Your first Endermologie session: what to expect and side effects

Who should not have Endermologie?

LPG's own FAQ names conditions where its treatments should not be done. The FDA file adds two more. If one applies to you, say so when you book, or skip Endermologie for now.

• Cancer that is in progress, or skin cancer in the area to be treated
• An infection, a skin rash or an open wound on that area
• Blood-thinning (anticoagulant) medicine or a blood disorder
• An organ transplant or kidney failure
• Recent cosmetic surgery: LPG asks for a medical certificate. Book only with your surgeon's clearance
• Pregnancy: LPG limits what can be done and says to talk to your doctor first

LPG adds that people with hypothyroidism, diabetes or long-term corticosteroid use may respond less well. When in doubt, LPG tells clients to ask their own physician.

What happens during the 60 minutes

1. 1The conversationKay goes through your health history and the list above, asks which areas bother you, and explains what Endermologie can and cannot change. This is the moment to ask about results and cost.
2. 2The suitYou change into Endermowear, the white body suit LPG makes for its body treatments. It lets the treatment head glide and keeps you covered. Kay sells it at cost, $45, and she will not start a session without it.
3. 3The sessionKay works on the LPG Endermologie® Cellu M6 Alliance®. The head lifts a fold of skin with suction while its rollers move across one area at a time, such as the thighs or abdomen.
4. 4Your planBefore you leave, Kay suggests how often to come back. LPG's FAQ describes 2 sessions a week for a month, then one a month. Kay's pace depends on your goal and where you start. For thighs and buttocks she often suggests a booster week of 2 sessions, then about one a week.

How does it feel?

Expect two things at once: a pull as the suction lifts a fold of skin, and a rolling motion as the head travels. LPG describes the treatment as pleasant and says the settings are adjusted to each person's skin sensitivity.

If an area feels too strong, say so right away. In LPG's 2000 FDA file, suction on its machines is set on a scale of 1 to 10, so there is room to go lighter.

What side effects are possible?

The two larger studies on Endermologie and cellulite, from 2009 with 33 women and from 2013 with 118 women, both called the treatment well tolerated. Their published summaries do not report serious side effects. Neither study was designed mainly to measure safety, and both were small.

What you notice after a session depends on your skin and the pressure used. Kay says her clients usually report no pain and see no redness or bruising. Two things they do notice: more trips to the bathroom later that day, and a lighter, more relaxed feeling.

Call your physician if you notice anything that does not settle, such as swelling, pain that grows, or a rash. Then tell Kay before your next session.