In a recent report by Allergan, an enormous 64% of people globally said that looking fit and healthy is one of the most important factors when it comes to feeling confident. In fact, the same report revealed that over half of consumers would consider a non-invasive body contouring treatment. So, it’s no surprise that non-surgical alternatives to liposuction, such as CoolSculpting and SculpSure, have become so popular in the last few years.
Both FDA-approved, non-invasive aesthetic treatments, able to permanently destroy fat cells from the thighs, tummy, upper arms, flanks and under the chin, via lipolysis, the two have quite a bit in common - but there are some key differences to these two fat reduction and body sculpting treatments too. So, how do you know which one’s right for you? Let’s have a look at exactly how CoolSculpting and SculpSure are different.
What technology do CoolSculpting and SculpSure use?
The main difference between CoolSculpting and SculpSure is the technology behind them. CoolSculpting is a type of cryolipolysis (or fat freezing to you and me). This means that the fat is targeted using really cold temperatures, which crystallise the fat cells and break them down, but don’t damage the skin. A vacuum applicator is placed on the target area, and this works by sucking up the skin in that area. Once the fat is in place, the plates are cooled right down.
Instead, SculpSure uses laser technology that heats and melts the fat cells. A belt is wrapped around the area being treated, and templates that change in temperature are inserted into the belt to target the area of fat.
Both of the fat reduction treatments kill off the fat cells for good, and the cells are naturally removed via the liver. Bye-bye fat!
Do CoolSculpting and SculpSure hurt?
When it comes to pain, CoolSculpting and SculpSure are on kind of a level playing field - both more of a discomfort than painful. As the name suggests, CoolSculpting is pretty cold, which can be quite uncomfortable for the first ten minutes or so. But after this, the area being treated goes numb, and you won’t be able to feel anything - like a chilly anaesthetic.
SculpSure cools (but not to the same extent as CoolSculpting), and then gradually heats up to a point where you’ll feel fairly uncomfortable, and then it cools again, providing some well-needed relief. This hot and cold pattern lasts the duration of the treatment.
Which is quicker? CoolSculpting or SculpSure?
Both CoolSculpting and SculpSure are fairly speedy treatments, but out of the two, SculpSure is the quicker treatment, lasting just 25 minutes per area. CoolSculpting takes around 60 minutes per area. So, it all comes down to how much time you have to spare, but both are pretty quick when you think about the long-lasting effects.
What’s the downtime after CoolSculpting and SculpSure?
Because they’re both non-invasive treatments, the great thing is that there’s no downtime with either, so you can get on with your day as usual after both CoolSculpting and SculpSure. Compared to a surgical treatment such as liposuction, where you’re recovering for months, this is pretty impressive.
What are the side effects of CoolSculpting and SculpSure?
In terms of side effects, there are a few more with CoolSculpting than there are with SculpSure, but they are manageable. A few of the more common CoolSculpting side effects are soreness, bruising and tingling, which can persist for a few hours after the treatment. With SculpSure, side effects include light bruising, and often feels like you’ve done a ton of sit ups - but without the joy(?!) of having done any.
How many CoolSculpting or SculpSure treatments will I need?
Some people see results straight away after both treatments, but to get the best possible results, practitioners will generally recommend having 2-3 sessions for both CoolSculpting and SculpSure. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and you should see a pretty impressive difference.
CoolSculpting and SculpSure work best on people who are in relatively good shape but want to shift stubborn areas of fat. If you’re looking for overall weight loss, speak to your practitioner, who will be able to give you advice on the best treatment for you.
Find out more about the different non-invasive fat reduction and body contouring treatments out there here.
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