As CoolSculpting® grows increasingly popular, copycat versions have begun appearing online. Freezing away the fat with a special belt or ice pack might seem like a miracle solution, but these DIY treatments often do more harm than good.
The science behind successful CoolSculpting involves more than just cold temperatures. In this blog post, I will explain why DIY versions fall short and why patients can expect better results from a professional CoolSculpting session at my Naples, FL, practice.
How does CoolSculpting work?
CoolSculpting works due to its patented “Cryolipolysis” technology. This term comes from the Greek roots of cryo (meaning cold), lipo (meaning fat), and lysis (meaning dissolution or loosening). By carefully cooling fatty tissue at specific temperatures, fat cells freeze and eventually die off. As the body sheds these dead fat cells, the fatty tissue shrinks in size.
By targeting specific areas with CoolSculpting applicators, your provider can freeze away stubborn fat deposits. This helps reshape the contours of the body and slim your silhouette. Your results develop over time, so CoolSculpting sessions are often performed in a series. Most patients can see the full effects of their treatments after 2 to 4 months.
Can an ice pack freeze away fat?
The simple answer: no. An ice pack cannot freeze away fat. Ice packs do not apply consistent cold temperatures that are safe for your skin. Also, because fat cells shrink away from the cold if not held in place, fatty tissue will not be reduced. The fat cells will move away from the skin surface, and only skin cells will feel the impact of the cold.
Professional CoolSculpting applicators prevent this issue by suctioning the fatty tissue in place. Because the fat cells aren’t able to move away, they are successfully frozen while the surrounding skin remains undamaged.
Stay safe–and trust a professional
Ice packs and cooling belts cannot maintain specific temperatures. There is no way to control how they affect your skin. Exposing your skin to these conditions can potentially create dangerous side effects, such as irritation, redness, nerve damage, or even frostbite.
CoolSculpting machines are specially designed to maintain temperatures between 39 and 41 degrees. This “safe zone” keeps skin cells healthy while also shrinking the target layer of fat. Always trust a professional to monitor your CoolSculpting treatment. Your provider will make sure you’re in a comfortable environment throughout the treatment process.
DIY CoolSculpting may sound like an innovative idea, but its unintended consequences aren’t safe for your health. Never hold an ice pack against your skin for an extended period of time.
To see the results a professional CoolSculpting session can create, browse our before-and-after gallery. If you would like to learn more about your CoolSculpting options here in the Fort Myers-Naples area, request a consultation online or call (239) 262-5662.
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