INTRODUCTION: High-intensity focused electromagnetic field treatment (HIFEM) uses low-frequency electromagnetic waves to induce supramaximal muscle contractions, causing muscle hypertrophy and reducing fat.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a HIFEM treatment for the improvement of cellulite on the buttocks.
METHODS: Thirty patients were divided into two groups that received eight or 12 HIFEM sessions on the buttocks for six weeks. We assessed the improvement in cellulite and the buttocks' global appearance through the Cellulite Severity Scale (CSS), the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), and a satisfaction questionnaire. Changes in body composition were evaluated through bioimpedance and hip circumference measurements.
RESULTS: Patients from both groups improved the global appearance of their buttocks. Cellulite lesions of some patients improved, but for most patients, the improvement wasn’t great enough to change the grade on the Cellulite Severity Scale. Patient satisfaction was high and adverse events were few, minor, and transitory.
CONCLUSION: The effects of HIFEM on cellulite are subtle, as this treatment modality cannot address the fibrous septa that cause the depressed lesions of cellulite. Nevertheless, HIFEM procedures can improve the buttocks’ global appearance, enhancing the patients’ subjective perception of their cellulite.

Keywords: Cellulite; Aesthetic equipment; Electromagnetic fields

Skin laxity is defined as sagging and reduced tightness of the skin. A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases to identify studies about skin laxity, focusing on causal mechanisms. Two main distinct processes of skin laxity have been previously reported, proposed here as superficial cutaneous laxity (SCL) and deep cutaneous laxity (DCL). SCL results from structural alterations in the dermis and leads to fine wrinkles and a superficial draped pattern. DCL is the result of subcutaneous sagging, mainly through relaxation and stretching of the complex formed by the adipose tissue, its septa, and the superficial fascia.

Keywords: Review; Skin; Skin Aging; Anatomy; Physiology

INTRODUCTION: Cellulite is a highly prevalent condition among women. However, its prevalence is not currently based in high-quality population studies.
OBJECTIVES: To estimate the prevalence of cellulite among Brazilian women.
METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 385 participants and a convenience sampling. The survey was based on the Hexsel & Hexsel cellulite evaluation scale and shared by SBD members.
RESULTS: The study included 614 women, primarily between 20 and 29 years-old (32.8%). The prevalence of cellulite was 92.5%. In women between 12 and 19 years-old, the prevalence reached 72%; above 70 years-old, it was 100%. Among women reporting cellulite, 82.7% reported depressed lesions and 19.4% described elevated lesions. There was a significant association between body weight and presence of cellulite.
CONCLUSIONS: Cellulite has an estimated prevalence rate of 92.5% in the Brazilian population; it is less prevalent among adolescents (72%) and reaches scores close to 100% among women over 70 years-old. It is most prevalent among overweight and obese women.

Keywords: Cellulite; Prevalence; Cross-Sectional Studies