What is Cellulite?

Cellulite refers to a specific appearance of subcutaneous fat accumulation. Small connective tissue fibers that connect the skin to deeper tissue are not able to stretch. When fat cells enlarge they can cause bulging and dimpling that can be seen on the skin surface as a bumpy often described as a “cottage cheese” or “orange peel” appearance.1

Cellulite Causes

Cellulite probably involves more than just simple fat accumulation given the array of risk factors and possible causes of cellulite formation. Cellulite may be more than just a cosmetic problem and reflect more serious health issues.

Factors such as poor circulation, lack of exercise and poor muscle tone, fluid retention, toxin storage and diminished lymph drainage all seem to worsen the appearance of cellulite. Exposure to estrogen and estrogen-like chemicals in today’s toxic world as well as our modern high-stress lifestyle may play a role in cellulite formation.2

Toxins and other factors contribute to cellulite, as connective tissue (septae) loses ability to retain fat cells.

Near Infrared Light Therapy Reduces Cellulite

The known benefits of near infrared light are numerous, and many impact the problem of eliminating cellulite. A fantastic effect is that light emitted in a near infrared lamp sauna directly reduces the amount of visible cellulite. Studies using near infrared light alone and in combination with bipolar radiofrequency mechanical suction-based massage device have shown decreases in cellulite accumulation. 3 4 5

Other benefits of NIR therapy provide direct and indirect help in reducing cellulite. Near infrared energy increases tissue circulation, and promotes healing and rejuvenation of skin and deeper tissues. NIR sauna therapy stimulates detoxification while boosting overall metabolism. Exercise combined with exposure to near infrared energy results in decreased overall body fat, further helping the cellulite problem.6

The relaxation and stress relief achieved through NIR sauna therapy may reduce adrenalin (catecholamine) levels. Reducing adrenaline levels has been shown to help cellulite as well.7

Near infrared lamp sauna therapy combined with a healthy diet and a safe exercise program may go a long way towards solving the cellulite problem.8

  1. DeBruyne LK, Pinna K, Whitney EN. Nutrition and Diet Therapy . Belmont, CA: Cengage Learning. 8th edition, June 20 2011:187.

  2. Rossi AB, Vergnanini AL. Cellulite: a review . J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2000(July); 14 (4): 251–62. doi:10.1046/j.1468-3083.2000.00016.x.

  3. Alster TS, Tanzi EL. Cellulite treatment using a novel combination radiofrequency, infrared light, and mechanical tissue manipulation device . J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2005
    Jun;7(2):81-5.

  4. Möckel F, Hoffmann G, Obermüller R, Drobnik W, Schmitz G. Influence of water-filtered infrared-A (wIRA) on reduction of local fat and body weight by physical exercise . Ger Med Sci. 2006; 4: Doc05.

  5. Sasaki GH,Oberg K, Tucker B, Gaston M. The effectiveness and safety of topical PhotoActif phosphatidylcholine-based anti-cellulite gel and LED (red and near-infrared) light on Grade II-III thigh cellulite: a randomized, double-blinded study . J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2007 Jun;9(2):87-96.

  6. Alster TS, Tanzi EL. Cellulite treatment using a novel combination radiofrequency, infrared light, and mechanical tissue manipulation device . J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2005
    Jun;7(2):81-5.

  7. Rossi AB, Vergnanini AL. Cellulite: a review . J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol.2000(July); 14 (4): 251–62. doi:10.1046/j.1468-3083.2000.00016.x.

  8. Wilson L, MD. Sauna Therapy . The Center For Development. March 2014.