Bikini season is in full effect so everyone is trying to get their beach bods ready. Even with the most extreme workouts, the dreaded C word, CELLULITE, is one that we wish we didn't have to hear or see.

Cosmetic and surgical dermatologist, Dr. Kenneth Beer, is here to answer our most pressing questions on what cellulite really is - and most importantly how to prevent it.

Take it away Dr. Beer.....

WHAT EXACTLY IS CELLULITE? Cellulite is fat that has fibrous bands that cause visible ripples.

CELLULITE IS EVERY GIRL'S WORST ENEMY - WHAT KIND OF TREATMENTS ARE THERE TO LESSEN THE SIGNS OF IT ASIDE FROM LIPOSUCTION? There are no great treatments available today but in the very near future, new laser and ultrasound technologies promise to help decrease cellulite. Cellulite treatment is the holy grail of dermatology and we are all anxiously awaiting a treatment that works because we see the need for this and demand for treatments from patients.

SINCE IT'S SUMMER AND EVERYONE IS WEARING BATHING SUITS, WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PREVENT CELLULITE? Exercise that decreases the overall fat content of the body will help. Other than this, diet is really the only way. The creams that have promised to decrease fat did not really work at all.

DO ANTI-CELLULITE/SKIN FIRMING CREAMS REALLY WORK? They don't really work -if they did, there would be lines around the corner.

WHAT INGREDIENTS SHOULD WOMEN LOOK FOR? To date, I don't think that any ingredient is better than any other. Theophylline and caffeine which were touted a few years ago are still used in some creams but there is little evidence to suggest that they are effective.

WHAT KINDS OF INGREDIENTS ARE FOUND IN THESE KIND OF PRODUCTS AND HOW DO THEY HELP? Caffeine and theophylline are used and they are supposed to be useful to increase cellular metabolism at the sites of cellulite.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR TOP FIRMING CREAM OPTIONS? IS THERE A TYPICAL LENGTH OF TIME THAT IT TAKES BEFORE SEEING ANY RESULTS? The best firming cream options come from companies that invest in science. L'Oreal has a great one that takes about six weeks to work.

IS IT REALLY POSSIBLE TO WAVE GOODBYE TO CELLULITE? Only if you get rid of your mirror.

So, we can't say adios to the cellulite, but we can try to make it less visible. By sticking to a healthy diet and keeping the cardio regime at the gym we'll be on our way.

If you're inclined to try out some firming creams, here are two great options that will keep the visibility level down.

PerriconeMD ALA Body Toning Lotion SPF 15- Not only does it reduce the appearance of cellulite, it smoothes and minimizes skin imperfections and sagging skin (thanks to ingredient DMAE), while improving lift and firmness over time. Containing SFP 15, lather it on and watch the skin start to tighten while staying safe from the rays.

www.perriconemd.com

Zia Ultimate Body Firming Treatment - Blending caffeine, vitamins and botanicals (gotu kola, ginko and licorice root) this cream will visibly improve the tone of your skin while strengthening, detoxifying, and tightening it up.

www.zianatural.com

Dr. Beer is a clinical instructor of dermatology at the University of Miami and founder/director of "The Cosmetic Boot Camp" - the country's leading training seminar for cosmetic dermatologists.

www.idealskin.com
www.palmbeachcosmetic.com