Cellulite affects the vast majority of women. Slim or curvy, almost no woman is spared. What if technology could help get rid of it? Shock wave treatment, originally used in urology, has gradually expanded into a range of new applications — including aesthetic medicine, where it is now used to target cellulite. Here’s a closer look at this promising therapy.
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How does shock wave treatment work against cellulite?
Behind this rather intimidating name lies a non-invasive, painless procedure. To understand how shock waves work, it helps to look more closely at the different stages of cellulite development:
- Stage 1: early signs of impaired skin microcirculation, with no visible symptoms.
- Stage 2: development of the orange peel appearance, with vasodilation and water release into the intercellular space (i.e. between adipocytes).
- Stage 3: onset of fibrosis, with an increase in the number of adipocytes, their size and membrane thickness; cellulite becomes thicker and more hardened.
- Stage 4: sclerosis phase, with progressive thickening and stiffening of the fibrous tissue.
Shock wave treatment therefore aims to:
- Restore microcirculation, slowed down by hypertrophied adipocytes (overloaded with fat)
- Reduce fibrosis and soften hardened collagen fibres (connective tissue)
- Stimulate lipolysis, i.e. the draining of adipocytes
- Stimulate the production of “new” collagen
Shock waves — which are in fact acoustic waves — emit vibrations that travel through the different layers of the skin to reach the cellulite.
What happens during a shock wave session?
- The doctor or practitioner begins by identifying the area to be treated, following careful palpation and examination of the skin.
- The skin is then cleansed and coated with a conductive gel.
- The transmitter device is passed over the treatment area several times. The sensation is not painful and feels similar to a vigorous massage.
Each session lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. Shock wave treatment can be applied to larger areas (thighs, stomach, buttocks), as well as smaller, more targeted zones where cellulite can be particularly stubborn (knees, arms, love handles).
What are the effects of shock wave treatment on cellulite?
1- Results
Around ten sessions of shock wave therapy are recommended to achieve good results on hardened cellulite. That said, the first positive effects can be noticed after just a few sessions. After around 4 sessions, there is already a visible improvement in skin texture and a reduction in the typical bumpy, dimpled appearance of orange peel skin. Ultimately, the silhouette is reshaped and the cellulite visibly smoothed. Skin appearance continues to improve even after the treatment has ended, thanks to the formation of new collagen fibres and the revival of blood microcirculation. Results vary in longevity depending on lifestyle habits. Maintenance sessions are recommended (every 1 to 2 months).
2- Side effects
Shock wave treatment may cause some unwanted side effects, such as:
- Redness
- Muscle soreness or discomfort
- Minor bruising or haematomas that resolve quickly
- Petechiae
- Temporary swelling and numbness in the treated area
Are there any contraindications to shock wave treatment?
Like all aesthetic treatments, shock wave therapy is not recommended for:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and minors
- People with an active infection or inflammatory condition
- Patients with clotting disorders or on anticoagulant therapy
- Patients with a pacemaker
- Patients with skin conditions or tumours
- People on corticosteroid treatment
- Haemophiliacs
Who performs shock wave treatment and what does it cost?
Shock wave treatment for aesthetic purposes — reducing the appearance of cellulite — must be performed by a qualified aesthetic doctor. Sessions are not covered by health insurance, as they aim to improve the appearance of cellulite rather than treat a medical condition. It is not advisable to undergo shock wave treatment for cellulite outside of a medical setting.
As for the price, it will depend on the size of the area being treated. As a general guide, for shock wave treatment alone (i.e. not combined with lipolysis reduction, mesotherapy or cryotherapy), expect to pay between €50 and €100 per session.
What are the alternatives to shock wave treatment?
If you want to tackle your cellulite but are hesitant about visiting an aesthetic doctor — or if the cost of shock wave treatment is a barrier — you can absolutely build an effective anti-cellulite routine… at home!
In fact, the appearance of your cellulite (including fibrous cellulite) can be significantly improved with the right cosmetic care and regular massage! Our Anti-Cellulite Method Pack gives you everything you need to take on cellulite — even the most stubborn kind! It includes:
- A scrub made with natural ingredients, to smooth orange peel skin
- Massage oils to prepare the skin
- Massage accessories, including our iconic Cellublue Cup and our Orange Peel Massager, to break down even the most resistant cellulite!
- Two PDF guides — coaching and support — so you’re never left alone in the fight against dimples
With our routine, start seeing a reduction in the bumpy, uneven texture of orange peel skin in as little as 21 days! Massage helps to “break up” stubborn cellulite (thanks to the suction effect of the cup), boost microcirculation through the draining action of the massager (with its nodules), and deeply nourish your skin (hydration and firmness from natural plant oils). And let’s not forget the feel-good factor: this anti-cellulite routine is also a chance to reconnect with your body, treat yourself, and carve out a little time that’s just for you!
