Often due to a malfunction in the microcirculation, aqueous cellulite gives the skin an irregular appearance, deemed unattractive. Let's discover together what aqueous 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, Chemical Engineer
—
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 oedema. 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, has 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 made up of adipose cells, it serves as an energy reserve and plays a role in thermal insulation. The adipose cells are held together by collagen fibres.
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 exacerbate poor circulation, as can a high salt intake. 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 oestrogen 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, promoting 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.
Some daily actions or practices help to 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 : water sports are particularly recommended against water retention. Practised in cold water, they promote better blood circulation. Furthermore, water has a massaging effect on the skin.
Massages : performing a kneading and rolling technique stimulates 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 linked 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 has set in, it is possible to turn to certain aesthetic medicine techniques to reduce its appearance.
Shockwaves : these acoustic waves help to stimulate and improve blood and lymphatic circulation. After the session, it is possible to experience slight pain and irritation, which will gradually fade in the following days. However, it is not recommended for people with a pacemaker and pregnant women to use shockwaves.
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 oedema 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 (2013).
SADICK N. Treatment for cellulite. International Journal of Women's Dermatology (2018).
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