Skin-sculpting serums target appearance of fat

NEW YORK -- They're not quite the miracles in a bottle that many longing-to-be-buff bodies are hoping for, but some new skin-sculpting serums do promise to target the appearance of fat.

Avon Solutions Cellu-Sculpt and Lab Series for Men's Ab Rescue Body Sculpting Gel are on the market in time for swimsuit season.

Both companies claim clinical tests show a reduction in at least the appearance of fat because there is an improvement in the firmness and texture of the skin and cut down on dimpling.

"The important part is reasonable expectations," says Rob Kalafsky, executive director of Avon's skin-care unit, overseeing global research and development.

"It's not a magic bullet so that you can eat all you want and not exercise but still look great. This is a product that helps treat a problem," he adds.

According to Avon, Cellu-Sculpt, which includes caffeine, gingko biloba and ginseng, will take up to one inch off the circumference of thighs if used regularly for four weeks. Cellu-Sculpt is said to work best on the thighs and buttocks because that's where a woman's skin is slack and has the most trouble supporting fat cells, Kalafsky says.

Ab Rescue is designed specifically for men and the way men store fat, though women have tried the product since its February launch and have seen some positive results.

Caffeine stimulates skin cells and has become a common ingredient in skin-care formulas.