Sallie Elizabeth has always had large breasts and a big
bottom, and she has acknowledged them as part of her genetic
makeup. But when cellulite appeared in the back of her upper
leg, she “freaked out” and resolute to do something about
it.

A friend recommended endermologie, a deep massage treatment
using a motorized device with two adjustable rollers and
controlled suction. The device is said to improve the look
of cellulite by gently folding and unfolding the skin for
smooth and regulated deep-tissue movement.

The cellulite is “less visible,” she says, noting her
smoother, softer skin. “I feel healthier. My circulation has
improved … and I feel more relaxed.”

To keep up the effects, the 20-something model visits Smooth
Synergy, a cosmedical spa in Manhattan, once or twice a week
for 35-minute sessions with the endermologie machine and a
technician.

Elizabeth haw be enjoying her cellulite-busting experience,
but experts raise eyebrows at some tools or treatments
purported to reduce the appearance of cellulite, trim fat in
specific areas, shed pounds, or build muscle, particularly
if they claim to replace exercise and good nutrition.

“They’re a squander of money,” says Richard Cotton, a spokesman
for the dweller Council on Exercise and chief exercise
physiologist for myexerciseplan.com.

If that is the case, then a sizeable chunk of currency could
be going down the drain. According to a Federal Trade
Commission (FTC) weight loss advertising way report, in
the year 2000 alone, consumers spent an estimated $34.7
billion on weight-loss products and programs.