10:33 AM PDT on Wednesday, July 5, 2006

By JEAN ENERSEN / KING 5 News

As the weather gets warmer, out come the shorts – that is, unless you’re bothered by cellulite.  Now there’s a new treatment when it comes to getting rid of those cottage-cheese thighs. 

Maybe you work out at the gym, but nothing seems to budge that dimply fat known as cellulite. About 80 percent of women have cellulite.  Wendy Wood is one of those women. 

"It has been long term, but I notice the older I get, the more of a problem it is,” said Wood. 

But is she stuck with it? 

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The theory behind Velasmooth is that it combines massage rollers, infrared heat and radio-frequency waves to tighten skin and increase circulation. Treatment consists of twice-weekly appointments for two months.

“The only thing everyone agrees on about cellulite is that if you have it, you hate it and you want to get rid of it,” said Paula Begoun, consumer advocate. 

Wood decided to try a new FDA approved treatment called the Velasmooth laser which she likens to a deep tissue massage, only warmer. 

“It doesn't hurt, but you can definitely feel it and there's heat involved,” said Wood. 

The theory behind Velasmooth is that it combines massage rollers, infrared heat and radio-frequency waves to tighten skin and increase circulation. Treatment consists of twice-weekly appointments for two months. 

“Everyone has seen results, at least 50 percent reduction in cellulite,” said Angela Corpus, licensed aesthetician with Bela Skin and Body. 

The only lifestyle change required: Clients need to start drinking more water. But Corpus says as soon as they see the results, motivation kicks in. 

"They're wanting to eat better, wanting to do more exercise, and that will even enhance the treatment even more and you'll see even better results." 

But to keep those results, maintenance treatments are required. Seattle author Paula Begoun, also known in the industry as the “cosmetic cop”, says although lasers show the most promise for controlling cellulite, the technology still has a long ways to go. 

“There is no research showing that there is an anti-cellulite product, treatment, laser that has any long lasting effect, or any dramatic results that will make you think you can jump into that bikini tomorrow,” said Begoun. 

A 16-treatment package will cost between $2,500 and $3,000.  Wendy Wood believes the cost is worth it. She started noticing a difference after about six visits. 

“My skin was smoother, my clothes were fitting better, and just a better overall appearance on the outside,” Wood said.