Navigating the world of body contouring can feel a bit like staring at a menu in a foreign language. With terms like “CoolSculpting Elite,” “magnetic muscle stimulation,” and “supramaximal contractions” thrown around, it’s easy to feel lost. But don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many people are curious about the differences between CoolSculpting and CoolTone, especially if they’re looking to enhance their body shape without undergoing surgery.

In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about CoolSculpting vs. CoolTone, including what each treatment does, how they differ, and which one might be right for you. 

Understanding CoolSculpting and CoolTone

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of what each treatment does, it’s helpful to understand the basics of each. Think of CoolSculpting and CoolTone as two sides of the same body contouring coin—one focuses on fat reduction, while the other focuses on muscle toning.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting Elite is a non-invasive body contouring treatment that targets and reduces fat. Using a technology called cryolipolysis (or “fat freezing”), CoolSculpting essentially freezes fat cells in specific treatment areas. Once those fat cells are frozen, the body naturally eliminates them over time, leading to a slimmer, more contoured look in the treated area.

CoolSculpting Elite is an upgraded version of the original CoolSculpting device, designed for faster and more effective treatments. The treatment can target common problem areas like the thighs, abdomen, and arms, helping to reduce stubborn fat that resists diet and exercise. 

What is CoolTone?

So, what is CoolTone? Unlike CoolSculpting Elite, CoolTone treatments focus on muscle toning rather than fat reduction. This treatment uses magnetic muscle stimulation to contract muscles in a way that goes far beyond what you can achieve in the gym. Think of it as a supercharged workout that stimulates muscles without the sweat!

CoolTone’s electromagnetic energy reaches deep into the muscle layers, inducing powerful supramaximal contractions. These intense muscle contractions help strengthen and tone targeted areas like the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs.

Key Differences Between CoolSculpting and CoolTone

While CoolSculpting and CoolTone both aim to help people achieve a more sculpted look, they go about it in very different ways. Let’s look at some of the most significant differences between these two treatments.

Purpose: Fat Reduction vs. Muscle Toning

The primary distinction between CoolSculpting and CoolTone is their purpose:

• CoolSculpting is designed for fat reduction. If your goal is to target pockets of stubborn fat that aren’t responding to diet or exercise, CoolSculpting might be your answer.
• CoolTone is all about muscle toning. If you’re looking to enhance your muscle tone and improve muscle strength, CoolTone can help you achieve a more defined look.

While CoolSculpting will slim down a fat layer by reducing fat cells, CoolTone will enhance muscle fibers in a way that makes them stronger and more toned.

Technology: Cryolipolysis vs. Magnetic Muscle Stimulation

CoolSculpting and CoolTone use entirely different technologies to achieve their effects:

• CoolSculpting employs cryolipolysis (fat freezing), which uses cold temperatures to destroy fat cells in the treated area.
• CoolTone relies on magnetic muscle stimulation, which sends electromagnetic pulses to contract and tone muscles at a level far beyond the voluntary muscle contractions we stimulate with exercise.

In other words, CoolSculpting focuses on the fat layer under the skin, while CoolTone dives deeper to stimulate muscles and improve muscle tone.

Treatment Areas: Where Each Works Best

CoolSculpting and CoolTone have specific treatment areas where they’re most effective:

• CoolSculpting is generally used to target stubborn fat on the abdomen, thighs, and arms, however, there are over 9 common areas to treat with CoolSculpting. It’s ideal for treating areas with pinchable fat that don’t respond to diet or exercise.
• CoolTone shines when it comes to toning larger muscle groups like the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs. It’s perfect for areas where you want to build muscle strength and definition.

In short, if your goal is to tone and lift your buttocks, CoolTone is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re trying to reduce your love handles or stubborn fat on your thighs, CoolSculpting Elite might be more effective.

Comparing Treatment Processes and Results

Now that we’ve covered what each treatment does, let’s talk about the experience itself. What should you expect during each session, and how long will the results last?

What to Expect During a CoolSculpting Session

During a CoolSculpting Elite session, a gel pad and applicator are applied to the targeted area. The machine then delivers controlled cooling to freeze the fat cells. You might feel an intense cold sensation at first, but most people find the treatment comfortable once they settle in. The treatment can last anywhere from 35 minutes to an hour depending on the treatment area.

CoolSculpting results typically begin to appear a few weeks after treatment as the body starts to naturally eliminate the destroyed fat cells. However, full results might take a few months to become visible, with the fat reduction being long-lasting as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What to Expect During a CoolTone Session

CoolTone sessions are a bit different. During the treatment session, the applicator sends electromagnetic energy to the muscles in the targeted area, causing them to contract rapidly. These supramaximal contractions simulate a workout much more intense than what you could do on your own.

Sessions are typically shorter than CoolSculpting Elite, usually lasting about 30 minutes per area. Most people describe the sensation as unusual but not painful, similar to the muscle contractions you experience during an intense workout.

After a CoolTone session, you may experience slight muscle soreness, just as you would after a good gym session. CoolTone results are noticeable after a few sessions, with the best outcomes visible approximately 2-4 weeks following your last treatment.

How Long Results Last for Each Treatment

Both CoolSculpting Elite and CoolTone offer lasting results, but there’s a bit of a difference in how long you can expect them to stick around:

• CoolSculpting results are permanent in the sense that treated fat cells won’t come back. However, if you gain weight, remaining fat cells in other areas can grow, so maintaining your weight through a healthy lifestyle is key.
• CoolTone results require some maintenance. Think of CoolTone as you would any workout regimen—the effects will last as long as you continue to stimulate and work those muscles. Many providers recommend maintenance treatments every few months to keep your muscles toned.

Which Treatment is Right for You?

Deciding between CoolSculpting and CoolTone boils down to your goals, lifestyle, and body type. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice.

Choosing Based on Your Body Goals

• If you’re primarily looking to reduce fat in specific areas, CoolSculpting Elite might be the better option.
• If your goal is to enhance muscle definition and improve muscle strength, then CoolTone is the solution to help you achieve a more athletic, defined look.
• For those who want to tone muscle while also slimming down, a combination of both treatments might offer the best results.

Combining CoolSculpting and CoolTone for Optimal Results

For many people, combining CoolSculpting Elite and CoolTone treatments is the golden ticket. By reducing fat with CoolSculpting and building muscle with CoolTone, you can achieve a more sculpted look that both slims and sculpts your body. Some clients even call it a non-surgical tummy tuck when combined, as it can provide similar body sculpting effects without the need for cosmetic surgery.

Your provider can customize a body contouring treatment plan based on your unique goals and areas you’d like to target. Whether it’s the abdomen, buttocks, or thighs, CoolSculpting Elite and CoolTone can be tailored to fit your body’s needs.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between CoolSculpting Elite and CoolTone doesn’t have to be confusing. Both treatments offer fantastic ways to achieve body goals without the downtime or the commitment of traditional cosmetic surgery. Remember, CoolSculpting is for those who want to target stubborn fat, while CoolTone is ideal for enhancing muscle tone and strength. 

With the right guidance and a tailored treatment plan, you’re one step closer to the body you’ve been working toward. Whether you decide on CoolSculpting Elite, CoolTone, or a combination of both, there’s a path to get you feeling like the best version of yourself—with no scalpel required. Why wait to get started? Get a jump start on your summer body goals with winter body treatments like CoolSculpting Elite or CoolTone this holiday season.