Cellulite is a common issue that affects women of all ages, sizes, and ethnicities. The dimpling and undulations that appear in the backside and buttocks of women are typically caused by septae, which tug the skin down, causing surrounding fat to visibly bulge under the surface. Until now, mainstream treatments have offered little to no help in improving the look of cellulite. But now, there could be an injectable treatment that targets the fibrous septae connecting skin to muscle, allowing the skin to float up and smooth out.
The FDA has approved the use of Qwo from Endoo Aesthetics for the treatment of moderate to severe cellulite in the buttocks of women.
What makes this injectable stand out is the substantial scientific evidence backing it. Endo Aesthetics conducted 2 clinical trials of Qwo, the largest trials in the history of cellulite investigation. The trials were made up of 845 women over 18 years of age, and included all ethnicities, BMI’s, and skin types, 30% of whom were Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI, ranging from light brown to very dark brown. Participants recorded a two-point improvement, which is very large in terms of clinical improvements.
The injection is administered similar to Botox, or any other injectable treatment. There is little to no downtime, and side effects are minimal. Patients may experience bruising and tenderness around the injection site and it’s recommended to avoid vigorous exercise or sun for up to 2 months following the last treatment, similar to any other injectable treatment. Results tended to be very durable with effects lasting a year or more.
What does this mean for your practice?
Prior to the FDA approval of Qwo, the only viable treatments for cellulite in women were surgical and invasive options that targeted the bands under the skin, and results were not as significant. This new injection allows you, as an injector, to offer another service to your existing customers, but also reach a subset of the population that may have not been able to be treated effectively before for cellulite.
One thing to note is that this injectable is not the right fit for everyone. Just like any injectable treatment, you must discuss with your patient and determine if this treatment is the right treatment for them. Qwo is meant to tackle cellulite, but is not meant to treat skin sagging or laxity, which many women mistake for cellulite. It’s meant for women with those tight, distinct cellulite divots.
We’re excited to see ongoing research and results from this injectable, and excited to see practitioners expand their practice with new tools.