Cellulite happens to us for many reasons. Some reasons-- like genetics or hormones -- you can do very little about. But cellulite is also related to a number of other factors that you CAN work with and improve.

Cellulite affects 90% of women and a much smaller percentage of men. The condition is such a complex one that no real cure is considered to be available. Some products, therapies and procedures do claim to be cures but the jury is still very much out on the subject of getting rid of cellulite.

The unsightly symptoms are found on the soft, fleshy parts of women's thighs, buttocks, stomachs and upper arms. Though it is often associated with sedentary people, who are also overweight, the condition can make itself at home on the fit thighs and buttocks of marathon runners.

Opinions vary as to the exact causes of cellulite but most agree that something happens in the tissues to slow down and handicap the ordinary processes of lymph and blood circulation in the capillaries of the subcutaneous tissue. Some experts believe that excess fat will make the fat cells in the mesoderm swell, placing a strain on the surrounding connective tissue and resulting in a compromised microcirculation. Others believe that the situation is created by a genetic disposition coupled with hormonal imbalances.

The tissue responds to its embattled circumstances by forming extended tissue strands called septae that restrict the fat cells and cause the rippled, lumpy skin surface indicative of cellulite. The resulting sluggish and damaged microcirculation allows lymph fluid to leak into the surrounding tissue while hampering the transport of nutrients.

With this deeper understanding of exactly what is happening beneath the skin of the affected areas we can make informed decisions on what to do to alleviate the symptoms and revive the skin.

Here are some important aspects of a comprehensive cellulite reduction program:

Losing the Excess

Any plan to alleviate the symptoms of cellulite must include a healthy weight loss program for those carrying more than their healthy body weight. Excess weight causes fat cells to swell contributing to the tissue strain that results in the orange peel effect.

A diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as a good eight glasses of water a day to flush toxins, will begin the restorative process of proper nutrition at the point of origin. Making sure that your diet includes plenty of all the necessary vitamins especially B for stress, as well as C, bioflavonoids and minerals is a good way to begin the recovery process.

Eating Right

Vigorous exercise is an absolute necessity. It will help to stimulate sluggish circulation throughout the body as well as targeting the troubled areas. Regular exercise, at least three times a week for 40 minutes or more, will have far reaching effects on many of the body's systems, firing up metabolism and getting the lymph and blood flowing.

Laying on Hands and Lotion

Milder cases of cellulite can be ministered to by means of a good massage regime using one or other of the reputable creams and lotions on the market. Many creams contain natural botanical ingredients that are tissue decongestants as well as stimulants for the microcirculation.

Consider having a few deep tissue massages from experts and learn some tips. Go home and practice on yourself. The more attention the problem areas receive the more dynamic and alive the tissues will become. Circulation will improve and toxins can be convinced to evacuate.

Consulting the Real Experts

Serious cases of cellulite may benefit from the advice of real experts. You will have to employ serious discernment when figuring out whom to turn to. The Internet offers you unprecedented opportunities to check and recheck claims. Procedures can be thoroughly researched before deciding which program to go for. Be skeptical. In this day and age it is the reasonable response to the plethora of false promises that threaten to take advantage of the vulnerable.