Xanthines, such as aminophylline and theophylline, are common ingredients in many cellulite creams and are shown in vitro to stimulate fat metabolism. However, most recent studies involving actual subjects have not demonstrated these creams to be useful in the fight against cellulite [Ref. 1,2,11].

Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives approved by the FDA as an effective treatment for wrinkles. In concentrations of 0.01 to 0.1%, it reduces the appearance of fine wrinkles and roughness of facial skin by improving the thickness of the epidermis and circulation to the surface of the skin. Retinoids are now being considered as a possible treatment for cellulite, but as of yet no large-scale studies have been published showing their value in this area [Ref. 1,2].

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) such as lactic acid and glycolic acid, are found in plants and certain foods including citrus fruits, apples, grapes, tomatoes, apricots, and sour milk. In lower concentrations of 3 to 7%, AHA’s act as exfoliators, accelerating the sloughing of the superficial layer of dead cells, increasing the cell turnover rate, and essentially thinning the outer most layer of the skin. In higher concentrations of 8 to 12%, AHA’s have been found to reduce fine wrinkles. No studies have been published on AHA’s as an effective treatment for cellulite [Ref. 17].