This Popular Skin-Tightener Just Got FDA-Approved for Cellulite Dimples

Sofwave, the skin-tightening facial treatment that has been touted by many doctors as solid solution for lines and wrinkles just got approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the temporary reduction of cellulite, making it another viable noninvasive option for reducing cellulite dimples.

“This is exciting news!,” shares New York dermatologist Doris Day, MD. “Cellulite is a complicated condition to treat and often takes a multi-modal approach. I am happy to have more options to help address the different aspects of cellulite—from the dimples to the overall surrounding laxity that often accompanies it.”

The treatment rejuvenates skin using high-frequency, low-divergence ultrasound and heat to reach the layers of the dermis where collagen formation is stimulated. It uses a Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam, or SUPERB, technology, which has now been deemed safe for smoothing cellulite dimples as well. In a clinical study, 68 female participants received two treatments, spaced 2-4 weeks apart on the upper thighs and buttocks. Photographs taken at baseline and the three-month post-procedure mark were assessed by blinded independent reviewers to identify and grade the pre-treatment and post-treatment images. The reviewers correctly identified the post-treatment images for 89 percent of the cases. 

“Sofwave has been an innovative technology to produce reliable enhancement to the face and neck in our practice through sound science and research,” notes Chicago plastic surgeon Julius Few, MD. “The current study and subsequent approval of use in cellulite treatment represent a vital addition to our cosmetic toolbox, as cellulite affects most women worldwide at some point in life and with limited effective, truly noninvasive options to treat, Sofwave will now offer a truly effective, noninvasive solution for cellulite.”

Houston dermatologist Jennifer Segal, MD says her patients will appreciate the low downtime factor. “Body rejuvenation generally requires a combination of different treatments including skin care, tightening, volume and muscle tone for an optimal clinical result. Sofwave is a wonderful tool to be able to utilize. Moreover, body treatments tend to have more ‘downtime,’ than the face, so the nonexistent downtime of Sofwave is perfectly suited to body rejuvenation.”