Cellulite is an extremely common skin condition that causes dimpled flesh on the hips, thighs, abdomen, and buttocks. It is completely harmless, and is most common in women because women’s fat is usually distributed in common areas for cellulite.

While it is not exactly known what causes cellulite, it involves fibrous connective cords that connect the skin to the underlying muscle, with the fat lying in between. As fat cells accumulate, they push up against the skin while the cords pull down. This can create a dimpling appearance to the skin. While weight gain can make cellulite more noticeable, slim people can have cellulite as well. It also tends to run in families, so genetics may play a role in who develops cellulite and who doesn’t.

There are three different grades that rank the severity of cellulite, which include:

• Grade 1-Mild: There is an “orange-peel” appearance, with between one and four superficial depressions, and a slightly “draped” or sagging appearance to the skin.
• Grade 2- Moderate: There are between five and nine medium-depth depressions, a “cottage cheese” appearance, and the skin appears moderately draped.
• Grade 3-Severe: There is a “mattress” appearance, with 10 or more deep depressions, and the skin is severely draped.