Q: I am a 24 years old female, weigh 59 kg and am 152 cm tall. I have been suffering from cellulite accumulation for the past one year. The situation is getting worse day by day and fats have accumulated all over my body. The fat under the skin is clearly visible as my skin is very thin. My skin is tearing off now and I look bulky, as my stomach has started bulging out. I really feel ashamed to get out of the house and this is affecting my work. Please tell me how to reduce cellulite? Will any change in diet or medicine or cream help?

A:Cellulite is the deposit of fatty cells, which gets caught underneath the connective tissue of the skin. These tissues are not elastic like the skin and do not allow for expansion and contraction, and the accumulated fatty deposits cannot move out. This causes that particular area of the skin to have a dimpled look (orange peel appearance) or lumpy fat bulges leading to cosmetic problems. The most common places for cellulite to develop are the thighs and buttocks as these are the areas prone to fat accumulation. It may, however, be found on abdomen, neck, upper arm etc. The exact cause for it is not known but poor blood circulation, reduced venous flow, impaired lymphatic drainage, and fluid retention is thought to play a role. The proneness to develop it is related to inheritance, female hormones, pregnancy, stress, sedentary lifestyle, obesity etc. Among the treatment options available are massage, injections and cosmetic surgery along with regular exercise and a healthy diet. Please consult a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon who will be able to examine you and then advise appropriately.