By: Katharine Griffiths
Created on 09th June 2010
As spring inches towards summer we're starting to peel off the layers, but do we really want the world to witness the lumps and bumps that lie beneath? Cosmetic Surgery & Aesthetics Guide investigates two possible ways to combat cellulite and achieve thighs to be proud of
It is an affliction to which seemingly no woman is immune - Hollywood actresses, pop stars and even supermodels are regularly pictured in the press with dimpled flesh on show.
Thankfully, the rest of us don't have to suffer quite such public humiliation, but whether you're Tyra Banks or just plain Josephine Bloggs, the thought of bearing your cellulite to the world sends shivers down the spine.
So what's the solution? If, like most of us, you have spent hours in vain body-brushing and massaging the offending areas, you may be pleased to hear that help is at hand. We asked celebrity favourite Dr Rita Rakus which treatments she recommends to deal with unsightly cellulite.
Thermage CPT
You may have heard about Thermage's skin tightening properties for the face and neck - it is often referred to as a ‘nonsurgical facelift'. But did you know that this radiofrequency treatment can also be used to treat cellulite?
Thermage works by heating the deepest layers of your skin, tightening the collagen in your dermis and subcutaneous tissue, while also stimulating the formation of new collagen. As a result, you'll see tighter, smoother skin and improved tone and texture, starting immediately and continuing in the months following treatment.
Until recently, Thermage had a reputation for being extremely painful - some people even compared it to childbirth! - but Thermage CPT is a new and improved version. CPT stands for ‘Comfort Pulse Technology' and the new machine has a vibrating tip, which vigorously massages the treatment area throughout the process to make the whole experience more comfortable. The procedure is slightly uncomfortable rather than painful but the great thing is that you look completely normal when you leave the clinic, as there is no redness or swelling. At around £3,000 it's not cheap, but patients have reported smoothing of dimples on thighs and buttocks after just one treatment, with long-lasting results.
VelaShape
The second treatment I would recommend is VelaShape, which we offer in our Knightsbridge clinic, performed by Malvina Fraser, the resident aesthetician who has worked alongside some of the UK's top dermatologists.
VelaShape uses Elos technology - a mixture of bipolar radiofrequency and infrared light energy - combined with two types of tissue massage: mechanical and vacuum.
This unique mix accelerates the use of stored fat, shrinks existing fat cells and increases lymphatic drainage, through precisely targeted and controlled heating of dermal and hypodermal tissue. The simultaneous massage smoothes out the skin, leaving you dimplefree and ready to hit the beach. Four sessions are recommended at one week intervals, costing £150 a pop.
Do your homework
Although these treatments are highly effective in themselves, a small amount of input from you is required for maximum results.
We recommend the Murad Body Care Regime, which incorporates a Firm and Tone serum, dietary supplement pack and a Body
Firming cream. A 28-day supply costs £135, but combined with
either VelaShape or Thermage the kit will leave you with thighs to die for - and you can't put a price on perfection!
Cellulite Busters in a Bottle: the Cream of the Crop
To maintain the results of your Thermage or VelaShape treatment, try these out for size:
Medik8 Lipomelt Forté, £34, 020 8997 8541/www.skinbrands.co.uk
Containing high concentrations of active ingredients that stimulate dermal compaction and substantial lipolysis, which are key to cellulite breakdown and a slimmer silhouette.
PRIORI CoffeeBerry Slimming Body Complex, £51, 0845 555 2121/www.cosmestore.co.uk
An all-natural formula fortified with coffeeberry, nature's most potent antioxidant to fight free radicals and the causes of skin ageing, Slimming Body Complex has been clinically proven to reduce thigh circumference.
Tracey Bell CelluScription CelluTherapy, £66, 01624 613 323/www.traceybell.co.uk
Contains botanical extracts to stimulate lipylosis and tighten tissue, which in turn diminishes the appearance of dimples.
Image Skincare Body Spa Cell.U.Lift Body Firming Crème, £84, 01865 338 046/ www.skingeeks.co.uk
Formulated using Image's unique Enzyme Polypeptide Complex, Cell.U.Lift strengthens collagen fibres and reduces the volume of lipid cells and underlying tissue.
Available from: For more information about Dr Rakus and the full range of treatments she offers, visit www.drritarakus.com or call 020 7460 7324
