Cellulite is a problem that many women have to deal with daily. It can be difficult to get rid of and embarrassing to show off your skin in public. Laser treatment may be your solution if you want to eliminate cellulite.
Do you know that there is an opportunity to treat the appearance of cellulite at home? The Heliotherapy Institute provides all information about home skin therapy devices and light therapy as a way to treat your body.
In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about laser treatment for cellulite. We will discuss the benefits and risks and how to prepare for your treatment. So if you are ready to say goodbye to cellulite, keep reading!
Cellulite meaning and its classification
Cellulite is lumpy, dimpled flesh on the thighs, hips, buttocks, and abdomen. It results from the accumulation of fat in the subcutaneous tissue. This condition is not harmful to health, but it can be unsightly. The cause of cellulite is not fully understood, but it is related to factors such as diet, lifestyle, genetics, and hormone levels.
There are three types of cellulite: superficial, intermediate, and deep.
- Superficial cellulite is located just below the skin’s surface and causes pits formation.
- Intermediate cellulite occurs when fat deposits increase and press on the dermis or middle layer of skin.
- Deep cellulite occurs when fat cells increase in size and press on the subcutaneous layer of fat and connective tissue. This type of cellulite is the hardest to treat.
In terms of appearance, cellulite can be mild, moderate, or severe.
- Mild cellulite is barely noticeable and does not require treatment.
- Moderate cellulite is noticeable when the skin squeezes, but the dimples disappear when lying down.
- Severe cellulite is noticeable even when lying down, and the skin looks lumpy and uneven.
Laser treatment for cellulite: how it works?
Laser cellulite treatment is a non-invasive way to improve the appearance of the skin as laser energy targets the underlying causes of cellulite, such as fat cells and connective tissue. This treatment can help reduce dimples and give the skin a smoother and tighter appearance.
There are several different types of lasers for this purpose: low-level laser therapy (LLLT), intense pulsed light (IPL), or radiofrequency (RF) therapy.
Most laser treatments for cellulite are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you don’t have to stay in the hospital overnight. The procedure is relatively quick, taking anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Recovery time is usually minimal, and most people can return to normal activities in just a few days.
If you are considering laser cellulite treatment, you must first consult with a qualified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to evaluate your condition and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
Advantages of laser treatment for cellulite
Laser treatment for cellulite can be very effective. It can help smooth the skin and make it look more toned. Many different types of laser treatments are suitable for treating cellulite, and each has its advantages. But check the most common positives of this treatment:
Clinically proven method
Laser treatment for cellulite is a clinically proven method to eliminate the problem. It makes it a popular choice among those who want to get rid of cellulite. There is a lot of scientific evidence that supports the use of laser therapy for cellulite reduction.
- A study [1] published in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine found that low-level laser therapy (LLLT) was effective in improving the appearance of cellulite. The study found that LLLT increased collagen and elastin production, which helped improve cellulite’s appearance.
- Another study [2], published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, found that laser therapy was effective in reducing the thickness of subcutaneous fat, which can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Most people see significant results after just a few sessions, but some may need up to twelve treatments before seeing any noticeable difference. It depends on the severity of your condition and your response to treatment.
Long-lasting result
Laser treatment for cellulite is a popular choice among those who want to achieve long-lasting results. The procedure works by heating the deep layers of skin, which helps to break down the fat cells that cause cellulite. It results in a smoother, more toned appearance.
Most people will see a noticeable difference after just one treatment, but it is better to have a series of treatments for optimal results. Laser treatment for cellulite is safe and effective, and there are few side effects associated with the procedure.
No surgery
Laser treatment for cellulite is becoming increasingly popular, as it offers a minimally-invasive alternative to traditional surgery, with no needles and no pain.
Laser treatment for cellulite uses high-energy laser beams to target the underlying causes of cellulite: fatty deposits and connective tissue. The laser’s heat helps break down these stubborn fat cells and tighten the skin. It results in a smoother, more toned appearance.
Small downtime
Laser treatments for cellulite usually have a very little downtime, which is great news for busy women with no time to waste. Most people note that they feel mild discomfort during the procedure, but it usually goes away within a few hours. You can generally return to your normal activities immediately, although you may want to avoid strenuous work for the first day or two.
Several drawbacks
There are several drawbacks associated with laser treatment for cellulite. These include:
- The risk of side effects, such as skin irritation, redness, swelling, burns, and pigment changes — is usually minimal when the procedure is performed by a qualified professional. But they are still worth considering before you undergo treatment.
- It is not a one-time solution. You will need multiple sessions spaced over weeks or months to see results.
- It can be expensive. A single session can cost anywhere from $200 to $1000, and you will likely need at least six sessions for noticeable results.
Despite these drawbacks, many people still opt for laser treatment for cellulite due to its potential to significantly improve cellulite’s appearance.
Tips on how to prepare for the treatment
When considering laser treatment for cellulite, it is important to prepare correctly. Here are a few tips on how to prepare for your treatment:
- Schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
- During your consultation, ask about the different types of lasers available and which one would be best for your particular case of cellulite.
- Ask about any potential side effects of the treatment. While most people don’t experience serious side effects, it’s always best to know about them.
- Follow all pre-treatment instructions given to you by your doctor. It may include avoiding sun exposure and certain medications or supplements before treatment.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment so that the treated area is easily accessible.
- Prepare for some discomfort during and after the treatment. Most patients report feeling warm and tingling during the treatment, which subsides shortly afterward. Some mild redness, swelling, and bruising are common and usually resolve within a few days.
- Make sure you have realistic expectations about the results of the treatment. Laser treatments can help improve the appearance of cellulite, but they won’t completely get rid of it.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a successful laser treatment for cellulite and achieve the best possible results.
Summary
Laser cellulite treatment is a great way to get rid of this problem. It is safe, effective, and relatively affordable. If you are considering this treatment option, be sure to consult with a qualified physician to make sure it is the right choice for you. There are many types of laser treatments for cellulite, so be sure to ask your doctor which one will work best for you.
Laser treatment can help you achieve smooth, beautiful skin without surgery or downtime. So what are you waiting for? Start your journey to healthier skin!
Sources
- Barry DiBernardo, Gordon Sasaki, Bruce E Katz, Joseph P Hunstad, Christine Petti, A Jay Burns. A multicenter study for a single, three-step laser treatment for cellulite using a 1440-nm Nd: YAG laser, a novel side-firing fiber, and a temperature-sensing cannula – Aesthet Surg J. 2013 May;33(4):576-84. DOI: 10.1177/1090820X13480858.Epub 2013 Mar 27.
- Christine Petti, Jacqueline Stoneburner, Laura McLaughlin. Laser cellulite treatment and laser-assisted lipoplasty of the thighs and buttocks: Combined modalities for single stage contouring of the lower body – sers Surg Med. 2016 Jan;48(1):14-22. DOI: 10.1002/lsm.22437.Epub 2015 Nov 18.
- Neil Sadick. Treatment for cellulite – International Journal of Women s Dermatology 5(1) DOI:10.1016/j.ijwd.2018.09.002.
- Zahra Alizadeh, Farzin Halabchi, Reza Mazaheri, Maryam Abolhasani, Mastaneh Tabesh. Review of the Mechanisms and Effects of Noninvasive Body Contouring Devices on Cellulite and Subcutaneous Fat – Int J Endocrinol Metab. 2016 Jul 3;14(4):e36727. DOI: 10.5812/ijem.36727. eCollection 2016 Oct.
