What is Cellulite?
Cellulite is the name we give to the lumpy, dimpled look of the skin caused by fat deposits that accumulate beneath the skin. Although it is considered a cosmetic problem, physicians refer to cellulite as edematous fibrosclerotic panniculopathy (EFP). It most commonly appears on the buttocks, hips and thighs. Between 80 and 90 percent of women will experience cellulite at some time in their lives, but it can affect men as well. Onset usually begins after age 25, but cellulite has been known to affect teenagers. Over 3 million people in the U.S. are affected per year.
What Causes Cellulite?
Cellulite occurs due to shrinkage or shortening of the fibrous tissue cords that anchor the skin. Experts agree that the most likely cause is a decrease in blood flow caused by age or diminished hormone levels. This in turn means less oxygen in the area, which results in lower collagen production. Lower estrogen levels, high fat diets and a sedentary lifestyle increase the size of the fat cells. Age also causes the skin to thin and lose elasticity, making it more likely to sag. These factors combine to make the fat cells more visible and cause the skin to appear dimpled.
How Do Scrubby Sunflower Products Help?
Made of natural fibers, the Scrubby Sunflower helps increase blood circulation, softens and smooths the appearance of the skin – diminishing the look of the unwanted lumps and bumps of cellulite, anywhere on the body. It stimulates the creation of new young skin cells while removing any old, dry skin, and allows better absorption of creams or lotion. Regular exfoliation can stimulate your body's lymphatic system to help eliminate waste and toxin buildup. And it has the added benefit of reducing any dark spots.
Sunny Contouring Body Wash calms and soothes dry, irritated skin and plumps skin cells to diminish the appearance of rough, dimpled areas. It stimulates blood circulation to help collagen production and contains ingredients designed specifically to fight the appearance of cellulite.
CROTON LECHLERI (Dragon's Blood/Drago)
Despite its name, this is not the blood of a mythical monster. Sangre de Dragon, commonly called Dragon's Blood is the sap of the Croton Uechleri trees found in the Amazon Rainforest. The name came from its dark red color. It is rich in an alkaloid, taspine, known for its tissue and skin regeneration properties. Dragon's Blood forms a protective shield on the skin which soothes and calms irritated skin. This amazing ingredient contains a group of compounds called proanthocyanidins, which actually repair collagen. This helps to plump the skin and diminish the look of cellulite.
CAMELLIA SINENSIS (Green Tea)
This beautiful botanical contains powerful polyphenols, which are natural antioxidants. Antioxidants help to neutralize the oxidation of free radicals caused by environmental stressors, which may otherwise lead to discoloration, lines, wrinkles and other common signs of skin aging. Green Tea also contains a potent amino acid, L-theanine, which may give it its characteristic calming and stress-relieving effect. While this can help to create an overall sense of relaxation, it may also help to soothe and nourish the skin. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly in the battle against cellulite, alkaloids such as caffeine, theobromine and theophylline are also found in green tea extract. These organic plant-based compounds have a stimulant effect, which temporarily tones and tightens tissue. It also increases circulation and reduces water retention, both of which may help smooth the rumpled look of cellulite. Scientists believe that caffeine prevents the production of an enzyme within the cells known as phosphodiesterase. This specific enzyme is used by the body to prevent the breakdown of body fat. By limiting phosphodiesterase, caffeine allows the body to burn off the fat cells that cause cellulite. Caffeine can also dehydrate the water content of your fat cells, so they're less swollen, and cellulite looks less obvious.
OLEA EUROPAEA (Olive) FRUIT OIL
Olive oil and olive leaves have long been used in skin care (thank you, Cleopatra). Olive oil contains linoleic acid, a fatty acid that helps it moisturize skin cells. Because of its unique ability to mix with water, the oil penetrates deeply to help skin stay moisturized without clogging pores. Naturally, olive oil is packed with anti-aging antioxidants and hydrating squalene.
