is possible to turn to certain aesthetic medicine techniques to reduce its appearance.
Shock Waves : These acoustic waves serve to stimulate and enhance blood and lymphatic circulation. After the session, one may experience slight pain and irritation, which will gradually fade in the following days. However, it is not recommended for individuals with a pacemaker and pregnant women to use shock waves.
Mesotherapy : This technique involves the injection of active ingredients (silicon, butcher's broom) that possess draining properties. Silicon, in particular, helps to strengthen the elasticity and tone of the vessels in order to stimulate venous return and microcirculation. After the injection, a small reactive edema or skin redness may sometimes be observed. These are normal reactions that spontaneously disappear after a few hours or days.
Sources:
RAWLINGS A. Cellulite and its treatment. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2006).
HERMAN A. & al. Mechanisms of Action of Caffeine and its Use in Cosmetics. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology Skin Pharmacology and Physiology (2013).
SADICK N. Treatment for cellulite. International Journal of Women's Dermatology (2018).
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