CoolSculpting vs CoolShaping: Which Body Contouring Treatment is Best for You?
Non-invasive body contouring offers safe options for removing unwanted fat. With no surgery and minimal downtime, many people choose these treatments to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence.
CoolSculpting and CoolShaping are non-invasive procedures that remove unwanted fat. While they both achieve this through controlled freezing technology, they have many differences, including cost, provider training, and regulations.
Wondering which treatment is right for you?
Discover the key differences between CoolSculpting and CoolShaping to find which one best fits your budget, goals, and safety concerns.
What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a non-invasive body contouring procedure that freezes and eliminates unwanted fat cells through a process called cryolipolysis. Backed by extensive clinical studies, this procedure has shown high satisfaction rates and noticeable fat reduction.1 Commonly offered in medspas and dermatology clinics, CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared brand name.
While state and local regulations may vary, ZELTIQ, the company that developed CoolSculpting, requires providers to undergo training to perform this procedure. Some states may also require specific licensing. Others allow trained technicians to perform CoolSculpting under the supervision of a physician.
What Areas Can I Treat With CoolSculpting?
Most CoolSculpting devices treat one area at a time. However, CoolSculpting Elite is a newer device that can treat two at once.
The following areas can be treated with CoolSculpting:
Are There Any Side Effects from CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting has mild side effects that usually subside within a few days to a week. Common side effects include minor redness, swelling, and bruising. It’s possible to experience numbness in the treated area, but this side effect typically resolves within a few weeks. Generally, this procedure does not require downtime, and most clients can return to their daily routine immediately after treatment.
What is CoolShaping?
CoolShaping is a non-invasive treatment that uses cryolipolysis to reduce fat and contour the body. It is similar to CoolSculpting but is a broader term that refers to other devices that eliminate fat through cryolipolysis.
The quality of CoolShaping can vary in quality due to the specific device used and the provider’s experience. Some devices feature LED technology that stimulates collagen production. This increase in collagen can help smooth and tighten the skin.
Generally, CoolShaping is more affordable than CoolSculpting. One reason it’s less expensive is that CoolShaping typically is not FDA-cleared in the U.S. This treatment may be available in beauty clinics or spas.
What Areas Can I Treat With CoolShaping?
CoolShaping devices are designed with dual application systems. This feature allows providers to treat two different areas simulatneously.
Common treatment areas include:
Are There Any Side Effects From CoolShaping?
The common side effects of CoolShaping include redness, swelling, tenderness, and tingling. They usually subside within a few days to two weeks. Numbness could also occur and last up to 12 weeks. Generally, most people do not need downtime and can return to their normal routine immediately after their treatment.
CoolSculpting vs CoolShaping: Key Differences
CoolSculpting and CoolShaping are similar treatments that contour the body through cryolipolysis. However, they have the following differences.
Technology and Safety
CoolSculpting features patented, FDA-cleared, consistent temperature control to prevent freezer burns. Its safety sensors monitor skin temperature and automatically shut down if the skin gets too cold. This treatment is generally well-tolerated and safe for most people.
CoolShaping uses similar methods to CoolSculpting but lacks regulatory oversight in many regions. It is not yet FDA-approved in the U.S. but CE (Conformité Européenne) certified in Europe. Some CoolShaping devices also feature safety sensors that prevent overcooling. However, not all CoolShaping devices have the same features, so safety protocols and device quality differ.
Clinical Evidence and Results
Many peer-reviewed studies show the safety and efficacy of CoolSculpting. These studies have found that this treatment is generally safe, has a high patient satisfaction rate, and provides minimal side effects and downtime.
While individual results may vary, clinical research has shown that CoolSculpting can reduce fat by 20-25% in the treated area after one session. Some clients begin to see results within a few weeks, and the full outcome typically develops 1 to 3 months after treatment. Most people need 2 to 3 sessions to achieve their desired results. Once CoolSculpting freezes and eliminates fat cells, they cannot grow back. A healthy lifestyle helps clients maintain optimal results from this treatment.
While CoolShaping uses the same cryolipolysis technology as CoolSculpting, there are fewer published clinical studies, and the results from this treatment may vary. CoolSculpting received FDA clearance in 2010 and has been researched more thoroughly, whereas CoolShaping is a relatively newer treatment.
On average 2-3 sessions are needed for each treated area, but this number depends on the client’s cosmetic goals. Like CoolSculpting, the results from this treatment are considered permanent.
Provider Training and Oversight
Providers need to be certified by ZELTIQ, the company that developed CoolSculpting, to perform this procedure. CoolSculpting University offers advanced training and hands-on practice for providers learning to perform this treatment. This high level of training allows providers to deliver safe and effective treatments, ensuring consistent results while minimizing risks. Most CoolSculpting providers have a medical background. However, sometimes the procedure is performed by a specialist under the supervision of a physician.
Unlike CoolSculpting, CoolShaping may be performed by unlicensed providers or less-trained practitioners. As a result, the quality of service can vary greatly from one provider to another. Providers can undergo training for CoolShaping, but its program may not be as comprehensive as the program at CoolSculpting University.
Price Comparison
Generally, this treatment costs more due to its brand name, strong reputation, and clinical research backing. CoolSculpting may cost more money, but it comes with a proven track record of being a generally safe and effective procedure. Since its providers undergo advanced training, they can offer great expertise and deliver consistent treatments. While it may cost more, it may be worth it for a safer experience, professional training, and a track record of reliable outcomes.
CoolShaping may be less expensive than CoolSculpting, but it also comes with more risks. Since CoolShaping is not FDA-cleared in the U.S. and provider training and expertise varies, the quality of treatment may be inconsistent. While its price tag might be tempting, the higher price of CoolSculpting is often worth the value.
CoolSculpting vs CoolShaping: Pros and Cons
While CoolSculpting and CoolShaping both reduce fat using cryolipolysis, they differ in regulation, clinical backing, and provider training. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the pros and cons.
| CoolSculpting | CoolShaping | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Proven results, FDA-cleared treatment, certified providers | Lower cost, wider availability |
| Cons | Higher price, may require multiple sessions | Unpredictable results, lower regulation |
CoolSculpting and CoolShaping reduce unwanted fat through controlled freezing. Both of these non-invasive procedures can effectively contour the body without the risks, potential complications, and cost of surgery.
However, CoolSculpting offers several advantages over CoolShaping. Its FDA clearance, clinical backing, and thoroughly trained providers make it a highly sought-after body contouring treatment. While CoolShaping may be more affordable, it comes with less oversight and unpredictable results.
CoolSculpting vs CoolShaping: Which Treatment is Right For You?
If you’re thinking of contouring your body with cryolipolysis, CoolSculpting and CoolShaping are non-invasive options to consider. While they both use the same freezing method to reduce body fat, they aren’t the same procedure. When deciding on treatment, it’s important to keep your goals, safety concerns, and budget in mind.
FDA-cleared treatments offer greater safety and efficacy. Advanced training programs and protocols help ensure that your provider is well-trained, knowledgeable, and skilled at performing your treatment. This knowledge and training helps minimize risks and maximize your results, which is why CoolSculpting offers a greater advantage to CoolShaping. While the latter may come at a lower price, many find the value of CoolSculpting worth the extra cost.
To see which procedure is best for you, schedule a consultation with a reputable medspa or clinic. A specialist will determine which option is safest and most effective based on your needs. Providers with expertise and training can also tailor a treatment plan to achieve your cosmetic goals.
Contour Your Body Safely with CoolSculpting in Denver, CO
Cryolipolysis can safely eliminate unwanted fat from your body without the need for surgery. If you’re considering a cryolipolysis treatment, you need to weigh the pros and cons to decide which is best for you.
While CoolShaping is more affordable, it comes with trade-offs. Ultimately, its training and regulatory standards aren’t as high as CoolSculpting. With FDA approval, clinical backing, and a track record of efficacy, CoolSculpting is the gold standard for fat freezing. Your body deserves a safe and effective treatment.
As the leading provider of CoolSculpting in Denver, Westminster, and Colorado Springs, our staff at Hollywood Body & Face is highly trained in delivering a safe body contouring treatment. Call 303-872-7107 to schedule a free consultation in Denver.