The invention relates to small molecules having biological and therapeutic activity. Particularly, the invention relates to small molecules having lipolytic and anti-adipogenic activity. Two examples of such molecules are 4-methyl-2-(octanoylamino) pentanoic acid and N-isopentyloctanamide. The invention further relates to methods of preventing or treating skin conditions such as cellulite using small molecules having lipolytic and anti-adipogenic activity.