Incorporating the CSN Cellulite Gel into the CSN Weightloss Program may assist with the reduction in the appearance of cellulite. The formulation assists with the breakdown of areas of stored fat while also restoring the structure and integrity of the skin cells. The result is a smother, more toned appearance of the skin in the affected areas.

Cellulite is a condition in which the skin has a dimpled appearance. It usually affects the buttocks and thighs but can also occur in other areas. Cellulite occurs when fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin. Between 80 and 90 percent of women may experience cellulite at some point in their lives.

A cellulite severity scale, published in 2009, ranks the condition using three grades:

• Grade 1, or mild: There is an “orange-peel" appearance, with between 1 and 4 superficial depressions, and a slightly “draped" or sagging appearance to the skin.
• Grade 2, or moderate: There are between five and nine medium-depth depressions, a “cottage cheese" appearance, and the skin appears moderately draped.
• Grade 3, or severe: There is a “mattress" appearance, with 10 or more deep depressions, and the skin is severely draped.

The exact cause of cellulite is unknown, but it appears to result from an interaction between the connective tissue in the dermatological layer that lies below the surface of the skin, and the layer of fat that is just below it. In women, the fat cells and connective tissue in this layer are arranged vertically. If the fat cells protrude into the layer of skin, this gives the appearance of cellulite. In men, the tissue has a criss-cross structure, which may explain why are less likely to have cellulite than women.

Hormonal factors and age

Hormones likely play an important role in cellulite development. Estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones, and prolactin are part of the cellulite production process. One theory is that as estrogen in women decreases in the approach to menopause, blood flow to the connective tissue under the skin also decreases. Lower circulation means less oxygen in the area, resulting in lower collagen production. Fat cells also enlarge as estrogen levels fall. These factors combine to makes the fat deposits more visible. As the fat under the skin protrudes through weakening connective tissue, the familiar dimpling effect results.

Age also causes the skin to becomes less elastic, thinner, and more likely to sag. This increases the chance of cellulite developing.

Certain genes are required for cellulite development. Genetic factors can be linked to a person’s speed of metabolism, distribution of fat under the skin, ethnicity, and circulatory levels. These can affect the chance of cellulite developing.

Cellulite is not caused by “toxins," although a healthy lifestyle may help reduce the risk.

People who eat too much fat, carbohydrates, and salt and too little fibre are likely to have greater amounts of cellulite.

Cellulite may also be more prevalent in smokers, those who do not exercise, and those who sit or stand in one position for long periods of time.

Wearing underwear with tight elastic across the buttocks can limit blood flow, and this may contribute to the formation of cellulite.

Cellulite is more prevalent in people who have excess fat, but slim and fit people can have it too. It is more likely to happen after the age of 25 years, but it can affect younger people as well, including teenagers.