Cellulite, the popular, though curiously non-medical term, used to describe those rather annoying, rather unsightly, spongy, dimply deposits that render our thighs, bottoms, bellies and legs less than perfect, still alludes doctors and scientists of today. Sadly, this means a fail-proof method of treating the problem is still yet to be conceived.

Though not for want of trying. For since the 19th century, when the term was first coined, a multitude of creams, machines and regimes have been tried and tested - all with varied results. The good news is, as the years have advanced so has the technology, so while the treatments currently available won’t smooth the aforementioned areas completely the odds are in your favour for a noticeable, if not significant, improvement.

Now it’s all well and good if you can afford a regular Endermologie treatment, a lymphatic-drainage massage, or an infinite supply of caffeinated cream (such as Clarins High-Definition Body Lift) - all highly-prized, reportedly very sound treatments, by the way - but what is a girl to do when money is tight?

According to Dr Joshi, cellulite is caused by a build-up of toxins that when stored in regular fat cells have the propensity to “morph” into the kind known as cellulite. He believes by unlocking these toxins and filtering them, then ensuring the proper filtration of toxins absorbed by the body in the future, cellulite can be alleviated. Therefore he suggests embarking on his famed 21 Day Detox (‘Dr Joshi’s Holistic Detox: 21 Days to a Healthier, Slimmer You – For Life’), which focuses on returning the body to a “slightly alkaline” state, helping to improve it’s natural elimination processes along with it’s ability to use up stored fat (cellulite) as energy.

For much the same reasons, other nutritionists say to eat nutrient-rich foods, drink plenty of pure water and exercise daily, focusing on burning stored fat and boosting circulation to shift those stubborn bumps and lumps. Interval training, the use of kettlebells and free weights over stationary machines and dumb bells, and incorporating explosive jumping moves – try “springing up onto a small bench or step” – are said to be particularly beneficial.

Experts also recommend body brushing as a cheap, yet affective method. So too massaging problem areas and ending a hot shower with a quick burst of cold water.  Alternatively, visit a hammam – otherwise known as a Turkish, Korean or Roman bathhouse  - which essentially is an environment designed to purge toxins and excess water from the body. Take it from me; on a recent trip to Italy I visited two: Hammam Bleu Day Spa in Bologna and Acqua Madre in Rome, where after a two hours of rigorous, though surprisingly relaxing, steaming, buffing and ice bathing I saw very real results.

So, if cellulite is of particular concern to you - who doesn’t have it to some degree, quite frankly - now is the time target it. And the good news is, by adopting the lifestyle method over a solely cosmetic approach, you’ll improve your overall health and wellbeing as well.