Cryolipolysis to reduce cellulite through cold.

Cryolipolysis is a noninvasive technique that involves exposing fat cells to intense cold to destroy them. A device is used during a cryolipolysis session to apply targeted cooling to the desired areas. Skin and fat cell temperatures drop to between -5 and -10°C. Fat cells are more sensitive to cold than other skin cells because they consist of lipids with a higher freezing point. At this temperature, lipids form ice crystals. This crystallization damages adipocyte cell membranes and disrupts their integrity. Apoptosis, a mechanism of cell death, begins and releases fats from the cells into the body, where they are eliminated by the lymphatic system over the following weeks. Results do not appear immediately. It takes one to three months for the cells to break down and evacuate naturally.

Although its main use is reducing localized fat deposits, some studies suggest it may have an indirect beneficial effect on the appearance of cellulite adipose. When these cells are destroyed by cold, the amount of fat in the treated area decreases, which may reduce the appearance of dimpling.

A study published in Dermatologic Surgery aimed to assess cryolipolysis efficacy for reducing fat deposits and its effects on skin texture, laxity, and cellulite. After 16 weeks, 11 subjects who underwent cryolipolysis reported a notable improvement in skin firmness and elasticity, as well as reduced thigh dimpling, rated on a scale of 0 to 3 (3 indicating significant improvement). On average, cellulite improvement was rated at 1.5, suggesting a moderate effect. However, some participants observed a greater improvement, ranging from moderate to significant (score of 2 to 3).

These findings should be interpreted with caution, as the small sample size and few studies do not confirm the direct effectiveness of cryolipolysis in reducing cellulite.

This technique is suitable for treating body areas such as the abdomen, inner thighs, back, love handles, and infragluteal folds. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is also unsuitable for individuals prone to cold-related conditions such as cold urticaria or hernias.

Scientists report that cells that die cannot reproduce. However, if a person regains weight, since remaining cells can still expand, new unsightly areas may appear. Cryolipolysis yields satisfactory results on adipose cellulite. It is less effective on aqueous cellulite caused by poor circulation or fluid retention. It does not affect fibrous cellulite, which is painful and long-standing.

Side effects may appear after treatment, such as redness or slight swelling at the treated site. Some people report discomfort. Sometimes they experience pain or tingling, including burns, peripheral sensory neuropathies, hyperpigmentation or inguinal hernias at the treated site. These issues subside after 15 days. The dermatologist examines the skin before cryolipolysis to prevent them.