CoolTone vs. Emsculpt: Which is Better?

These days, looking fit and healthy is just as important as looking skinny. Two great non-surgical body contouring treatments have been developed to focused on enhancing and toning of muscles: CoolTone and Emsculpt. These treatments are starkly different from traditional body contouring methods which are focused on the removal of unwanted fat. Instead, both techniques that focus on building muscle for a more toned and athletic look.

While both treatments work towards enhancing muscle mass, there are some key differences between Emsculpt and CoolTone. Here’s a quick comparison of both muscle toning treatments:

What Is Emsculpt?

Emsculpt was the first of these two methods to receive FDA approval and has been on the market the longest. Because of this, several studies have been done which prove it’s safe and effective.

Emsculpt uses high intensity focused electromagnetic energy, or HIFEM, to trigger involuntary muscle contractions. These quick, repeated contractions strengthen muscle which builds tone and improves contour. Studies show Emsculpt can increase muscle mass up to 16 percent after multiple treatments.

• Uses HIFEM to contract muscles
• Approved for abs, butt, thighs, arms and calves
• Tones muscle and reduces fat

What Is CoolTone?

CoolTone is relatively new to the market compared to Emsculpt, however CoolTone is made by the makers of CoolSculpting which is one of the most popular non-surgical body contouring treatment options available. CoolTone is FDA cleared to address your most stubborn workout-resistant areas, including the abs, butt and thighs.

CoolTone uses magnetic muscle stimulation, or MMS to rapidly contract and relax your muscles in succession. These supramaximal contractions happen so quickly, the muscles don’t fully relax between contractions. Just one CoolTone session includes over 20,000 contractions, efficiently replacing a day at the gym.

• Uses MMS to contract muscles
• Approved only for abs, butt and thighs
• Tones muscle up to 50% more efficiently than Emsculpt

Similarities Between CoolTone & Emsculpt

Both methods of body contouring use rapid-fire muscle contraction to tone muscles and improve the body’s shape. Because these techniques are focused on strengthening muscle versus removing fat, there are secondary benefits such as an increase in metabolism. The stronger your muscle the more calories you burn, even when you’re at rest.

If bulking up is a worry, however, rest assured the micro-contractions stimulated by CoolTone and Emsculpt are far more suited for toning versus building muscle.

The two procedures are also similar in the following ways:

• Both are FDA approved and safe to use
• Pain free treatments take place in your doctor’s office
• Neither require downtime, and treatments can be repeated multiple times per week
• 30-minute sessions are quick and efficient

It’s important to remember that both CoolTone and Emsculpt are not weight loss methods. Both treatments work best on those who are already at a healthy weight, yet seeking to improve tone in targeted areas. While several treatments are recommended, results can be felt and seen after your first visit.

Like liposuction, the results from both Emsculpt and CoolTone technologies are lasting as long as you maintain your post-treatment body weight and activity levels. However, both treatments may require additional treatments will also help you maintain your new, fit contour.

Differences Between CoolTone & Emsculpt

Muscle Toning Method

The primary difference between CoolTone and Emsculpt is the energetic method through which the muscle is toned. CoolTone’s MMS method is up to 50% more powerful than Emsculpt’s HIFEM method. This means with CoolTone, you may experience greater changes in definition after one treatment, and you may need fewer treatments overall to achieve your desired results.

Treatment Areas

Both CoolTone and Emsculpt are approved to strengthen the abdominal area, front and backside of the upper legs. Emsculpt, however, is also approved for the upper arms and calves, thanks to a recently approved small contour applicator.

Fat Removal

While both CoolTone and Emsculpt focus on muscle strengthening, Emsculpt does have some fat reduction benefits. Clinical studies claim a 19% reduction in body fat is possible with multiple Emsculpt treatments. The makers of CoolTone have addressed fat reduction through their CoolSculpting device, which can be used in conjunction with CoolTone. This technology kills fat cells by freezing them for lasting fat elimination.

Why We Prefer CoolTone

While both treatments have their benefits, we prefer CoolTone to Emsculpt strictly due to its enhanced power. As stated previously, CoolTone’s MMS method is up to 50% more powerful than Emsculpt’s HIFEM method. This enables patients to realize results quicker, and with less cost as less treatment sessions are required.

Kristi Cardona is a Licensed Aesthetician and Laser Technician. Since 2008, she has worked as a Certified Medical Assistant in MOHS Surgery, Cosmetic Surgery, and General Dermatology, alongside some of the most respected Dermatologists and Plastic Surgeons in the city of Austin. Kristi is trained in laser and cosmetic procedures including Laser Hair Removal, Chemical Peels, HydraFacial MD, Acne Facials, Microneedling, Microdermabrasion, Dermaplaning, CoolTouch, and CoolSculpting.