Cellulite

Are you bothered by uneven, dimpled skin around your thighs and buttocks? Even at a healthy weight, many people struggle with cellulite, which makes them feel less confident in their appearance. Affecting up to 90% of women, cellulite is a source of frustration for many.

Cellulite is almost impossible to get rid of on your own, which can make it even more frustrating. That’s why Capital Laser & Skin Care offers cellulite treatments to help you feel confident in the figure you’ve worked so hard for.


Learn More About Cellulite

Cellulite is the appearance of dimpling of the skin, typically found in the thighs and buttocks, but it can also appear on the abdomen and upper arms. These dimples are formed by fibrous septae, the tissue bands that connect the skin to the muscle layer beneath. 

Between the skin and muscles is the adipose layer, responsible for cushioning the backside. Connective tissues in this layer pull down on the skin while the fat cells between them bulge up. This produces the dimpling effect cellulite is known for, that unsightly “orange peel” texture no one wants.

Even though cellulite is partially caused by fat under the skin, it can affect anyone, even at a healthy weight. Cellulite is more common in women than men due to the different distribution of fat and muscle.

If you’ve searched for a solution for your cellulite, you’ve undoubtedly heard of topical creams that promise smoother, firmer skin. Topical treatments may temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite but cannot remove it. Moisturizing the skin and improving elasticity can make the dimpled fat underneath less noticeable.
However, these results are often minimal and short-lasting. The board-certified dermatologists and Capital Laser & Skin Care can guide you through your options and help you effectively combat your cellulite with innovative treatments.

Cellulite is the result of a fat cushion beneath the skin and fibrous bands called septae that connect your skin to the muscles beneath. When the septae pull down on the skin, it causes dimpling, while the fat cushion pushes up to create peaks. The result is an uneven, lumpy surface. 

The fat layer’s thickness and appearance can change with a variety of factors. Unfortunately, these fat cells are a type that cannot be burned as fuel by the body, so they’re particularly difficult to reduce. Weight loss may lessen cellulite, but it won’t solve the fibrous septae that cause dimpling. 

Some factors that may contribute to cellulite include:

  • Hormonal changes
  • Pregnancy
  • Genetics
  • Lifestyle, including poor diet and lack of exercise
  • Weight gain
  • Age
  • Accumulation of toxins

The thickness and elasticity of your skin can also affect the appearance of cellulite. As you age, cellulite may become more noticeable as your skin naturally loses elasticity. This makes the dimpled fat tissue underneath easier to see.

Cellulite is a very common but frustrating issue. If topical creams and lifestyle changes aren’t working to reduce your cellulite, our skin tightening and body contouring treatments can help you achieve smoother, more even skin.

Skin-Tightening Treatments

We offer a variety of skin tightening treatments that can improve your skin’s health and elasticity to make cellulite less noticeable. Sofwave™ uses SUPERB™ (Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology) to stimulate collagen production that firms and strengthens skin for a more even appearance.

If you’re struggling with stubborn fat deposits that contribute to cellulite, our board-certified dermatologists can also discuss CoolSculpting® to help sculpt your figure. Some patients also may benefit from truSculpt® Flex for muscle toning.

Take the First Step

Interested in learning more about our cellulite solutions? We would love to speak with you. Please fill out the form on this page to request a consultation or call our Chevy Chase, MD office today at (301) 798-9699 to schedule your private consultation at our laser and cosmetic dermatology center, located just blocks away from Washington, D.C.