The causes of cellulite are multifactorial and the exact cause has not been clarified by scientists. The following factors seem to be associated with the likelihood of its occurrence:
Weakening of connective tissue
Cellulite occurs when the connective tissue that holds the skin to the muscles is pressed unevenly by fat cells. This results in the skin being pulled downwards and as a result, subcutaneous fat is pushed upwards, which makes the skin surface appear uneven.
The connective tissue under the skin and the deeper layers of muscle have a different structure in men and women. In women, the connective tissue and fat cells are in a parallel arrangement, which can make the uneven appearance of the skin more noticeable. In men, the tissue has a crossed oblique structure (like a fishnet stocking), which prevents fat hernias and the appearance of cellulite.
Genetic factors
Genetic predisposition: one of the main hypotheses of cellulite etiology is heredity. If your mother had cellulite, the likelihood of you getting cellulite is very high. Scientists associate cellulite with gene polymorphisms that affect the activity of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and disrupt tissue oxygenation.
Estrogen
Estrogens stimulate fibroblasts to produce the enzyme collagenase, which breaks down collagen. Thus higher levels of estrogen cause low levels of collagen and, therefore, increase the onset of cellulite.
Prolactin
Prolactin, a hormone responsible for the production of breast milk, reduces the ability to metabolize fat. High levels of prolactin reduce the levels of testosterone and progesterone that contribute to fat burning. This affects the ability to lose weight during breastfeeding, hence why cellulite becomes more apparent during pregnancy and postpartum.
Insulin
After each meal the pancreas releases insulin, especially when we consume a large amount of carbohydrates. When our body does not manage insulin properly, such as if we are not active enough or are insulin resistant, insulin tends to convert carbohydrates into fat cells which are stored as triglycerides. The fat cells swell and press against each other, resulting in the appearance of cellulite.
Thyroid diseases
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. These hormones play a key role in regulating metabolism and can slow it down if they are not produced in normal amounts. In turn, a low metabolic rate can contribute to the development of cellulite.