Anti-Cellulite Lotion

Anti-cellulite lotions and stretch-mark formulas

Cellulite shows up on the thighs of an estimated 85 percent of adult women, regardless of body composition and weight. Perhaps that explains the numerous firming and anti-cellulite creams on the market today. But do they work? They're not likely to, according to experts. While some of the ingredients contained within these lotions may make the skin feel and appear slightly tighter, experts say that there is no evidence that they can reduce cellulite. Doctors at MedicineNet.com say, "Skin creams cannot deliver the required concentration of these chemicals (methylxanthines) for the length of time required for significant fat breakdown."

Paula Begoun concurs, saying that most research suggests that "there is little hope that anything rubbed on the skin can change fat deposits or radically reduce the appearance of cellulite." She states that the only topical treatments that could possibly have any effect are retinols and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), though there is only minimal research to suggest the possibility. These treatments don't have to be labeled as a "cellulite cream" to be effective; any well-formulated retinol or AHA will do. Begoun suggests instead concealing cellulite with a good sunless tanning product. (See the ConsumerSearch report on sunless tanning.)

Much like cellulite, stretch marks are a common ailment for which treatments receive a lot of hype with very little promise. Stretch marks affect an estimated 90 percent of mothers, 70 percent of adolescent females and 40 percent of adolescent males. They occur when the skin is stretched for an extended period of time, such as with a pregnancy or weight gain.

Experts say that there is no evidence that over-the-counter creams can have any impact on stretch marks. Instead, they recommend tretinoin, which can be found in Retin-A, Renova or their generic counterparts. Tretinoin has the ability to improve skin texture, color and function and helps to stimulate elastin synthesis. Over time, this can improve the appearance of stretch marks, but it will not remove them completely. Experts say that the typical improvement for this prescription treatment is approximately 20 percent and it works best if it is used at the first sign of stretch marks.