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Red Light Therapy vs. CoolSculpting: Which Is Better For Weight Loss?

Last Reviewed on April 1, 2024

Delve into the science, benefits, and real-world results of these two popular techniques: red light therapy vs. CoolSculpting.

Choosing the best method for weight loss can be a challenging decision. In the ultimate battle between red light therapy and CoolSculpting, which one will reign supreme?

Let’s delve into the details to find out.

Red Light Therapy vs. CoolSculpting: The Summary

Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level red light wavelengths to stimulate cellular activity. It has been claimed to promote weight loss by increasing metabolism and fat breakdown.

On the other hand, CoolSculpting is a non-surgical fat reduction procedure that freezes and eliminates stubborn fat cells.

Both methods have their pros and cons.

Red light therapy is painless and does not require any downtime, making it a convenient option. It can also be used in combination with other weight loss techniques. However, its effectiveness for fat loss is still a topic of debate, with limited scientific evidence to support its claims.

CoolSculpting, on the other hand, has been clinically proven to reduce fat in targeted areas. It is FDA-approved and has a higher success rate in removing fat cells. However, it can be more expensive and may require multiple sessions for optimal results.

Now, let’s discuss each individual therapy more in-depth.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate healing and promote wellness in the body. These therapeutic wavelengths of light penetrate deep into the skin, targeting cells and tissues to kickstart a cascade of benefits.

It’s a cutting-edge treatment that harnesses the power of light to heal and rejuvenate.

Man sitting between two red light therapy panels

So, how does it work?

The red light stimulates the mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells, to produce more energy. This increase in cellular energy helps the body repair and regenerate at a faster rate.

It’s like giving your cells a much-needed boost, allowing them to do their job more efficiently.

Through this, red LED light therapy may even help boost metabolism and promote weight loss.

One study looked at red light therapy’s impact on human adipose tissue. Researchers found that low-level laser therapy reduced the size of fat cells by opening up transitory pores in the cell membrane. This opening allowed fat content to move from inside to outside the cell [1].

A 2020 randomized pilot study measured the impact of low-level laser therapy in 60 overweight adults. After 6 weeks of treatment, patients reported modest improvements in weight, waist circumference, body mass index, and body fat mass [2]. 

Another study looked at red light therapy’s impact on abdominal girth. Using a combination of red (630nm), near-infrared (808nm), and blue (450nm) light, patients experienced significant reductions in upper, middle, and lower abdomen size [3].

Benefits

The beauty of red light therapy lies in its versatility. It can be used for a range of purposes, from skin rejuvenation to weight loss.

Red light therapy can also help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation can hinder weight loss efforts by slowing down metabolism and causing weight gain. By reducing inflammation, red light therapy can help optimize the body’s natural processes for burning fat and shedding pounds.

But, it doesn’t stop there.

Red light therapy has also been shown to improve blood circulation and collagen production. This can lead to improved skin elasticity and tone, making you look and feel better as you lose weight.

And, the best part?

Red light therapy is a non-invasive and painless treatment that can be easily incorporated into your daily routine. Whether you choose to visit a professional clinic or invest in a home-use device, incorporating red light therapy into your weight loss journey can be a game-changer.

It’s a natural, holistic approach to health and wellness.

Woman sitting in front of a red light therapy panel

Limitations

First and foremost, it’s vital to note that red light therapy is not a magical cure-all. It cannot fix every problem or ailment that you may have. It’s simply a tool that can potentially aid in your weight loss journey. It’s essential to manage your expectations and not rely solely on red light therapy for all your health concerns.

Additionally, red light therapy may not work for everyone. Each individual is unique, and different bodies may respond differently to the treatment. What works for one person may not work for another. It’s crucial to keep this in mind and not expect immediate results or miracles.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of red light therapy can depend on various factors. The quality and power of the device used, the duration and frequency of treatments, and the specific condition being treated can all impact the outcome. It’s important to do thorough research, consult with professionals, and follow the recommended guidelines for optimal results.

It’s also worth mentioning that red light therapy should not replace traditional medical treatments or interventions. While it may complement certain therapies, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care. It’s always crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any new treatment or therapy.

What Is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive body contouring procedure that helps freeze and eliminate stubborn fat cells. It works by using a revolutionary process called cryolipolysis. This fancy term essentially means that fat cells are frozen and destroyed (at the treatment site), while the surrounding tissues remain unharmed. These “dead” fat cells are then naturally eliminated from your body via your immune system.

(It’s like giving those fat cells the cold shoulder and saying goodbye forever.)

What’s more, in clinical studies, cryolipolysis was shown to reduce subcutaneous fat by up to 25% after a single treatment [4]!

Woman using CoolSculpting on her abdomen

Benefits

CoolSculpting is a safe and effective alternative to surgical procedures like liposuction, with minimal downtime. The results of a CoolSculpting treatment can be long-lasting, and the treatment can be customized to target various areas of concern.

The best part is that it’s a completely non-invasive procedure. No need for needles or anesthesia. Just sit back, relax, and let the technology do its thing. And, unlike other fat reduction methods, there’s no need for incisions or scars. CoolSculpting is all about getting results without any of the drawbacks.

Limitations

First and foremost, CoolSculpting is not a magical solution. It may be able to target and freeze fat cells, but that doesn’t mean it will give you instant results. Some people may require multiple treatments to see any noticeable changes.

So, if you’re expecting a quick fix, you may be disappointed.

Another limitation of CoolSculpting is that it can only used on one treatment area at a time. CoolSculpting is primarily designed to treat excess fat on larger areas like the abdomen, thighs, and arms.

Furthermore, CoolSculpting is not a permanent solution. While it can help to reduce fat in the treated area, it doesn’t prevent new fat cells from forming elsewhere in the body. This means that if you aren’t careful with your diet and exercise habits, you could end up right back where you started.

Lastly, CoolSculpting is not without its risks. Although it is considered a non-invasive procedure, there have been reports of complications such as skin redness, bruising, and even nerve damage. While these risks are relatively rare, they are still something to consider before undergoing the treatment.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the choice between red light therapy and CoolSculpting depends on individual preferences and goals. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine which treatment option is best suited for your needs. Remember to consider factors such as budget, desired results, and potential side effects before making a decision.

References

  1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12172159/
  2. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10103-019-02867-5
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5642174/
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4079633/
Anne, Founder of Therapeutic Beams

Anne Linde

Since using it to clear up her acne in college, Anne has been an avid user and fan of all things light therapy. She now primarily uses red light therapy for its anti-aging benefits. Anne's mission is to make the science behind red light therapy easy to understand and accessible, so anyone can use it to take control of their health and wellbeing.

John Ni, BSc.

John, a graduate of the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, serves as a respected scientific reviewer at TherapeuticBeams.com. His expertise extends across various domains, including chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and dermatology. He contributes to publications like Royal Society of Chemistry, Drug Topics, and Practical Dermatology.

John Ni, Content Editor & Scientific Review

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