Cryolipolysis

Where does cryolipolysis come from?

It was developed by dermatologist Rox Anderson (Harvard), based on a long-standing observation: fatty tissue reacts to cold more than other tissues. The first clinical studies were carried out at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.

The principle

Cryo (cold), lipo (fat), lysis (destruction). The fat roll is drawn into a handpiece by suction and deeply cooled for about an hour: the fat in the adipocytes crystallises and triggers their programmed cell death. Part is eliminated within a few days by the lymphatic system, the rest gradually over a few weeks.

The heating phase

The latest devices start with a short heating phase that prepares the fat before cooling, so as to work on all body types.

Which clients?

It is not a weight-loss method: it is intended for people who are not obese (BMI below 30) who want to reduce localised fat deposits on the stomach, love handles, thighs, saddlebags, back or arms.

How a session works

Consultation and medical history questionnaire, measurement of the skin fold and waist circumference, follow-up photos. The area is drawn in by suction, heated for about 5 minutes and then cooled for about 55 minutes. The intense cold lasts only a few minutes; the client can read or rest. The area is vigorously massaged at the end of the session.

Results and number of sessions

The result appears gradually: around 20% at 15 days, 80% at 2 months and 100% at 3 months. One or two sessions per area are usually enough, the second 1 to 2 months after the first. Destroyed adipocytes do not come back as long as weight remains stable.

Prolonging the result

During the following three months, a balanced diet, good hydration and regular physical activity, such as walking, enhance the effect of the treatment.

A profitable treatment for your business

Few or no consumables, no intervention during the session and self-cleaning that protects the device. Integrate it with personalised consultations, a follow-up protocol and combinations with your other body treatments.

Choosing the right machine

Certifications, clinical studies, manufacturer reputation, user feedback, training and after-sales service. Portable devices mainly cool at the surface and are less suitable for thick fat rolls.

The different handpieces

Classic cryodes with two Peltier plates only cool two sides of the fat roll; some so-called 360° cryodes only cool the top; silicone-covered 360° cryodes cool the entire suctioned surface.

Maintenance

Cleaning of surfaces and disinfection of applicators after each treatment, checking for wear, replacing filters, regular technical inspections and distilled water for the water circuits.

Cryolipolysis and cryotherapy

Both use cold, but cryotherapy targets well-being and recovery, while cryolipolysis targets body contouring.