Cellulite classification

Cellulite (scientifically known as edematous-fibrosclerotic panniculopathy) is an imperfection that affects the vast majority of women, although men are not entirely exempt. It mainly appears on the hips, buttocks, and thighs—areas where fat accumulation and circulatory stasis are most frequent.

Visually, the hallmark sign is the so-called “orange peel skin,” characterized by small dimples. At a structural level, however, the challenge is subcutaneous: cellulite presents as micro-cavities positioned perpendicularly to the skin tissue.

The stages of cellulite: the Nürnberger-Müller scale

To treat this condition correctly, it is essential to understand its current progression. The most widely used clinical classification is by researchers Nürnberger and Müller, which divides cellulite into 4 severity levels:

Stage	Visual Characteristics	Clinical Description
Stage 0	Assente	Total absence of signs, both while standing and lying down.
Stage 1	Oedematous	Skin appears smooth, but dimples appear only when the area is “pinched.”
Stage 2	Fibrous	Irregularities are evident even while standing without any manipulation.
Stage 3	Sclerotic	Presence of deep nodules and “mattress skin.” The area may be painful to the touch.

Types of cellulite: Edematous, Fibrous, and Sclerotic

Beyond the numerical scale, aesthetic medicine distinguishes cellulite based on its tissue evolution. Understanding this distinction is fundamental for choosing the right treatment:

1. Edematous Cellulite (Initial Stage): Characterized by significant fluid stagnation (edema). It is typical for those suffering from swelling and water retention.

2. Fibrous Cellulite: Small nodules form in the adipose tissue, and the connective tissue loses its elasticity. The skin feels harder to the touch.

3. Sclerotic Cellulite (Advanced Stage): Nodules become larger and stiffer, circulation is severely compromised, and the affected area may feel cold and painful.

Why does cellulite occur? The main causes

The appearance of cellulite does not depend on a single factor but rather a combination of elements:

• Genetics: Predisposition to capillary fragility or poor circulation.

• Hormonal Factors: Estrogen activity promotes water retention.

• Lifestyle: Stress, smoking, and poor dietary habits (excessive salt and sugar intake).

• Vascular Issues: Slowed blood circulation prevents proper tissue drainage.

• Clothing: Wearing overly tight clothes or high heels that obstruct venous return.

How to Diagnose and Fight Cellulite

To defeat this “enemy,” awareness is your best weapon. Before starting any treatment, an accurate analysis is essential.

Diagnosis with Contact Thermography

One of the most innovative tools is contact thermography. This system uses microencapsulated liquid crystal plates that, when placed on the skin, change color based on skin temperature.

Since cellulite alters microcirculation, the temperature of the affected areas varies. Contact thermography allows for the detection of cellulite even when it is not yet visible to the naked eye or detectable through palpation, enabling a preventive and targeted approach.

Effective Prevention and Care Strategies

• Nutrition: Reduce sodium intake, increase water consumption, and eat antioxidant-rich foods.

• Physical Activity: Regular exercise keeps muscles toned and improves skin elasticity, countering tissue aging.

• Professional Treatments: Once the stage is identified by a nutritionist or aesthetic doctor, you can opt for lymphatic drainage massages, carboxytherapy, or radiofrequency.