Revitol: A Cellulite Solution?

There are many people in the world afflicted with cellulite, and it can seem as though there are just as many products out there claiming to be miracle cures for this common condition.  Between the lasers, injections, wraps, and creams, you might end up spending an awful lot of money without any noticeable or lasting results.  In fact, you may despair of ever finding a solution (at least a non-surgical one). 

But if the makers of Revitol are to be believed, the cure is within your reach, at a mere $40 per 4-ounce tube (courtesy of your Amazon account, or directly from Revitol’s website). But is it worth it? Here’s the skinny on what Revitol has to offer and how you can decide if it’s worth a try.

The first thing you need to know is that Revitol contains all-naturalingredients.  Of course, this is a fairly meaningless claim since there is no legal precedent for the term “all natural”, which means virtually anyone can use it whether a product is natural or not. 

That aside, the idea is that the components of the cream (or at least the active ingredients) could potentially be found in nature.  You’ll just have to decide if you’re willing to risk it, although chances are you’ve tried plenty of unnatural products by now, so the prospect may not faze you.  After all, it’s less invasive and expensive than other options, so maybe it’s worth a try.

In any case, the main ingredients are all supposedly natural and each helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite in its own way.  First is caffeine.  As you may be aware, it acts as a diuretic when ingested.  While this really won’t help you to deal with cellulite, Revitol is banking on the fact that its vasodilator properties will be effective when it is applied directly to the skin and absorbed.

When blood vessels widen, circulation to the area improves, helping to flush the fluids and toxins responsible for the appearance of cellulite.  This may be why so many cellulite creams include caffeine amongst their main ingredients.

Revitol Cellulite Solution

Revitol also contains algae and bladderwrack extracts, for their detoxifying properties; green tea extract, also thought to detoxify; capsicum, which increases circulation; shea butter, for moisture (plump, hydrated skin is likely to display a smoother texture); horsetail extract, for firmness of the skin; and finally, retinol A.  This last ingredient may be familiar as it has lately been used in many facial creams.  So you might know that it can increase elasticity by stimulating collagen production.

The problem is that this process occurs in the dermis, not the layer of subcutaneous fat underneath (which is where connective fibers harden, leading to cellulite formation).  On the upside, greater elasticity in skin could help reduce the appearance of cellulite, even if it doesn’t lessen the cellulite itself.

According to user reviews, Revitol’s cream does reduce the appearance of cellulite somewhat, with some claiming that results from a single use last up to a week.  Since this is better than most creams, it may be worth the money for those who have minimal cellulite formation and want to feel a little more confident when wearing a swimsuit for example.  But for most people, creams that reverse the signs of cellulite are more myth than miracle cure.  If you want real results, you may be stuck working hard (using diet and exercise to decrease body fat) or paying the piper and scheduling your liposuction.

Cellulite Treatment Of The New Age

Are you ready for the newest technique for cellulite treatment? This is something that the beautiful Jane Jetson would be mighty proud of to say the least.

If you've been waiting for the quick fix of cellulite treatment then your time looks like it may have arrived my friend.

It seems that as quickly and easily it is to get your eyes in tip top 20/20 shape, it's just as easy with the new technique of laser surgery for cellulite removal.

Yes maam, how happy are you to hear this glorious news?

What's more, the "FEL", or free-electron-laser will very likely be used to blast away acne as well in the next couple of years.

Here's what is happening so far though. The FEL beam can be produced very specificly, to heat and break down fat tissue, without damaging other body tissue.

In an article in The Times (Online) by Sam Lister, the good news on the new cellulite treatment was stated like this:

"Using the FEL, which is much more powerful than a conventional laser, the scientists were able to choose selected laser wavelengths that could heat up the fat, which was then broken down and excreted by the body".

Another huge benefit will be when the technique will be used to break down plaque in arteries. In fact, the cellulite removal
may be the secondary benefit in the grander scheme of it all don't you think.

Before you get excited however, it looks like this treatment won't be hitting the local strip malls just yet. It's being successfully tested on pig fat (not a bad place to start actually).

But, don't fret. There's still a lot that you can do to treat cellulite on your own. Not as easy as zapping it away, but hey, you appreciate more what you actually have to work for.

Natural Home Treatments For Cellulite

CELLULITE

“Cellulite” is a skin condition that gives the appearance of small bumps and ripples under the skin. The bumps are caused by the underlying fat cells growing too large and stretching the natural fiber compartments that hold the skin to the underlying layers of tissues.

"Cellulite" is ordinary fat, but ordinary fat that affects the appearance of the skin. Strands of fibrous collagen tissue connect the skin to the subcutaneous layers and also separate compartments that contain fat cells. When fat cells increase in size, these compartments bulge and produce a rippled appearance of the skin.

Women tend to have cellulite more often than men because they have a vertical pattern of collagen in the underlying layer that holds the fat cells, and when the fat cells become very large, they bulge out of the chambers and appear as cellulite. In men, the pattern of collagen is tighter, in a diagonal pattern, and they have thicker skin, so there is less bulging of the individual fat cells. Another factor in cellulite is high levels of estrogen, since this hormone has a direct effect on the holding capacity of fat cells through the increase of alpha-adrenoreceptors, the chemical doorways that tell your fat cells to hold on to their contents. Poor diet, bad circulation, and poor lymphatic circulation can all contribute to the appearance of cellulite.

TREATING SKIN WITH CELLULITE

There are several extra steps you can take for the treatment of cellulite. Consider your skin care regimen, and fine-tune it to meet the needs of skin that has a tendency to swell with fluids, store fat and have poor circulation.

Nutrition: Although cellulite is a skin condition, it’s closely tied to the storage of excess fat. If you are significantly overweight, you should certainly alter your diet. The dietary enzyme bromelain can improve overall circulation to your skin and adipose tissues by removing the buildup of fibrin on the walls of blood vessels. Treating cellulite requires a two-pronged approach – one being the shrinking of the fat cells themselves, the second being the regeneration of collagen and strengthening of the skin outside of the swollen fat cells.

Cleansing: When cleaning your skin, use your wash cloth or loufah to massage the area where cellulite occurs. At first, use a circular motion and then a brushing motion upwards towards the bowels. This will improve circulation and edema, and help remove toxins and metabolic wastes out of the tissues and interstitial spaces around the collagen and fat cells.

Other Treatments:

 Dry Skin Brushing: Learn to dry brush your skin at least twice every day – upon rising and before going to bed. Skin brushing provides many benefits in the treatment of cellulite. First of all, it’s “exercise” for you skin, and strengthens the underlying dermis and pattern of collagen in the subcutaneous layer. It stimulates the growth and repair of the tissues by increasing blood flow to the area. It also helps remove toxins and metabolic wastes out of the interstitial fluids surrounding the tissues for disposal. Dry brushing is good for you skin all over, but if you are suffering from spider or varicose veins, brushing these areas vigorously several times every day, first in a circular motion and then upwards towards the colon, can improve the appearance of cellulite.

 Hormones: Cellulite is often associated with the use of HRT and birth control pills. High levels of estrogen from these medications can cause an increase in the fatty tissues ability to store fats and cause them to bulge, pushing out the skin and causing cellulite. If you are using birth control pills for contraception, you may want to ask your doctor for a lower-estrogen dose formula or a non-hormonal form, such as an IUD. If you are on HRT, you may want to consider switching to a lower dose, adding progesterone cream, or using a weaker formula, such as an estrone cream.

 Habits: Get out of the habit of crossing your legs, knees and ankles. This reduces circulation and increases swelling. Try to keep moving regularly, neither sitting nor standing for long periods.

 Exercise: Regular exercise is necessary for the improvement of cellulite. Not only does it help reduce the appearance of cellulite by burning the fatty acids that are causing the cellulite. It also improves circulation and helps to remove toxin-filled wastes away from the skin. Take up a walking program, or sneaking in a set of exercises in the restroom during breaks. Teresa Tapp’s “T-Tapp” program is renowned for short, effective exercise movements that reduce cellulite and increase overall blood and lymph circulation. Rashelle Haines program “LifeLift” is also excellent for improving lymphatic circulation, burning excess fat and glucose and improving muscle and skin tone.

 Body Wraps: Body wraps, both professional and homemade can improve the appearance of cellulite. Body wraps use a combination of minerals and herbs that stimulate the fat cells to release their contents, they absorb toxins from the skin and reduce swelling. Generally you will find stimulant herbs like kelp or algae that stimulate the fat burning process in the cells. You will find cosmetic clays that will remove toxins and wastes from the pores, and horsetail and horse chestnut that reduce edema (swelling) and provide minerals for strengthening the skin. These formulas are applied to the skin with the use of compression wraps. For recipes for doing home wraps, go to the Botanical Beauty Lab website.

 Massage: Massage, particularly the kind that improves lymph flow, is very good for reducing the appearance of cellulite. It improves the removal of metabolic wastes and toxins from the interstitial tissues around the adipose tissues, and gives the skin a smoother appearance. There are many professionals offering massage for cellulite, including lymphatic massage and endermology, but if that is out of your budget, you may want to try a home massage device. Many are available, from a simple round-prong hand tool to a powered massager that provides heat, massage and suction similar to the professional endermology machines.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR CELLULITE REDUCTION

Alfalfa: Alfalfa is a natural diuretic that helps balance the body’s interstitial fluids and reduces edema and swelling. It’s also a phytoprogesterone, which helps balance the excess estrogen that can exacerbate cellulite.

Borage Oil: Borage oil contains high amounts gamma linoleic acid, which is an important fatty acid to the strengthening of cell walls.

Bromelain: Bromelain is a naturally occurring enzyme in natural foods that aid in the digestion of proteins. The consumption of bromelain aids in the removal of fibrin buildup in fine blood vessels. This improves and increases circulation to the skin, and aids in repair and rejuvenation.

Horsetail: Horse Chestnut herb contains high levels of the mineral silica, which is used in the repair and maintenance of skin cells.

Cider Vinegar contains an array of important enzymes and aids in balancing body pH. It’s also a good source of potassium, which is necessary for fluid balance in the body.

Coconut Oil contains medium chain triglycerides which are easily absorbed and used by the body for fuel. It has the capability of stimulating the thyroid gland, which increases body temperature and metabolism and is known for improving the burning of excess fat.

Ginkgo Biloba is a natural blood thinner that increases the microcirculation to skin and fat cells.

Gotu Kolu is a natural source of caffeine. Caffeine stimulates the beta-adrenoreceptors on the surface of the fat cells to release their stores of fatty acids, aiding in the burning of excess fat.

Green Tea: Green tea is a mild stimulate that contains caffeine as well as powerful antioxidants that aid in the proper replication and repair of skin cells.

MSM: Is an important mineral that is necessary for skin cell repair.

EXTERNAL TREATMENTS FOR CELLULITE

Aloe Vera contains alatoin, which sooths and heals skin. It has been shown clinically to increase microcirculation of the skin and to speed healing of skin tissues.

Betonite Clay is a natural mineral clay that is known for its ability to absorb impurities and toxins from the skin through the pores.

Horsetail, ginkgo biloba, kelp and green tea also work externally and can be added to lotions or creams for massage into problem areas.

Many experts have recommended using coffee grounds as a scrub for cellulite prone areas. The grounds work as an exfoliant, as the caffeine absorbs into the skin and stimulate the beta adrenoreceptors in the fat cells to release their contents.

Dead Sea Salts and Kelp or bladderwrack contain powerful minerals that aid in the repair of skin cells as well as the mineral iodine which can aid in the metabolism of the underlying fat cells.

There are also many commercial formulas and methods for the reduction of cellulite. Most contain caffeine or a similar chemical called theophylline or aminophylline. Many also contain kelp, bladderwrack and other herbs mentioned herein.

Just remember that cellulite reduction is a two step process. The cause of cellulite is over-sized fat cells that have stretched out the collagen structure underlying the skin. The first step is to reduce bodyfat, and many herbs and nutrients both external and external can accelerate the process. The second step is to increase the strength of the skin and the collagen webs under the subcutaneous tissues. Skin and collagen require vitamins, minerals and fatty acids to rebuild themselves properly. Excess fluids can exacerbate the problem, so proper fluid intake and circulation is important. Drink plenty of fluids, and stay active to increase the circulation of the lymph system. With a little diligent effort the appearance of cellulite can be reduced.

Alternatives For Cellulite Reduction

Are there any cellulite reduction alternatives? With the rare exception, liposuction is generally considered cosmetic surgery. For this reason liposuction is not considered as medically necessary.

Because of this, the decision is up to you whether or not to undergo liposuction procedure. You may decide that it is not right for you. And you can make that determination right up to the point of actually having the procedure.
Liposuction Alternatives
•    Exercise.
•    Accept your body and appearance as it is.
•    Change diet to lose some excess body fat.
•    Use clothing or makeup to downplay or emphasize body or facial features.
•    Try some of the other methods such as topicals or body wrapping.

Whatever method you select for cellulite reduction make certain that, you have done your due diligence and select the most suitable method with the least amount of risk to obtain the results you desire.

There really is no alternate for good, old-fashioned, healthy nutrition and exercise. The tried and true methods do work:
1.    Watch your diet.
2.    Incorporate fresh and natural foods into your diet.
3.    Get plenty of fiber.
4.    Avoid high fat foods.
5.    Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
6.    Limit the consumption of caffeine and alcohol
7.    Quit or cut down on smoking.
8.    Get plenty of exercise.
9.    Avoid medications not necessary to health and well being.

You can rid your body of excess toxins and promote a general state of health by following a regimen of good health, nutrition and exercise that is optimum for pursuing any program for dealing with cellulite.

Exercises

Cellulite exercises, which will help you to get rid of cellulite, are weight training and cardiovascular exercises. These two exercises when done together will help you a lot in reducing cellulite.

Cardiovascular exercises include walking, jogging and swimming. Where as weight training exercises are simple to complex, which include squats, lunges, leg presses, leg curls, etc. Along with this cellulite exercises a five minutes massage and drinking of plenty of water will increase the blood flow, which indeed reduces cellulite.

Walking
Walking is an incredible exercise, which is useful in many ways. Walking puts the body in continuous rhythmic motion and benefits most parts of the body. It is not just the feet and legs but also the neck muscles, shoulders, back, abdomen and arms that you are putting into motion.
Jogging
This is another wonderful exercise, which is useful in many ways. Body as a whole, will be getting benefited with jogging by strengthening the cardiovascular system, improving blood circulation, toning up muscles and thus helpful an exercise to get rid of cellulite.
Swimming
Swimming is a great activity. It tones your entire body while providing an excellent cardiovascular workout; it strengthens your heart muscle and improves delivery of oxygen to muscles. Swimming is also a relaxing activity.
Weight Training
Weight training exercises to get rid of cellulite can range from simple to complex. Exercises such as squats and lunges are easy to do at home since they simply use the weight of your own body. Free weights can be used at the gym or purchased for home use and can be incorporated into exercises like squats.

You can find different weight training machines in Gyms and health clubs that have built in weight systems and provide a range of different exercises such as leg presses and leg curls.