The active ingredients in Revitol Cellulite Solution have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for their effectiveness in treating cellulite, but anecdotal evidence suggests that some may temporarily improve the appearance of cellulite. Three ingredients in Revitol cream in particular, caffeine, retinol, and ginkgo biloba, have received public attention for use as cellulite treatments.
Caffeine in Revitol Cellulite Solution
Revitol Cellulite Solution's main ingredient is caffeine. The theory behind the use of caffeine in cellulite treatments derives from caffeine's diuretic properties. Caffeine, as a diuretic, reduces edema, or water retention. In addition, caffeine increases blood circulation within the body.
Cellulite treatments using caffeine theorize that the treatment works to improve the appearance of areas with cellulite by reducing the amount of water retained in the thighs, and improving blood circulation. The effects of caffeine on blood circulation and water retention are fleeting, however, so any treatment using caffeine would require frequent application.
Retinol and Revitol Cream
Retinol, another ingredient in Revitol Cream that is commonly used to treat cellulite, is a metabolite of Retin-A, a form of Vitamin A. Retin-A increases cell regrowth in the skin, which results in thicker skin. Although retinol, which can be purchased without a prescription, may have the same properties as Retin-A, the amount that is necessary to provide the same skin-thickening results has not been established.
Excessive application of retinol to the skin can cause peeling and other side effects, so users should be aware of skin reactions when using products containing retinol. In addition, any skin-thickening effects from retinol are not permanent, so the treatment needs to be ongoing in order to maintain results.
Ginkgo Biloba to Treat Cellulite
Ginkgo biloba is used as a treatment for skin inflammation, and may also work as a cellulite treatment for the same reasons. According to scientists at the Department of Dermatology, Chonnam University Medical School, Kwangju, Korea, ginkgo biloba also increases collagen production, which may improve the general appearance of the skin. As with any other topical cellulite treatment, the effects of ginkgo biloba in a cellulite lotion are temporary.
Revitol Cellulite Treatment Ingredients
Revitol Cellulite Treatment contains caffeine, ginkgo biloba, retinol and many other compounds thought to improve the appearance of cellulite. Although there is no scientific evidence that any of these compounds are effective in the treatment of cellulite, each compound has properties that suggest that it may provide some temporary improvement in the appearance of dimpled thighs.
References:
Georgia Health Info: Cellulite.Retrieved May 15, 2010.
Kim SJ, Lim MH, Chun IK, Won YH. Effects of flavonoids of Ginkgo biloba on proliferation of human skin fibroblast. Skin Pharmacol. 1997;10(4):200-5.
Updated April 2011
Victoria Nicks - Victoria Nicks has a Master's Degree in IT, and extensive hands-on experience with various types of hardware and software.
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