Healing Journeys with Suzie Daggett
Therapy or vanity? That was the leading question when I visited Dr. Peppercorn’s California Institute of Skin and Beauty in Lake Wildwood to experience Endermologie. I was intrigued by the idea that I could remove those unsightly bumps and lumps that have settled on my legs, arms and oh yes, midriff. The therapist, Kim Habib, explained all the bits and parts of this machine massage. And then, I laid down, dressed in a one-piece cloth suit and she gently started the process. It felt a bit like the suction you would feel if you put the end of a vacuum hose on your body, but much better! The end result? A feeling of light and spaciousness in my body. To visibly reduce cellulite, you would need an average of 14 treatments, yet the treatment can be used just for massage. You can decide for yourself if this type of therapy is useful and helpful for your inner and outer beauty.
Your office offers a spa treatment called Endermologie. Please explain the therapeutic benefits of this massage treatment.
Endermologie is a machine assisted massage system that allows positive pressure in conjunction with applied negative pressure to the skin and subcutaneous tissues to improve the appearance of cellulite. An endermologie massage is an excellent way to stimulate blood circulation to the skin and helps blood flow more freely through the blood vessels and body organs. Endermologie also relieves chronic muscle pain by applying varying levels of downward pressure directly into a muscle group to break up scar tissue that causes pain and inhibits range of motion. Conversely, endermologie techniques work by lifting bound connective tissue that is limiting your muscles from repairing and aligning properly. A unique, whole body approach stimulates your body to reduce the appearance of cellulite while reshaping your figure and improving skin tone.
What is the function of the lymph system and how does an Endermologie treatment benefit the lymph system?
The lymphatic system consists of organs, ducts and nodes. It transports a watery clear fluid called lymph. This fluid distributes immune cells and other factors throughout the body. It also interacts with the blood circulatory system to drain fluid from cells and tissues (toxins and metabolic waste). Toxins create cellulite and act as sludge in the lymphatic system. Endermologie can increase lymph flow in the body by 400-600% to detoxify by increasing the elimination of toxins and metabolic waste. This helps to reduce cellulite while improving your well being and leaves you with smoother, brighter, healthier skin.
Why do we develop cellulite – is it a result of lack of exercise, improper eating habits, or genetics?
Toxic buildup is the overriding cause of stagnant lymph that causes cellulite. Over the years, toxins from the environment, processed foods and foods with lots of chemical additives accumulate in our bodies. While the liver, kidneys, sweat glands and lymph system work hard to rid your body of toxins, these in house detox systems can’t always keep up the pace. An overload of toxins means they get deposited and trapped in other places, particularly in and around fat cells, including those in the subcutaneous skin layer causing the appearance of “orange peel” skin or cellulite. The bottom line is that all the body’s systems are interconnected and cellulite beneath your skin may be an important indication that something isn’t being cleared away or fed properly from within. As endermologie treatments help clear your system, you will feel more energetic and vibrant, and your outward appearance will reveal how healthy you are on the inside.
What other spa/skin treatments do you offer?
Our Institute Spa Services include advanced facials, microdermabrasion, massages, body treatments, as well as waxing, laser hair removal, noninvasive laser skin rejuvenation, and fabulous spa packages for rejuvenation and special events.
Robert M. Peppercorn, M.D.’s California Institute of Skin and Beauty/Advanced Dermatology and Laser Center can be found in two locations, Lake Wildwood (530) 432-2624 and Yuba City, (530) 755-3223 or www.instituteofskin.com
Healing Journeys is a column written by Suzie Daggett for the Grass Valley Union newspaper. Suzie interviews a variety of health practitioners most Fridays in the Wellness section. Click here to read past articles. Enter "Suzie Daggett" in the search box to get listing of all articles. |
