Cryolipolysis vs Aqualyx: A Simple Comparison for Fat Reduction
Both Cryolipolysis (fat freezing) and Aqualyx (fat-dissolving injections) are popular treatments for reducing stubborn fat in specific areas of the body. While both treatments aim to target fat cells, they do so in different ways. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide which might be right for you.
Cryolipolysis (Fat Freezing)
- What it is: A non-invasive, device-based treatment that uses controlled cooling to freeze and destroy fat cells.
- How it works: Fat cells are exposed to cold temperatures, causing them to break down. Your body then naturally eliminates the dead fat cells over time.
- Results: 20% fat reduction per treatment on average. Visible results appear in about 2-4 months.
- Safety: Clinically proven with rare risks like paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where fat in the treated area can grow instead of reducing. This can usually be treated with surgery.
- Best for: Individuals looking for a non-surgical, gradual fat reduction in areas like the stomach, thighs, or chin.
Aqualyx (Fat Dissolving Injections)
- What it is: An injectable treatment that uses sodium deoxycholate, a substance that dissolves fat cells when injected into the skin.
- How it works: The active ingredient breaks down the fat cells, which are then absorbed and eliminated by the body. Aqualyx can be used for localized fat areas like the chin, abdomen, thighs, and love handles.
- Results: Results are typically seen after 2–3 sessions (depending on the area treated), with up to 50% fat reduction in the treated area over a few months.
- Safety: Aqualyx is clinically proven with a solid safety profile. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and tenderness, but these are temporary and should resolve after a few days.
- Best for: Those looking for a minimally invasive, injectable option with faster results compared to fat freezing.
Key Differences Between Cryolipolysis and Aqualyx
| Feature | Cryolipolysis (Fat Freezing) | Aqualyx (Fat Dissolving Injections) |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment Type | Non-surgical, cooling treatment | Injectable fat-dissolving solution |
| How It Works | Uses cooling to freeze fat cells, which are then eliminated by the body | Injections of sodium deoxycholate to break down fat cells |
| Results | Gradual reduction (about 20% per treatment); results visible in 2-4 months | Up to 50% fat reduction over 2-3 sessions; results visible within weeks |
| Areas Treated | Abdomen, thighs, flanks, chin, arms | Chin, abdomen, thighs, love handles, knees |
| Safety Profile | Proven, rare side effects (e.g., PAH) | Clinically proven with mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness; no long-term risks |
| Treatment Duration | 35-60 minutes per area | 30-60 minutes per session, depending on the area treated |
| Downtime | Minimal; mild discomfort, redness, and numbness post-treatment | Minimal downtime; swelling, bruising, and tenderness for a few days |
| Best For | Those looking for non-invasive, gradual fat reduction | Those seeking faster results with an injectable solution |
Which One Should You Choose?
- Cryolipolysis is ideal if you want non-invasive fat reduction and can wait a few months for gradual results. It’s perfect for larger areas or if you’re looking for long-term contouring with a lower risk of complications, though PAH (rare fat regrowth) is a concern.
- Aqualyx is a good option for smaller, more stubborn fat deposits, especially if you want quicker results. It’s especially effective in areas like the double chin and love handles and involves fewer sessions, with results visible after just a few weeks.
For faster results and a minimally invasive approach, Aqualyx may be the best choice. However, for larger treatment areas and a non-surgical approach, Cryolipolysis remains a solid option with proven results.
Final Thoughts
- Choose Cryolipolysis if you want non-invasive, gradual fat reduction without the need for injections and have time to wait for results. It’s particularly good for body areas like the belly, thighs, and flanks.
- Choose Aqualyx if you’re looking for quick results and are comfortable with injectables. It’s ideal for smaller fat areas like the chin, neck, and jawline.
References
- Cryolipolysis efficacy: Ingargiola MJ et al. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2015—review: calliper 14.7–28.5%, ultrasound 10.3–25.5% reduction. PubMed
- Cryolipolysis overview/time course: General mechanism & results over months. PMC
- PAH after cryolipolysis: Nikolis A et al. Aesthet Surg J Open Forum. 2020—0.05–0.39% per‑cycle incidence across 8,658 cycles. PMC
- ATX‑101 (deoxycholic acid) RCTs for submental fat: REFINE‑1 (Dermatol Surg 2016) & REFINE‑2 (JAAD 2016). PubMed+1
- Aqualyx composition, sessions & protocol: Manufacturer brochure (desoxycholic acid; ~3–5 sessions, with brief external ultrasound). MD Medical
- Aqualyx CE‑marked device (UK context): ConsultingRoom treatment licence overview. consultingroom.com
- Aqualyx observational/experience data: Rauso R, Salti G. Aesthetic Surg J. 2015—4‑year experience (186 patients) reporting mainly transient AEs. OUP Academic
- Aqualyx serious but rare events: Di Toro G. Aesthetic Surg J. 2016—skin necrosis case report; Shahid S. 2022—chronic infection/nodules after DC‑based injection. OUP Academic
