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Emerald laser vs SlimDrone: new fat reduction treatments go head to head

How does the latest body contouring technology work to help you lose pounds and inches? We put them to the test

Emerald Fat Reduction

Available at Light Touch Clinic, Surrey

This revolutionary new treatment is said to be the 'jewel in the crown' of fat reduction technology. Quick and completely painless, the low-level Emerald laser uses 'cold therapy' and can target 10 areas of the body – it works by shrinking the fat cells, not destroying or harming them. The fat is then consumed as energy and flushed out naturally via the body's lymphatic system when combined with light exercise and sufficient water intake. Patients can experience up to 7.5 cm of overall fat loss in just one session.

The procedure

I decided to have my mid section treated which included stomach, back, bra fat and love handles. For the first 15 minutes, I lay on my back while 10 green lasers danced over my body. For the remaining 15 minutes I flipped onto my front for more of the same. The procedure is totally painless (which is really the most incredible thing about it) and even quite relaxing – by far and away the quickest and easiest aesthetic treatment I’ve ever experienced in terms of the results achieved, which speak for themselves.  

Who does Emerald Laser best suit?

Emerald is ideal for people looking to change their lifestyle and get in shape, alongside a course of sessions. As a treatment that has been designed to help with losing more than a pinchable pocket of fat, it can be effective on people who have a BMI of 30 or over, as well as for body contouring and slimming. It’s also non-invasive and pain-free so there’s no downtime.

How many sessions are required?

10 half hour sessions weekly will produce the best results.

What do I need to do after the treatment?

While the technology works really well, you are advised to address your lifestyle for the best results – specifically your water intake and exercise. Make sure you keep active and drink around three litres of water a day to ensure the fat is successfully expelled. Interestingly, the Emerald Laser website says that you don't necessarily need to exercise or diet.

Are there any risks?

Emerald is safe, non-invasive and FDA approved – it comes with virtually no risks or side effects.

When will I see results?

Some people are said to see results after one session; I saw results after four with a flatter stomach and decent inch loss. I was diligent at increasing my water intake and made sure I exercised most days, with either fast walking or Zumba workouts. After five sessions I had lost half an inch around my upper torso, half an inch around my mid torso and three-quarters of an inch around my stomach/back area. One male patient at the clinic had reportedly lost two stones over 10 sessions. Seriously impressive.

SlimDrone

Available at Lisa Harris Skin Science, Surrey

This award-winning treatment uses 'pharmaceutical drone encapsulation' with a navigation system to target fat cells and allow product to directly enter them – no other treatment has yet been able to do this. There are three different programmes – Fat Reduction, Cellulite Reduction and Skin Tightening – with a muscle toning programme to improve muscle definition, Electrostimulation, and LED and Thermal Stimulation.

The procedure

Loved by a certain (male) morning TV presenter who has regular treatments, I had also seen some impressive before and afters, so was curious to see if SlimDrone would live up to the hype. On arrival, Lisa Harris told me that the treatment worked really well on arms, so we decided to concentrate on my upper arms and bra fat areas. Taking around an hour in total, a number of pads with wires attached are placed onto the treatment area along with an active ingredient solution, before the machine is switched on. Sensations depend on which programme you are undergoing and how high the levels are (these are controlled by the therapist and the higher the better), but as your muscles contract due to the micro currents, you can expect tickling, twitching, pins and needles and nerve jumping; at one point I couldn’t stop my arm from jumping off the bed and had to wedge it under my body. It’s not painful but it’s also not especially relaxing.

Who does Slimdrone best suit?

Slimdrone is ideal for treating loose/flaccid skin, water retention/bloating, muscle atrophy, all grades of cellulite, excess weight and stubborn fat cells. You can also benefit from improved muscle definition and circulation; smoother, firmer skin, and tighter skin thanks to increased collagen and elastin.

How many sessions are required?

You are advised to commit to one treatment twice a week for at least a month; homecare products are also provided.

What do I need to do after the treatment?

You don't need to do anything after a treatment.

When will I see results?

I saw a difference after just one treatment, although I’m not sure if this was purely down to losing water weight.


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