01 Ago Sclerotic cellulite: what happens to our skin?

Sclerotic cellulite represents the third stage of cellulite. Before investigating its specific nature, let’s try to understand what it is and what determines its formation.

The mechanisms that lead to the appearance of cellulite concern both the more superficial layers of the skin (the dermis) and the deeper ones (the hypodermis).

In the dermis, blood microcirculation is altered, leading to an edematous state of water stasis. In the hypodermis, on the other hand, adipose masses have formed that push upwards and wedge themselves into the dermis, compromising the subcutaneous structure: these processes generate the typical appearance of “orange peel” skin.

What happens to our skin?

In the first phase the adipocytes, increasing in number and volume, can lead to the compression of the blood vessels, compromising the hydro-saline exchange and facilitating the leakage of liquids at the level of the capillaries.

In a second phase, then, the adipocytes aggregate creating nodules without blood supply. Collagen fibers stiffen, compressing nerve endings and creating depressions in the skin, affecting the subcutaneous layer.

In sclerotic cellulite, the nodules increase in size and are hard and painful to the touch. Signs of venous and/or lymphatic insufficiency may appear, with tissue edema. Even if with difficulty, it is still possible to intervene with specific targeted treatments (aesthetic and medical-aesthetic).

The part affected by the disorder is soft and without tone; there are many depressions and the “orange peel” is very evident, even without compression. Edema may appear as a sign of a circulatory defect and pain is felt to the touch as well as cold and discolored skin.

Thermographic analysis helps to understand what type of cellulite stage we are at and to identify the best mode of intervention: we are talking about a quick, totally painless examination, which can be carried out several times to verify the progress and effectiveness of the treatments carried out.

Through the use of a special microencapsulated liquid crystal plate, contact thermography allows you to have a high-definition color image that reflects the situation of the underlying tissues, allowing you to classify cellulite in one of its stages.

The system has very high sensitivity and it can show the very first accumulations when still not visible to the naked eye or detectable on palpation.

Based on the diagnosis made, it is possible to intervene both to slow down its development and to improve the situation through specific targeted treatments.