DIY CoolSculpting® has become a trendy topic for bloggers, YouTubers, and more. The appeal is understandable: wouldn’t it be great to simply strap an ice pack to your tummy and slim it down?
While this miracle solution sounds enticing, it isn’t really a valid treatment option. This blog post will explain why at-home versions of CoolSculpting are unsafe and fail to create the same results as a session at our Louisville or Lexington, KY, practices.
Understanding CoolSculpting
To understand why DIY CoolSculpting doesn’t work, it’s important to know the science behind the treatment: Cryolipolysis. Cryolipolysis is a noninvasive technique for cooling down body fat in order to break down fat cells.
During a CoolSculpting session, the machine suctions your fatty tissue between 2 cooling panels and applies a steady stream of cool air. These low temperatures freeze and destroy the fat cells. As the dead cells are naturally eliminated from the body, the layer of fat is reduced in size. Full results become gradually apparent over the course of 2 to 4 months.
Can an ice pack “freeze away” fat?
An ice pack can make things cold, but CoolSculpting requires more than just low temperatures.
Fat cells naturally recede from cold–meaning that if you press an ice pack against your skin, the fat will move out of reach while the skin tissue is damaged. The CoolSculpting machine prevents this problem by suctioning the fatty tissue in place. The fat cells are unable to recede and are successfully frozen.
These special applicators destroy fat cells while also keeping temperatures safe for skin tissue. The cool air used in a CoolSculpting treatment is strictly maintained between 39 and 41 degrees for this reason.
Trust the Professionals
Not only are ice packs ineffective, but they are also potentially dangerous. Pressing an ice pack against your body could cause skin damage, not a slimmer waist. Some potential side effects of DIY CoolSculpting include irritation, frostbite, and permanent tissue damage. The skin shouldn’t be directly exposed to cold temperatures for such an extended period of time.
During a supervised CoolSculpting treatment, the only side effects are temporary redness, numbness, and swelling. These issues will quickly fade, and patients can return to work or home immediately afterward. Be sure to trust only a certified provider to administer your CoolSculpting treatment. This professional attention will give you the results you want without damaging your skin.
DIY CoolSculpting is a creative idea with unintended side effects. By understanding the science behind the treatment, you can choose the safer option in a clinical setting. If you’re interested in eliminating those stubborn fatty areas with CoolSculpting in Lexington or Louisville, request a consultation online. You can also call the practice at (502) 814-3000 to schedule an appointment.
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