Accent Prime vs. CoolSculpting: An Unbiased Comparison for Non-Invasive Body Contouring

As technology begins to advance, the interest in non-invasive body contouring treatments only continues to rise. Two of the most popular body contouring treatments—Accent Prime and CoolSculpting—have flooded the media with claims of scar free fat reduction. Both treatments promise to help achieve a more toned and sculpted appearance, but they differ in their technology and benefits. This in-depth comparison of Accent Prime and CoolSculpting aims to provide you with non-biased insights to decide which treatment best fits your goals, lifestyle, and needs.

What is Accent Prime?

Accent Prime, by Alma Lasers, is an advanced, non-invasive body and facial contouring technology that uses a combination of radiofrequency (RF) energy and ultrasound waves to target and reduce fat, tighten skin, and promote collagen production. It is FDA-approved and can be used for a wide range of aesthetic concerns, including cellulite, body contouring, skin tightening, and scarring. (Alma Lasers)

alma accent prime leg fat reduction and skin tightening

How does Accent Prime Work:

Accent Prime’s combination of Radio frequency energy and Ultrasound waves treat a wide range of concerns other than stubborn fat cells like skin activity and texture all within the same hour.

Radio frequency (RF) Energy

Accent Prime uses RF energy to heat the cells. This shrinks and tightens existing collagen cells for quick results while increasing collagen production for up to 3 years post treatment. The heat penetrates the skin’s deeper layers to target fat cells and enhance the texture and tone of the skin.

Ultrasound Waves

In addition to RF, Accent Prime uses ultrasound waves to break down the cell walls of our fat. This allows for fat emulsification, where fat cells are liquefied and naturally eliminated by the lymphatic system over time. You could this of this as a brick wall loosing its

Targeted Body Contouring

The combination of RF and ultrasound provides a solution to more than just fat reduction. This allows for tightening, resurfacing, and contouring in areas that need a little more help. Unlike CoolSculpting, the trouble area is manually treated for the entire duration, making it ideal for contouring larger areas or specific concerns.

Treatment Time

Treatment times vary depending on the area being treated but generally last between 30 and 60 minutes.

Pros of Accent Prime:

  • Dual-Action Treatment: The standout feature in Accent Prime is its ability to provide both fat reduction and skin tightening in a single session by combining RF energy and ultrasound waves.
  • Versatility: Accent Prime can treat multiple areas of the body and face. It is effective on larger fat areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms, and can also address more delicate areas such as the double chin, jawline, cheek bones and more.
  • Collagen Boosting: The radio frequency energy stimulates collagen production, which leads to firmer, smoother skin. This combo can be an excellent choice for patients who are also seeking skin rejuvenation.
  • No Downtime: Like CoolSculpting, Accent Prime is non-invasive and requires no downtime. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately after treatment, however, it should be noted Accent Prime is seen to have less complications.
  • FDA-Approved: Accent Prime is FDA-approved for its efficacy and safety, making it a trusted, reliable treatment option.

Cons of Accent Prime:

  • Requires Heat: Because Accent Prime uses heat in order to destroy fat cells and produce collagen, those who prefer cold temperatures or are highly sensitive to heat may find the treatment uncomfortable.
  • Skin Tightening Touch-ups: While the results of Accent Prime on fat reduction are long-lasting, maintenance treatments may be required to sustain the skin tightening effects as we continue to age and the collagen begins to degrade..
  • Cost: Accent Prime treatments may be more expensive compared to other non-invasive procedures due to the advanced technology, low risk for complications, and labor intensive customization.
  • Side effects: Patients may experience redness, tingling, tenderness, warmth and skin irritation. Improper treatment protocol could lead to blistering, skin discoloration, and burning in rare cases.

What is CoolSculpting?

coolsculpting treatment

CoolSculpting, developed by Zeltiq, is a non-invasive fat reduction procedure that uses Cryolipolysis to freeze and eliminate fat cells. This procedure targets stubborn, small fat pockets that patients have had trouble tackling with diet and exercise. It is FDA-approved for use on areas such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, double chin, and even the upper arms. (COOLSCULPTING.)

How CoolSculpting Works:

CoolSculpting utilizes advanced cooling technology in deep fatty tissue to tackle issues strictly related to stubborn fat. 

Cooling Technology: 

The CoolSculpting device uses paddles that incorporate cooling technology to kill fat cells beneath the skin. The device applies controlled cooling to problem areas at around 39 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit without damaging the surrounding tissue.

Fat Cell Freezing: 

Fat cells are so sensitive to extreme cold temperatures that the surrounding fat cells crystallize and freeze.  Once frozen, the fat cells are unable to survive and eventually die off.

Natural Elimination: 

Over the following weeks to months, the excess fat cells will be naturally processed and eliminated through the body’s lymphatic system, leading to a gradual fat reduction in the treated area.

Treatment Time: 

Each treatment session typically lasts between 35 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being treated.

Pros of CoolSculpting:

  • Non-Invasive: CoolSculpting is a non-surgical procedure, which means there are no cuts, injections, or needles involved. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment.
  • Long-Term Results: Once the fat cells are destroyed, they do not regenerate, providing lasting results in the treated areas compared to diet and exercise. 
  • Targeted Fat Reduction: The treatment is designed to quickly target specific areas with stubborn fat, making it ideal for body contouring in the most common problem areas
  • FDA-Approved: CoolSculpting is FDA-approved for several areas, ensuring that it is a well known, regulated treatment.

Cons of CoolSculpting:

  • Not for Large Fat Deposits: CoolSculpting’s cryolipolysis technology is most effective for those who are near their ideal weight but have a stubborn area with diet and exercise. It is not recommended for those with large amounts of excess fat.
  • Possible Discomfort: Patients may feel slight discomfort from the suction and near freezing temperatures. However, the discomfort is typically subsides as the treatment progresses.
  • Results Take Time: CoolSculpting does not offer instant results. Visible changes typically appear within 2-3 months after treatment, as the body gradually eliminates the frozen fat cells.
  • Side Effects: Some patients may experience temporary side effects, such as redness, bruising, swelling, or numbness at the treatment site. In rare cases, fat can permanently harden, known as paradoxical adipose hyperplasia

CoolSculpting vs. Accent Prime: A Detailed Comparison

Now that we’ve explored the basic features, uses, and drawbacks of each treatment, let’s compare CoolSculpting and Accent Prime across several important factors to help you determine which is the right option for your needs.

1. Technology and Mechanism

  • Accent Prime: Combines RF energy and ultrasound waves to target fat cells and stimulate collagen production, offering a two-in-one treatment of fat reduction and skin tightening
  • CoolSculpting: Utilizes Cryolipolysis, which freezes fat cells to destroy them. This process is highly effective for targeting stubborn fat pockets in specific areas.

Who benefits: CoolSculpting is best fitted for those who are looking to solely remove fat from small stubborn areas while Accent Prime is a better option for those who are also looking to tackle other skin issues because of skin tightening possibilities. 

2. Treatment Areas

  • Accent Prime: The technology is intended to treat larger areas like the abdomen, thighs, and arms, as well as more delicate areas such as the double chin, jawline, and face.
  • CoolSculpting: Primarily targets areas with localized fat, such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, under the chin, and arms.

Who Benefits: Accent Prime will best benefit those who are looking to customize the treatment areas while CoolSculpting is a great fit for those who have specific areas in mind localized to one spot.

3. Treatment Time and Results

  • Accent Prime: Treatment sessions usually last 30-60 minutes. Multiple sessions (typically 4-6) are required for optimal results. Results are gradual but tend to show noticeable improvement after a few sessions.
  • CoolSculpting: Each session typically lasts 35-60 minutes, with results taking about 2-3 months. CoolSculpting may provide quicker, more dramatic results in areas with localized fat.

Who Benefits: CoolSculpting may be seen as a better option for those who just want to get their treatments over with, while Accent Prime may be more enticing to patients who would like to work with and customize their results over time.

4. Fat Reduction and Skin Tightening

  • Accent Prime: Provides both fat reduction and skin tightening due to the combination of RF energy and ultrasound. This makes it ideal for individuals seeking not only fat loss but also a firmer, smoother appearance. 
  • CoolSculpting: Primarily focuses on fat reduction. While it offers long-lasting results in fat loss, it does not provide any direct skin tightening benefits.

Who Benefits: Accent Prime should be considered if you are looking for tightening or resurfacing of the skin at the same time as fat reduction, while CoolSculpting will help patients whose main concern is excess fat. 

5. Suitability for Different Body Types

  • Accent Prime: Suitable for a wider range of individuals, from those with moderate fat deposits to those looking for skin tightening and rejuvenation. It can be effective for both smaller and larger areas of fat.
  • CoolSculpting: Best suited for individuals who are near their ideal body weight but have small, stubborn pockets of fat. It is not recommended for those with large amounts of excess fat.

Who Benefits: Accent Prime can offer more versatility in treating both smaller and larger fat deposits, while CoolSculpting may benefit those who are near their goal and are looking to tackle minor deposits .

6. Side Effects and Downtime

  • Accent Prime: Side effects are generally mild, including temporary redness or slight warmth in the treated area. There is no downtime, and patients can resume regular activities immediately.
  • CoolSculpting: Possible side effects include temporary redness, swelling, bruising, and numbness. Downtime is minimal, and patients can usually return to normal activities immediately after treatment.

Who Benefits: While Accent Prime is generally recognized as a safer option then CoolSculpting, both treatments are trusted and FDA approved with no downtime. 

Conclusion: Which Treatment is Right for You?

Both CoolSculpting and Accent Prime are exceptional treatments for body contouring, but they serve different purposes and may be suited to different individuals depending on their needs.

  • Choose Accent Prime if you are looking for a more versatile, dual-action treatment that not only targets fat but also tightens and firms your skin, providing a more comprehensive solution for body contouring.
  • Choose CoolSculpting if you want a focused treatment for reducing stubborn fat in specific areas and are willing to wait for results over the course of a few months.

Ultimately, the choice between CoolSculpting and Accent Prime depends on your goals—whether you’re seeking targeted fat reduction, skin tightening, or a combination of both. It’s always recommended to consult with a certified professional to determine which treatment is best suited for your specific body type and aesthetic desires.

How we can help!

If you feel as though the Accent Prime could be a good fit for you and your goals, Med Aesthetics OC offers free 30 minute consultations to anyone wanting more information on this treatment and any other treatments provided. We pride ourselves in ensuring our patients are fully aware of the capabilities and possible outcome of our treatments before beginning. Book your consultation to start your journey!

Related: All About vShape Ultra with JuVa Shape

What is NAD+? Benefits, Uses, and How it Supports Health and Aging

Aging is inevitable, but what if we could slow it down—or even reverse some of its effects?

Recently, a supplement has been praised on social media by well-known celebrities like Justin Bieber and the Kardashians for its anti-aging abilities. NAD+, formally referred to as Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, is a coenzyme found in every cell of your body, and a lack of this important molecule can have detrimental effects on both the body and mind. It’s a mouthful to say, but its role in cellular health and energy production might just be the key to healthier aging.

The Science Behind NAD+

So, what does NAD+ actually do? Think of it as a cellular multitasker. It helps your cells convert food into energy, repairs damaged DNA, and provides energy to proteins called sirtuins, which are responsible for our natural healing responses.

Here’s the catch: as we age, NAD+ levels decline, which means less energy, slower DNA repair, and a higher risk of diseases associated with aging.

DNA Repair

The good news? Scientists are discovering that boosting NAD+ levels may turn back the clock on some of these age-related issues. A 2017 Harvard study demonstrated that a protein responsible for DNA repair becomes dormant with age but can be reactivated through NAD+ therapy. It was so effective at repairing DNA that significant improvements were observed in lab mice who had undergone chemotherapy.

Increasing NAD+ levels helps to restore DNA repair mechanisms in older cells. It’s like giving your cells a tune-up, helping them work more like they did when you were younger.

Improved Fat Metabolism, Energy, and Brain Health

It’s not just about DNA repair. NAD+ also increases activity in the mitochondria—the powerhouses of your cells. It boosts important enzymes called sirtuins, which are responsible for optimizing mitochondrial function. One of many studies show these crucial enzymes affect metabolism, energy consumption, aging, and sleep cycles. More efficient mitochondria mean more energy, better brain function, and regulated glucose levels.

NAD+ serves as the foundation for a complex network of biological processes in the body. Without the proper resources, our cells lack the strength to perform at their full potential.

Reduces Disease Caused by Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress is a well-known contributor to a long list of devastating diseases worldwide. It begins when the balance between antioxidants and harmful free radicals is disrupted. The consequences of this imbalance are evident in illnesses like Alzheimer’s, diabetes, cancer, and even general age-related decline.

The Journal of Biological Chemistry highlights NAD+’s ability to reduce oxidative stress by utilizing sirtuins to signal powerful antioxidant enzymes and regulate our cells’ natural defense mechanisms.

What does this mean for us?

NAD+ plays a critical role in the biological processes responsible for maintaining cellular health, energy production, and combating age-related decline. As we age, declining NAD+ levels can have a more significant impact than we realize, but studies are beginning to show that restoring NAD+ levels through supplementation offers a promising future for anyone that ages (yes, even the Kardashians age).

NAD+ works as a powerful ally in the goal of healthier aging by supporting crucial cellular processes. While aging is, for now, inevitable, NAD+ supplementation is being increasingly more available to the public as the science begins to grow. We offer NAD+ treatment in our Tustin Medspa to patients wanting more. Some specialist recommend starting NAD+ in your 30s and 40s to combat deficiency, however, many well known celebrities in their early 20s have been known to start NAD therapy. Because we want to support you during your journey to a happier and healthier future, 30 minute consultations are free to book on our website or give us a call at (714) 716-6395.

What is the Difference Between Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wagovy) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro , Zepbound)

Comparing the Latest Injections, Semaglutide vs Polypeptide (Tirzepatide) for Weight Loss: What you Need to Know 

New medications are constantly being developed and tested in an effort to reduce the rates of obesity, and help people keep that weight off.  Med Aesthetics has been focusing on the top medications and treatments for the last several years.

Two of the most promising drugs that have been gaining attention for their effectiveness in weight loss are Semaglutides (Ozmpic) and Polypeptides (Tirzepatide, Zepbound). Both have shown significant results in clinical trials, but they work in different ways.  The professionals at Med Aesthetics understand the differences and work with each patient to identify and customize programs accordingly. We believe understanding the differences between these two medications is crucial to design effective treatment protocols.

Semaglutide: is a Game Changer in Weight Loss.

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist that was initially developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, it has since been found to be highly effective for weight loss as well. GLP-1 is a hormone that regulates appetite and food intake by signaling to the brain that the stomach is full. Semaglutide mimics this hormone, leading to reduced hunger and calorie intake.

In clinical trials, Semaglutide has shown impressive results, with participants losing an average of 15% to 20% of their body weight over a period of 68 weeks. The drug is typically administered via a once-weekly injection, making it convenient for patients. The FDA has approved Semaglutide for chronic weight management under the brand name Wegovy or Ozempic, and it has quickly become a popular option for individuals struggling with weight loss.

Tirzepatide: The Next Frontier in Weight Loss Medication.

Tirzepatide, on the other hand, is a newer drug that combines the actions of two hormones: GLP-1 and GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide). GIP is another hormone involved in glucose and fat metabolism. By activating both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, Tirzepatide offers a dual approach to appetite regulation and energy balance, potentially making it even more effective than Semaglutide.

Early clinical trials have shown that Tirzepatide can lead to even greater weight loss than Semaglutide, with some studies reporting average weight reductions of up to 22.5% of body weight. Tirzepatide is also administered via a once-weekly injection, but because it targets two pathways, it might provide more substantial results for certain individuals.

Let the professionals at Med Aesthetics see what treatment options are best for you.

Call (714) 716-6395 or Book your appointment on line (Square Booking Flow (squareup.com) now to meet with one of our professionals to see what treatment options are best for you.

Weight Loss it is NOT a One Size fits All

What really is the American Diet? We are truly the worlds original melting pot of people. All nationalities are represented here. Having a mix of all different nationalities has given us a sort of a food identity crisis. The Mediterranean Diet is considered the gold standard of the healthiest diets, yet Japan and its citizens are known to have an extraordinary life expectancy. There was a study called the “Comparison of the Impact of the Mediterranean Diet, Anti-Inflammatory Diet, Seventh-Day Adventist Diet, and Ketogenic Diet Relative to Cognition and Cognitive Decline” – PubMed (nih.gov). In this case, studies showed that people who lived the longest were pescatarians (plant-based eating that includes a small amount of fish). We live in an age when we can get information about literally everything right in the palm of our hand, and yet we are one of the sickest nations in the world.

Globally the United States is considered the unhealthiest country of all. The top three killers in the U.S. are, in this order, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. Unsurprisingly all three of these illnesses are also known to be affected by our diet and what we consume. Nationally, 39 % (in women) to 41.9 percent of adults are considered obese. Those numbers continue to grow every year, I know personally, I have been arguing with my body about my weight, shape, and size since I was a pre-teen.

I was raised with the concept that weight and weight management is really just a math problem, this is one of the many of the things I learned about dieting that was wrong. Calories in my body, minus calories expended by any kind of movement, when I reach a calorie deficit then I would begin to lose weight. The Math and the charts told me that as woman I need 2,200 calories a day to maintain my current body weight. (a man caloric intake would be 2,700.) So, math says that if I eat less than 2,200 calories a day, I should lose weight. So, I should be able to eat 2 Western Bacon Cheeseburgers from Carl’s Jr. (total of 1,520 calories) a day and lose weight. That is a big fat lie, that was the beginning of a lifetime of stories, myths and general misinformation about fat, weight, healthy habits and the d word; “diets”. In the next year we here at Med Aesthetics along with Advanced Medical Weight loss are going to talk (or write) about the latest studies, latest medical developments, what works, what doesn’t work and why.

I have spent a lifetime in search of how to lose weight and keep it off, what is healthy, what diets work, what doesn’t and why. I have gone to school in pursuit of this information from the science of the skin and body. Aesthetics license, massage training, Registered Dietitian training, health coach education, holistic health practitioner license/training. Completed studies on how to read DNA graphs, how DNA affects outcome, medical courses that was entirely on fat. (Turns out there are year long courses on the study of fat, from your brain to your bones)

Gina has focused her energies on fitness training, the science of exercise, healthy lifestyle choices and how to integrate all of that into daily life while still being family friendly. She can take the theories from the books and bring it to life in a very practical way. All the information in the world is great but when it isn’t practical or can’t translate to real life, real families, then nothing happens, nothing changes.

Of course, all of our doctors bring clinical medical-based options that range of Poly-peptides like Trizepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) and Semaglutides (Wagovey, Ozempic) to appetite suppressants and fat burners. Every one of our doctors not only keep up with the latest clinical studies, but many of them teach other professionals on best practices with the obesity medicine, wellness to what available from the pharmaceutical industry that is are medically safe, clinically reliable for real results. Med Aesthetics along with Advanced Medical Weight loss bring a lifetime of science and a commitment to the health and well-being of each patient. We take time with our patients to design custom programs that address your health problems, hormone or testosterone imbalances, weight management. We have begun relationships with pharmaceutical grade vitamin laboratories that can custom blend vitamins and/or minerals for any deficiency in your body to get you back into balance.

Cole is the glue that brings it all together. He brings the youths voice from technology, social media and helps to translate medical information on skin, body, health, wellness into a easier to understand format.

The Team at Med Aesthetics OC loves working with patients and with each other, we find great joy in your success. Seeing men and women losing weight, feeling great about their bodies sometimes for the first time in years. We have technology that can help you keep your muscles tone, tightening skin ,help with stretch marks and scar revisions. Customizing each and every weight loss program to suite you, to fit your needs and work on the things that matter to you.

Call Med Aesthetics OC to get started right away. (714) 716-6395 or book online for your free consultation at out booking portal