Cellulite
is one of the most common summertime topics. New creams
and cures appear in every woman’s magazine and “quick
fixes” abound on the Internet. Surprisingly, very little
objective scientific research has been done on this common
cosmetic affliction. Most “junk science” theories are
based on little more than opinion, repeated online until
they are eventually regarded as fact. That was until a
team of clinical researchers took a hard look at the
causes – and cures – of cellulite. The researchers came
up with surprising results that contradicted the
prevailing wisdom.
Cellulite is mainly caused – not only by fat – but by
collagen. Collagen is the protein responsible for
keeping the skin smooth and elastic. When collagen weakens,
the skin collapses and allows fat to protrude upwards,
creating the familiar details.
What
does this finding mean? Cellulite can be reduced by
tightening skin.
Using
ultrasounds that evaluate collagen levels, Dr. Fink and
his group noticed a significant drop in the level of
collagen of areas that have cellulite, as compared to
unaffected areas. In a pilot study, they used
Intense Pulsed Light, a presently available
therapy, to stimulate collagen production and improve the
condition. Unlike other therapies, the results of this
treatment last about a year. In an attempt to further
improve the outcome, Dr. Fink and his team applied a
cosmetic compound called “DermaFirm”. While using
DermaFirm and Intense Pulsed Light, the results of the
treatment seemed to be even better as compared to using
the light based therapy alone. The great majority of
subjects had a 50-75% improvement and the results seem to
last for a year. Their results are consistently supported
by skin ultrasound studies, which have shown a significant
improvement in the levels of collagen.
When
asked if anybody can do this treatment, he said “Yes. As
long as they are trained with IPL systems. However, I
can’t swear that all IPL systems will give the same
results that we had with the Quadra Q4. [DermaMedUSA makes
the Quadra Q4. Dr.Fink does not have a financial interest
in the company].
About
the author of this article: Joshua Fink, M.D., and his
team of clinical researchers spent three years
investigating cellulite. Their results will be published
in the fall issue of The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.
For more information about Dr. Fink and his research
please visit:
www.centerforcellulitereduction.com
