Cellulite affects most women sometime in their life. Sometimes it happens to men - usually when they are overweight - but women are thought to be more prone due to the higher fat content in their bodies. While cellulite is often associated with being overweight, there is not an exact correlation with some thin women experiencing the condition.

Many women are surprised to find out that celebrities and other famous women suffer from cellulite. This is because the media often portrays these women as being perfect, covering up the imperfections with makeup.

To understand how to treat this condition you first need to understand what it is exactly. The dimpling of cellulite is caused by a thin layer of fat beneath the skin which exists in a small honeycomb like structure. When the fat begins to bulge from these honeycombs cellulite appears.

While cellulite is mostly seen in the thighs, hips and buttocks it can also be found in other areas of the body like the back, stomach and even the neck. The occurrence of this condition is often related to the genes that you have inherited. This is why slender women can still suffer from cellulite even if they don't have much excess fat.

Genes are not the only cause, however. Other risk factors can include being overweight, alcohol, caffeine, medication like the contraceptive pill, a lack of exercise, a slow metabolism and not enough water. This a short list of the most common risk factors but if you have cellulite you should take a look to see if any of these maybe a contributing cause.

Age is another major risk factor. As a woman gets older the skin begins to lose its strength and elasticity, and the structure that keeps the fat underneath the skin in place starts to lose its ability to secure the fat.

Changing the risk factors of developing cellulite can help you fight back against the condition. Begin by starting a new exercise program, eat more vegetables and fruit, and make sure you drink plenty of water. Avoid those bad foods that lots of calories or fat such as chocolate, fast food or snacks.

It is important that when you start to exercise that you use both the cardio equipment and weights. Toning your muscles will help to set a solid foundation for the fat beneath the skin and stretch the skin to reduce the appearance of those dimples.

Other cellulite treatments can combine with diet and exercise to help you reduce the appearance of the condition. Many people have had wonderful results with such treatments as creams, laser, lotions, radio waves and wraps. Research these treatments fully to make sure you choose the correct treatment to reduce your cellulite.