Definition - What is Cellulite?

Cellulite is a popular term used to describe fat deposits under the skin. It is characterized by the skin’s ‘dimpled’ appearance or what is known as the ‘orange-peel effect’. It occurs due to structural changes happening

underneath the skin’s top layer.  Cellulite is a perfectly normal and harmless condition; however, it is nevertheless a major cosmetic concern for many people. Most women develop cellulite as they age, regardless of their race. According to some studies, as many as 95% of women over age 30 develop some form of cellulite in their body.

Description

Cellulite is a normal occurrence resulting from uneven fatty deposits, mostly below the waistline.

In women, fat is arranged in large ‘chambers’ underneath a fairly thin layer of skin. These chambers are separated by columns of collagen fibers.

Many reasons contribute to too much fat being deposited into these chambers, causing the pitting and bulging of the skin. In addition, as women age, the collagen fibers shrink and break, pulling the skin downward, causing a flaccid cellulite. This results in a quilt-like appearance on the skin surface, especially in areas such as the buttocks, thighs, or hips.

Female hormones (estrogen, and to a lesser extent, progesterone) play an important role in the formation of cellulite. Estrogen is important for the storage of fat, which is needed for menstruation, pregnancy and lactation. Recent data suggest that certain abnormal sensitivity to estrogen causes a collagen breakdown which sets the stage for the formation of cellulite. Progesterone may also contribute to the cellulite problem by weakening veins and causing water retention and weight gain. Adrenalin, Thyreoid hormones and Prolactin also play an important rule in cellulite formation.

Cellulite is mostly a female problem. Due to different body physiques, men tend to have lower percentages of body fat, while women have higher percentages mostly in the buttocks and thighs. Men have thicker skin and the chambers are smaller and more tightly-held together. Therefore, cellulite is not often found in men.

Causes & Symptoms

Many scientists believe cellulite is mostly predetermined by the genes that the persons carry. However, environmental as well as behavioral factors are also important.

The following factors are thought to contribute to the development of cellulite:

• Being overweight. Even though cellulite also appears on thin individuals, excess weight makes cellulite worse.
• Pregnancy. Cellulite problems get worse with each successive pregnancy. The most effective ways for women to get rid of body fat and cellulite and get back to pre-pregnancy shape are breast-feeding, exercise and Vela Shape treatments.
• Aging. As women age, collagen gets broken down and the skin sags. In addition to this, the body’s energy requirement lowers, thus, there is more fat accumulation.
• Poor blood circulation. When there is impaired blood flow to the fat-storage area, collagen fibers are damaged due to the lack of oxygen and the accumulation of toxic wastes. The fibers shrink and thicken, resulting in the quilted appearance of the fat chambers. In addition, because oxygen is needed to burn fat for energy, fat in these poorly oxygenated areas is the last to be used. This is also why cellulite is proves to be so difficult to eliminate. Poor blood circulation is often caused by sedentary lifestyles, smoking and high caffeine consumption.
• Poor lymph drainage. The lymphatic system filters out and carries away cellular wastes and toxins. If it is impaired, toxic products accumulate and inflate these fat cells, causing cellulite.
• Lack of exercise. Cellulite may be caused by impaired blood circulation and poor muscle tone underneath the skin, which are caused by sedentary lifestyles.
• Food allergy. Food allergy causes a variety of symptoms including food craving, weight gain, bloating and water retention, all of which worsen cellulite.
• Highly processed foods that contain preservatives, artificial sweeteners and other additives. Heavy consumption of pre-packaged foods cause builds up of these toxins in the body.
• Yo-yo dieting. Yo-yo dieting causes a woman to lose fat in the upper body while increasing fat deposits in the buttocks, thighs, and hips. Therefore, this practice tends to make cellulite problems worse than they were before dieting.
• Sun exposure. Prolonged exposure to the sun accelerates the skin-aging process and the breaking down of collagen, which holds the cellulite chambers.

Diagnosis – Cellulite removal treatments

Endermologie Treatments – 011.327.4490

Endermologie improves the circulation by increasing blood and oxygen flow to the suffocated cellulite tissues and thereby accelerating the drainage of the stagnant waste products of metabolism via the lymphatic system and the fine blood capillaries. The metabolism of the fat cells is improved, encouraging them to lose some of their contents and thus shrink in size.

The dimpling effects of cellulite are caused by two factors; the swelling of the fat lobes that lie just beneath the skin, which push the skin up and the contraction of the vertical connective fibres which act as the anchor points and pull the skin down. The suction action of the massage stretches these connective strands, thus smoothing the surface of the skin. As the fibres are stretched, they are stimulated to produce collagen and elastin, which results in an improvement in skin tone. During the treatments, the skin is exfoliated by the kneading action of the rollers, thus improving the appearance. The Endermologie course involves the minimum of fourteen to twenty treatment sessions of 35 to 45 minutes duration.

To book your beauty treatment please contact Soma Body Therapy on:

Address: No 3 Quinn Street, Parkhurst, Johannesburg

Tel: 011 327 4490

Fax: 086 560 1224

Cell: 079 047 5173

Email: info@somabodytherapy.co.za

Web: www.somabodytherapy.co.za

In-Salon Treatment:  New Age ‘Peel & Heal’

Successfully reduces the pores, controls oil secretion without exacerbating telangiectasia.  With acne or inflammatory rosacea the peel has an anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial effect helping treat and prevent congestion and acne, often associated with rosacea.  Natural AHAs and BHAs.

RégimA Scar Repair has been seen clinically to greatly improve all degrees of rosacea, including inflammatory or acne rosacea.  It calms skin redness and telangiectasia (broken capillaries) become less visible, re-elastisizing skin.  This is achieved with anti-inflammatory and healing plants such as centella asiatica and bulbinella frutescens, unique micro-molecular elastin peptide, plant and protein complexes.

In cases where there is thickening of the skin with an orange peel, open pore appearance one helps to tighten the pores and smooth out the coarseness of the skin, also helping reduce nodules.  Night Renewal Ultimate Booster would be used nightly and when combined with regular ‘Peel & Heal’ treatments one should experience a more dramatic improvement in skin texture.

As men mostly can be affected by rosacea RégimA created the Amazon range providing all the essentials to minimize the condition.

Under Cover Green Foundation  -  A RegimA product used by plastic surgeons following laser skin resurfacing and dermabrasion to help cover post op erythema is also beneficial for the rosacea sufferer.  A thin layer of green foundation is applied and normal skin colour foundation is applied over.

The rosacea client generally has a sensitive skin and one must therefore use a RegimA day product with SPF over the top of the Scar Repair.

Broken Capillaries What to do and when to peel?

NOTE:  These show sensitivity in that particular area and should therefore not be over-stimulated. We have found that by building up and thickening the skin in those areas the capillaries become less visible or disappear in certain cases. It is suggested that these areas are treated using either Quantum Elastin Dermal Regenerator or Scar Repair morning and night along with the home care essentials prior to ‘Peel & Heal’. The ‘Peel & Heal’ may be applied to the rest of the skin in the interim if so desired.

Monitoring of the skin

It is advisable, especially as one gets older, or if one has been suffering from a particular skin problem eg. Pigmentation, acne etc. to have the skin checked on a regular basis by a doctor or skin care professional. If one does suffer from a particular skin problem it is recommended that one take a photograph of the face prior to commencing the treatment range. This is always good for comparison later.

Care During Pregnancy

It must also be noted that apart from Curve Contour Cellulite Controller, all RégimA medical and professional products are SAFE for use during pregnancy and for lactating women. It is, we feel, essential that one should use for example the  RégimA Scar Repair & Anti-Stretch Complex 3 times daily on all areas prone to stretch marks throughout pregnancy and during lactation. This procedure has been used extremely successfully by so many mothers over many years, resulting in very happy moms, with little or no stretch marks and happy, healthy babies.  Continue applying Scar Repair, especially to the breast area, initially during the breast feeding phase to prevent stretching due to rapid enlargement of engorged breasts.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON REGIM-A TREATMENTS AND PRODUCTS CONTACT US ON:

011.327.4490

info@somabodytherapy.co.za

www.somabodytherapy.co.za

Pigmentation?

Pigmentation affects so many people for a variety of reasons. If the cause can be established and eliminated (eg. Pregnancy, the Pill or dehydrating alcohol based cosmetic products stopped) then one has a chance of removing the problem. Skins prone to pigmentation must be extremely careful when considering certain treatments such as laser or certain deep peels. These can exacerbate an already distressing problem. (One must accept the advice of a doctor specializing in laser therapy, with regards lasering or deep peeling of a pigmented skin).

The New Age ‘Peel & Heal’ (See under Peel & Heal section for full details), because of the unique formulation, has proven to be safe and effective for the treatment of pigmentation in combination with our home care essentials.

The problem of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can affect anyone.  This can occur, especially if not treated correctly, post laser, dermabrasion, trauma.  We at RegimA have dealt extensively with this problem on behalf of the plastic surgeons with in-salon ‘Peel & Heal’ treatments and home care products.

The RegimA New Age ‘Peel & Heal’ has for years been renowned for the safe and successful treatment of pigmentation with leading plastic surgeons and salon professionals.  This is an in-rooms and in-salon treatment.  The treatment of pigmentation must not be aggressive if one is to eliminate and prevent further recurrence.  A series of ‘Peel & Heal’ treatments is recommended.  These treatments are maintained with RegimA home care.  RegimA ‘Peel & Heal’ safely and effectively helps eliminate pigmentation in all age groups, even the very young, all skin types, even very sensitive, black, white, Asian, male and female.

The safest, most effective treatment of pigmentation is Vitamin C.  However, Vitamin C comes in many forms, the most potent being L-Ascorbic Acid.

L – Ascorbic Acid (Vit C)  -   Treatment of Hyperpigmentation & Anti-Ageing

The only truly beneficial form of Vitamin C which has the ability to act on the dermis (true, living skin) is L-Ascorbic.  Other vitamin C derivatives may be found as vitamin C ester, ascorbyl palmitate and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate etc.  The derivatives are easier to stabilize so they are the ones generally to be found in over the counter cosmetic products.  However, they are unable to work any deeper than the epidermis (outer horny, dead layer).  Studies have shown that derivatives with a neutral or more alkaline pH are not absorbed.  Research shows that in studies comparing L-Ascorbic Acid and Ascorbyl Palmitate, the latter was ineffective in comparison.  For any of these derivatives to have any impact on the skin they would have to be in extremely high concentrations to have a similar potency.  If ascorbyl palmitate is used within a topical cream it would have to be in excess of 20% concentration to be effective in the deeper layers.   Manufacturers have, in certain cases, substituted vitamin C derivatives, esters in an attempt to solve the problem of product stability.  In order for any of these compounds to work they must penetrate the skin and then be chemically converted by the skin cells into L-Ascorbic Acid.

Scientific studies show that for vitamin C to be beneficial to the skin it MUST be in the form of L-Ascorbic Acid as it is the only form the body can recognize.  It must be in this active form and MUST be at a low, acid pH (acidic) to achieve skin penetration as the skin is an excellent barrier protecting against outside substances entering the body. In this way higher levels of ascorbic acid can be targeted directly to the skin by topical application, that cannot be achieved by diet.   L-Ascorbic acid is the only form of vitamin C that can be utilized by the body and provides photoprotection, prevents UV immunosuppression, a reaction which occurs in more than 90% of skin cancer patients.  Studies have shown that Vitamin C is the only antioxidant proven to stimulate collagen synthesis.  Collagen is the main protein of skin and continued synthesis is essential to maintain a healthy skin as collagen decreases with age and sun damage. This is achieved by neutralizing reactive oxygen free-radicals, the highly reactive molecules produced when sunlight interacts with cell membranes and other skin tissue.  It is therefore an aid to sunscreens. Once topical L-Ascorbic  has penetrated the skin it cannot be washed off and the effectiveness is not reduced by perspiration and has been found to stay in the skin for upto 72 hours.  We read about the reservoir effect.  This means that L-Ascorbic Acid applied topically to the skin (essentially at the perfect low pH level) remains active within the skin for 3 days.

L-Ascorbic is a powerful antioxidant, protecting the skin against, and reducing, harmful effects caused by UVA and UVB rays. It is capable of controlling the inflammatory response associated with ultraviolet light (helping to prevent sunburn) as well as being protective when applied after sun exposure.  It speeds  up the healing process.  Topical application of L-Ascorbic Acid is helpful in speeding the healing process.  It is recommended as a post-operative regimen for laser resurfacing patients.   RégimA uses high percentages within the Pre and Post Laser treatment regime.  It is known for its action on melanocytes and helps prevent hyperpigmentation, sometimes associated with laser treatment.  This form of vitamin C has been shown to decrease the degree and duration of post CO2 laser erythema (reddening).  It has also been seen to have an impact on stretch marks.

A major reason for RégimA using L-Ascorbic Acid is the fact it has been proven to be effective not only as a preventative, but also as a  treatment of hyperpigmentation.  Clinically it has a therapeutic effect and has been used extensively in trials for the treatment of pigmentation anomalies, due to the action of effecting reversion of the process of forming melanin.  It has a ‘bleaching” effect on the skin.  Clinical studies show that vitamin C ester may also help with superficial chloasma (pigmentation) which is epidermal.

We believe at RegimA we have created the ULTIMATE Vitamin C products.  We have for a number of years used L-Ascorbic Acid for the prevention and treatment of hyperpigmentation with outstanding results without any side effects on all skin colours and skin types  -  RégimA C-Innovation Pigment Perfector and Serum C+ Facial Firmer + Pigment Perfector.

Our technology allows a marriage of potency as never seen before. L-Ascorbic working on rejuvenation plus reduction in pigmentation penetrating to the deeper basal layer, Vitamin C Ester working on the outer epidermis.  To treat pigmentation one would apply the vitamin C product to the affected area twice daily with a RegimA SPF product over the top am and pm a RegimA AHA night product over the top.  One should continue RegimA maintenance to prevent pigmentation recurrence.

‘Peel & Heal’ treatments containing citric acid, an AHA and BHA, accelerate the process of pigmentation elimination.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON REGIM-A:

011.327.4490

info@somabodytherapy.co.za

www.somabodytherapy.co.za

Indulge in Beauty Treatments        

When the pace of life – rush, rush, work, work, play, play – starts taking its toll on your energy and appearance, its time for some well-deserved pampering.  At Soma Body Therapy, its our job to ensure that you always put your best face – and body – forward and our health and skincare specialists are on hand to deliver a range of pertinent, pampering beauty treatments to life you spirits and sooth your body and soul.

A good start would be to completely relax and unwind and enjoy a firm, luxurious body massage, guaranteed to almost magically ease accumulated tensions and stresses out of your system. You may then want to consider one or more of the aesthetic beauty treatments from our wide array on offer.

If the stress of your life is being reflected in your skin, no doubt your face and body is looking tired, creased, lined and dull.  We are experts in skin rejuvenating beauty treatments, with our wide range of offerings including treatments for pigmentation, acne scarring and wrinkles.  We offer a range of facials, including fruitacid peels form RegimA.

If you have stretch marks, cellulite or ‘pockets’ of stubborn fat in the usual areas – buttocks, thighs, abdomen, waist – then you will benefit hugely from Endermologie and Ozone Therapy beauty treatments.  Quick, painless and highly effective, this is the ideal way to hone and shape yourself into the body you want to be.  So the next time you need some time out to refresh, rejuvenate and reinvent yourself, contact us and let one of our health and skincare therapist give you expert advice on which beauty treatments are right for you.

Cellulite Begone with Endermologie!

We all live in fear of the appearance of the dreaded ‘orange peel skin’ and truthfully, not many of us escape its arrival.  Whether overweight or not, the fact is that cellulite is a naturally occurring condition caused by trapped ‘pockets’ of fat under our skin which leave us with areas of dimpled, bumpy skin.  The good news is that with the advent of revolutionary new procedures, cellulite can fast become a distant memory.

Cellulite is most commonly found in women – in the subcutaneous fatty layer underlying the dermis and epidermis on the thighs, buttocks and abdomen.  It is a well known fact that cellulite is almost impossible to get rid off and even those with the healthiest diet, exercise and lifestyle habits suffer from this skin scourge.  Whereas in the past liposuction may have been the only answer, many find this mechanical procedure invasive, rough and painful.  The good news is that Endermologie is safe, quick, easy, effective – and pain free.

Endermologie is a revolutionary new method of lmphatic draignage for the removal of excess waste, resulting in the banishing of cellulite.  It stimulates the connective tissue of your skin to produce new collagen fibres, resulting in a smooth, tightened and sculpted appearance of the treated skin and underlying tissue.

For your FREE consultation, contact us on:

Tel: 011 327 4490

Fax: 086 560 1224

Cell: 079 047 5173

Email: info@somabodytherapy.co.za

Website: www.somabodytherapy.co.za (Our Home Page)

FAQ – ENDERMOLOGIE

SOMA BODY THERAPY 011.327.4490

How many sessions before I see results?

The average women will need 14 to 20 treatments to achieve optimal results. Treatments are generally 35 minutes in duration, twice a week. Once a month follow-up treatments are recommended to maintain results.Click here to request a booking.

How long do the results last?

For several months up to a few years, depending on age, lifestyle, and hormonal changes. Once-a-month maintenance sessions are recommended after completion of the initial sessions, which maintains the results and keeps the toxins and abnormal fluid from building back up in the connective tissues.

How long does a session last? Do you just work on my problem areas?

Sessions last an average of 35 minutes. Your problem areas are focused on, but time is given to other areas to stimulate general circulation and elimination.

What is cellulite?

Cellulite is a skin condition that affects more than 90% of women. It is the “orange peel” skin most women begin to notice in their 20s. It tends to worsen with age and is related to hormonal variations. Resulting from circulation impairment on a micro level, cellulite is a vicious circle involving abnormal fluid retention in connective tissue and enlargement of fat cells.

Does this replace exercise?

No. In fact, it is highly recommended that you add diet and exercise to the routine you follow while undergoing Endermologie ® treatments. In most cases, this improves results. It really works on a different area than exercise ~ which effects the deeper structures, which is why even women who work out often have cellulite.

Do diet and exercise get rid of cellulite?

Since cellulite is a complex problem, it must be addressed from the subcutaneous layer, to act on fluid retention. This fluid retention is abnormal. It is not the kind of fluid you would lose by exercising – it is a combination of fluid and toxins that have built up in the connective tissues. Whereas both diet and exercise affect deep fat, they fail to act on the underlying cause of cellulite in the superficial tissue of your skin. Even women who exercise regularly and follow a low fat-diet may still have cellulite.

Does this treatment work on men also?

Definitely ~ especially for problem areas such as “love handles”, stomages and loose pectoral tissues.

How long do I have to wait after liposuction or a tummy tuck to receive treatment?

This depends, but usually you can start once the compressive garments come off. However, Endermologie ® is an excellent way to prepare the skin for liposuction or a tummy tuck before surgery ~ allowing for optimal results.

Does the machine tone the skin? Will I lose weight?

You will most likely notice an improvement in skin tone after using the LPG machine. Appearance of stretch marks and loose skin may be improved. It is not a weight loss machine. However, many clients report being able to lose weight, especially fat weight, more easily while using the machine than they ever could before.

Does it hurt?

The sensation is similar to a deep massage and most clients find it quite pleasant. The strength of the treatment can be individually adjusted to your comfort level. What will I feel like afterwards? Most clients report a feeling of relaxation and an increase in energy. Since the Lymphatic system is stimulated, it is recommended that you drink at least two liters of water every day during the duration of your treatment in order to aid in elimination of the mobilized fat.

Why are photos taken before and after the session of treatments?

Photos are taken to provide an accurate record of improvements and to help the Endermologie practitioner provide better treatments through comparative analysis.

Are there any side effects?

Minor temporary bruising may occur.

To book your Endermologie Treatment please phone us on:

(011)327-4490

info@somabodytherapy.co.za

www.somabodytherapy.co.za