The Fight Against Cellulite

by Maggie Staszcuk

What is Cellulite

Cellulite affects up to 85% of women over age 21 and is a common concern among clients.¹ While genetics and hormones play a large role, estheticians can help clients reduce the appearance of cellulite, its severity, and treatment options is essential for providing safe and effective results.   

Cellulite is classified into three grades. The ability to effectively treat cellulite is partly based on its grade.² 

• Grade 1 is considered mild. The skin has 1–4 superficial depressions and a slightly draped or sagging appearance.  

• Grade 2 is moderate, with 5–9 medium-depth depressions in the skin, a “cottage cheese” appearance, and the skin is moderately draped.  

• Grade 3 is severe. There is a “mattress” appearance with 10 or more deep depressions, and the skin is severely draped. 

Hot to Treat Cellulite

Many factors are said to contribute to the development of cellulite, such as long-term inflammation, thinning of the epidermis, and an increase of estrogen in the body.³ While no one wants cellulite, it is genetic and often uncontrollable. Nonetheless, there are a variety of noninvasive modalities available to treat or curb the appearance of cellulite including: 

• Radio frequency (RF) 
• Ultrasound 
• Infrared light 

Each modality comes with its own studies and degree of effectiveness, and each practitioner also has their own anecdotal theories to accompany the treatment plan for best results. Some of those theories include increasing water intake, boosting circulation, or applying topical creams with active ingredients like caffeine or retinol. 

According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, there are only a small number of energy-based devices cleared by the FDA for the treatment of cellulite.⁴ These include: 

• VelaShape (RF and infrared light) 
• Venus Freeze (RF and pulsed electromagnetic fields) 
• ThermiSmooth Body (RF) 
• Zimmer Z Wave (radial pulse therapy)

Energy-based cellulite treatments are delivered through the skin, so they are considered noninvasive and have little or no downtime. Additionally, results are usually temporary. In order to maintain optimal results, a series of treatments is required followed by repeat visits. An additional advantage of energy-based cellulite reduction is that it may also help achieve mild fat reduction and result in a smoother, more even skin texture. 

During treatment, the combination of RF, vacuum massage, and other modalities like infrared heat allows for deep heating of the connective tissue and fat cells. As a result, it stimulates new collagen and elastin. This leads to a reduction in skin laxity and overall appearance of skin texture. An average of five treatments are needed, with most people requiring a series of 4–6. Results are typically gradual. Some clients may see a change in just one treatment, while most people will see results after the first few treatments. 

Insurance Considerations for Advanced Cellulite Treatments 

Cellulite treatments often use energy-based devices, making them higher-risk procedures. Professional liability coverage ensures your practice is protected in case of claims or complications.ASCP members have access to optional coverage  for RF, chemical peels, microneedling, and other advanced modalities.  For more information about advanced esthetics insurance that protects you and your esthetic practice, including the steps for applying, visit www.ascpskincare.com/ami.  

FAQs 

Can cellulite be completely eliminated? 

No treatment completely eliminates cellulite. Noninvasive modalities can reduce appearance, smooth texture, and improve skin laxity, but maintenance sessions are usually required.  

Which clients are best suited for energy-based cellulite treatments? 

Clients with mild to moderate and good overall health are most likely to benefit. Always assess skin type, medical history, and contraindications before treatment. 

Notes

1. American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, “Cellulite,” accessed June 2019, www.asds.net/skin-experts/skin-conditions/cellulite.

2. Peter Crosta, MedicalNewsDaily.com, “Everything You Need to Know About Cellulite,” accessed June  2019, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/149465.php.

3. American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, “Cellulite.” accessed June 2019, https://www.asds.net/skin-experts/skin-conditions/cellulite

4. American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, “Guide to Cellulite Reduction Treatments,” accessed June 2019, www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/non-surgi....