Caffeine for cellulite reduction

.Caffeine --it's the same stuff that gets us going in our morning Starbucks. Caffeine is also one of those time-honored ingredients found in many topical creams, lotions and gels used for cellulite reduction. Caffeine is inexpensive and reasonably effective as a cellulite reducer.

So what exactly is caffeine, and how does it work to get rid of cellulite?

Caffeine: the wonder drug

Caffeine is the most popular psychoactive substance on the planet. The majority of the population consume caffeine in one of its many forms (coffee, tea, kola nut) every day. Caffeine helps wake you up, helps you stay alert and process information.

When used topically, caffeine has a variety of benefits. Studies have shown that caffeine helps reduce tumors in mice exposed to high-energy ultraviolet radiation. Some dermatologists use caffeine preparations to treat rosacea.

But what role does caffeine play in the war on cellulite?

Caffeine and cellulite

When used topically, caffeine has some very interesting effects. Primarily, caffeine seems to reduce fat content in cells. Scientists believe that caffeine interferes with the action of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase (try saying that a few times fast). Phosphodiesterase is a chemical that the body uses to prevent the breakdown of fat. So by preventing this enzyme from doing its job, caffeine helps to reduce cellulite by encouraging the body to burn the fatty tissue known as cellulite.

Unfortunately, caffeine has another topical effect that's less desirable. Caffeine causes the blood vessels of the skin to constrict. This diminishes blood flow, which can reduce blushing, flushing, inflammation and other symptoms of rosacea. But this reduction in blood flow doesn't help reduce cellulite. In fact, diminished blood flow can actually contribute to cellulite.

Is caffeine an effective cellulite reducer?

Yes and no. Caffeine is applied to your skin is certainly an effective cellulite reducer. However, drinking caffeine in the form of soda or coffee can actually exacerbate cellulite! See our anti cellulite diet article. Drinking green tea will not increase cellulite, as green tea contains theobromine, which stimulates the release of stored fat.

How can I reduce cellulite?

Cellulite creams work to reduce cellulite by toning and firming problem areas by a variety of mechanisms. With daily application, top-quality cellulite creams are a good start to getting rid of cellulite and reclaiming the firm, toned body you remember.

Read our reviews of top-rated cellulite creams.