What is a Cellulite Machine?

A cellulite machine is used to attack areas of dimply skin that affect eight out of 10 women; men rarely have it. Cellulite is not a disease, rather a cosmetic condition that makes skin on the thighs and buttocks look much like cottage cheese underneath. A cellulite machine is used to smash the fat that lies between the skin and connective tissues, thereby making the skin surface appear smoother.

There are several types of cellulite machines, ranging from hand-held massagers to more invasive surgical procedures. The most common cellulite machines are rotary cylinders, mesotherapy, and laser treatments. Liposuction, however, is not used to fight cellulite. The procedure removes excess fat, which leads people to believe that cellulite will follow, but the truth is that cellulite is sandwiched in a separate layer from the targeted fat in liposuction.

Treatments of cellulite can be time-consuming and expensive. The least complicated cellulite machine option is a rotary cylinder — a hands-on method of attacking cellulite. Similar to a portable massage unit, the pressure and motion of the machine breaks apart the excess fat that is later flushed away by drinking large amounts of water. Other options are more aggressive. Mesotherapy, for example, is a series of injections into the "orange peel" area with vitamins and minerals that are touted as cellulite erasers; the procedure does not require anesthesia.

Laser therapy is a cellulite machine option that takes time and money. A laser is used to break apart the fat beneath the skin, which is then extracted through a small tube. Sometimes, a second laser is used to generate collagen, which helps lend a smooth appearance. Patients should expect to undergo 10 to 15 treatments, which can cost up to $1,500 US Dollars (USD).

There are other methods to combat cellulite that also require an office visit. Endermologie is a non-invasive treatment where a massage machine is used to fold the top layer of fat, thereby stretching the connective tissue and reducing cellulite. This treatment touts reduced body measurements and relief of muscle pain. Developed in the 1980s, it originally was used to treat burn victims. Patients can receive Endermologie once or twice a week and will need up to 28 initial treatments with monthly visits afterward.

Several factors can worsen cellulite, including stress and inactivity. Obesity is not a precursor to cellulite, but the lumps and bumps become more noticeable on a heavier person. Doctors typically recommend healthy eating and a fitness regimen to help keep cellulite at bay.