Cellulite is fat that is deposited in pockets just below the surface of the skin. It occurs around the hips, thighs, and buttocks. Because it is very close to the surface of the skin, cellulite leads to a dimpled appearance.

Cellulite may be more visible than fat deeper in the body. Even thin people can have cellulite, because we all have layers of fat just below the surface of the skin. Collagen fibers that connect fat to the skin may stretch, break down, or pull tight, allowing the fat cells to bulge out. This creates the rippled look of cellulite.

Your genes may play a part in whether or not you have cellulite. A poor diet, "fad" dieting, a slow metabolism, hormone changes, and even dehydration may play a role. A great deal of money is spent by people who want to rid themselves of cellulite, but no amount of weight loss, exercise, massages, wraps, creams, supplements, or surgery has proven to effectively eliminate it once you have it. Liposuction, for instance, is not recommended for cellulite, and may even make it look worse.

Although many dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons recognize cellulite as a legitimate problem that patients seek to have them "cure," most of the medical community doesn't view cellulite as a disorder. Instead, it is considered a normal condition of many women and some men.

Tips for avoiding cellulite include:

• Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber
• Staying hydrated with plenty of fluids
• Exercising regularly to keep muscles toned and bones strong
• Maintaining a healthy weight (no yo-yo dieting)
• Not smoking