Around 90% of women have cellulite. It’s an extremely common phenomenon. Some women embrace it, while others feel self-conscious about their orange-peel skin. There are many techniques to tackle it, including radiofrequency. Read on to find out everything you need to know about this method.
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What is radiofrequency treatment?
Radiofrequency (sometimes called thermofrequency) is a non-invasive aesthetic medicine technique that has been used for over 10 years. It works by emitting very high-frequency electromagnetic waves through the skin to produce controlled heating of the subcutaneous tissues, reaching between 39 and 42o approximately. This heat triggers:
- Contraction of the skin’s elastic fibres and connective tissue (including the fascia)
- Production of new collagen fibres
Effect on the skin: it regains firmness and tone. This is why radiofrequency is frequently used in anti-ageing medicine and to address stretch marks.
There are several types of radiofrequency devices (monopolar, bipolar, multipolar), each with different power levels. Radiofrequency can also be combined with pulsed light or ultrasound.
Why does radiofrequency work on cellulite?
If radiofrequency improves skin firmness, can it also help eliminate cellulite ? Absolutely! The heat generated by the electromagnetic waves will:
- Stimulate local microcirculation, leading to better oxygenation and nourishment of the dermis.
- Activate lymphatic drainage, helping to flush out toxins and waste more effectively.
- Promote the emptying of adipocytes, thereby reducing subcutaneous fat.
- Generate the formation of a new elastic network and reinforce the subdermal collagen structure, for firmer, more toned tissue.
As you can see, radiofrequency targets the various issues associated with cellulite, working towards smoother skin, a reduced orange-peel appearance and effective breakdown of the fat deposits responsible for adipose cell atrophy.
What happens during an anti-cellulite radiofrequency session?
Since radiofrequency is a non-invasive and painless technique, it generally requires no anaesthesia. Some patients, however, are sensitive to the heat sensation. In that case, the practitioner may apply a numbing cream or use a cold-air device beforehand.
Before any treatment, the aesthetic practitioner examines the area to be treated in order to assess skin quality (laxity, density and cellulite type) and draw up a session schedule. Sometimes the treatment area is mapped out using a grid traced onto the skin, allowing the practitioner to work with precision.
During the session, the practitioner first applies a gel to the skin to optimise device contact. They then massage the target area using a handpiece. The emitted waves gradually heat the treated zone while the handpiece performs continuous micro-suction movements across the skin. The heat sensation may be uncomfortable during the first few sessions, but the practitioner is there to monitor any reaction throughout the treatment. The warmth and any discomfort also tend to lessen as sessions progress.
Side effects, contraindications, duration and cost of radiofrequency
1- Prerequisites
First of all, it is worth noting that radiofrequency is suitable for all skin types and for both men and women. It delivers the best results on skin with moderate laxity. The technique is not particularly recommended (nor very effective) for mature skin. By “mature skin” we mean skin that shows the effects of time: sagging, loss of elasticity due to dehydration and reduced lipid levels. Beyond the age of 65, radiofrequency cellulite treatment is unlikely to be effective and could potentially damage the skin.
2- Side effects
What about the side effects of radiofrequency? They are minimal and resolve quickly (within 24 to 48 hours), and mainly consist of:
- redness
- heat-related sensitivity changes
- oedema
- temporary hyperpigmentation of the treated area
- blistering
- swelling
After a session, it is advisable to avoid sun exposure and high temperatures. It is also recommended to schedule radiofrequency sessions outside of the summer months.
3- Contraindications
Radiofrequency is not recommended for:
- People with a pacemaker or metal implant
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- People with skin conditions such as melanoma, rosacea, dermatosis, psoriasis or eczema…
- People with keloid scarring (i.e. raised, discoloured scars)
4- Treatment duration
Each session lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Multiple sessions are needed to see meaningful results on cellulite. Sessions are generally spaced one week apart, though they may be scheduled further apart for particularly sensitive skin. Initial results become visible after 3 to 5 sessions, with an optimal protocol of around 6 to 8 sessions in total.
5- Treatment cost
The price of an anti-cellulite radiofrequency session typically ranges from €100 to €200. Aesthetic practitioners often offer package rates, since radiofrequency requires multiple sessions to be effective.
How can you maximise the effectiveness of radiofrequency for reduced cellulite?
1- Adopt a healthy diet
The first step when looking to tackle cellulite is to take a closer look at your diet.
Whatever your cellulite type, it’s important to avoid processed and refined foods, which contain poor-quality fats and fast-release sugars — both of which contribute to cellulite formation.
If you tend to suffer from water-retention cellulite:
- Watch your intake of salt, which acts as a true “water trap”. Limit your consumption of cured meats, cheese, stock cubes and tinned fish (such as anchovies)…
- Favour low-glycaemic-index foods: fruits and vegetables, nuts, wholegrains and sprouted seeds, legumes.
- Choose foods rich in potassium : white beans, sweet potato, citrus fruits, avocado, banana, yoghurt, tomato…
If you tend to suffer from adipose cellulite :
- Opt for lighter, high-quality meals rich in vitamins and minerals (to avoid nutritional deficiencies).
- Choose foods rich in omega-3, such as oily fish, walnuts and quality oils (olive, flaxseed, grapeseed, evening primrose).
- Prioritise fruits and vegetables and lean protein sources (including plant-based proteins).
Finally, if you suffer from fibrous cellulite, the most stubborn kind:
- Cut out all sugars from your diet — including hidden sugars, light products, breakfast cereals and poor-quality dairy products such as flavoured yoghurts.
- Choose foods that support collagen production, such as fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, offal and oily fish (for their nutrients), and essential fatty acids (walnuts, avocado, rapeseed oil).
2- Exercise regularly
Physical activity is also a powerful ally against cellulite. Exercise offers multiple benefits, both for weight management and skin quality. The ultimate anti-cellulite fitness combo: pairing a cardio activity with a water-based sport. For example, you could alternate between the elliptical trainer and swimming, or Zumba and aqua aerobics. One word of caution: if your cellulite is water-related (i.e. if you are prone to venous insufficiency or water retention), avoid high-impact sports such as tennis, running, boxing or athletics, as these may worsen your cellulite. Complement your workout sessions with daily walking and/or fun activities (rollerblading, playing with your children, cycling). You’ll soon notice your skin regaining its firmness and those dimples starting to fade!
3- Build a skincare routine
If radiofrequency doesn’t appeal to you — too costly, not suitable, or simply too demanding — there are still effective alternatives that are more affordable and much easier to stick to! At Cellublue, we’ve developed a tried-and-tested anti-cellulite method. In just 21 days, it helps restore firmer skin and visibly reduce cellulite. The Pack Méthode Anti-cellulite Express helps reduce all types of cellulite, even the most stubborn. Our pack includes:
- Our now iconic Ventouse Cellublue, a compact cupping tool that’s remarkably effective on dimples! It replicates the renowned palper-rouler massage technique in just a few simple movements!
- Our Cellulite Massage Oil, perfect for daily massage. It leaves skin feeling soft while boosting microcirculation.
- The Masseur Peau d’Orange, a clever little massager that’s easy to use and helps smooth skin and drain cellulite. Just 3 minutes of daily massage is all it takes! From the very first week of use, 85% of users noticed a visible improvement in cellulite on their thighs and buttocks.
- The Cellulite Scrub, enriched with caffeine to help break down fat, designed for use in the shower. It exfoliates, leaves skin beautifully scented (we love the monoi!) and, above all, visibly smooths the skin’s surface.
Whether you want to extend the benefits of your radiofrequency sessions or carry out your anti-cellulite routine at home, our products are here to help you win the battle against orange-peel skin.
