38 ascp skin deep september/october 2019
expertadvice
ADVANCED MODALITIES
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
Cellulite reduction is considered a safe and low-risk
procedure best suited for clients with a body mass
index of less than 30. Possible side effects are minimal,
with the chance for bruising being the biggest side
effect. Clients who are contraindicated for treatment
include those with a pacemaker, epilepsy, a history
of poor wound healing, an open wound or rash in the
treatment area, pregnancy, or an autoimmune disease
or connective tissue disorder, among other conditions.
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Although cellulite reduction with the use of RF and
infrared or vacuum therapy is considered noninvasive
with no downtime, it is still out of scope for many
estheticians. Check with your state board before
performing this procedure and be sure you have the
proper training and medical director oversight. Since
many states require a medical directorship to perform
this procedure, there are no training requirements
established by the state board. Certification can be
obtained easily and properly from the manufacturer of
the FDA-approved device you choose to work with.
Notes
1. American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, "Cellulite,"
accessed July 2019, www.asds.net/skin-experts/
skin-conditions/cellulite.
2. Peter Crosta, MedicalNewsDaily.com, "Everything You
Need to Know About Cellulite," accessed July 2019,
www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/149465.php.
3. American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, "Cellulite."
4. American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, "Guide to Cellulite
Reduction Treatments," accessed July 2019, www.
americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-
center/non-surgical-procedures/cellulite-treatments.
There are only four energy-based devices cleared by the
FDA for the treatment of cellulite. These include VelaShape
(RF and infrared light), Venus Freeze (RF and pulsed
electromagnetic fields), ThermiSmooth Body (RF), and
Zimmer Z Wave (radial pulse therapy).
Liability Insurance
Professional liability insurance for cellulite reduction protects
you in case a client sues. ASCP members have access to
optional Advanced Modality Insurance coverage for cellulite
reduction and other advanced modalities, like body contouring
and radio frequency services, that protects you and your
esthetics practice. More information about advanced modality
coverage, including the steps for applying, is available at
www.ascpskincare.com/ami. Pricing for cellulite reduction
services ranges from $692 to $792 for the year, and you
can bundle that coverage with other advanced modalities
to save more.
If you can answer yes to the following three questions, you
may be eligible for this advanced modality coverage:
• Do I have proof of advanced training with hands-on experience?
• Am I practicing these modalities within the scope of practice
authorized by the state in which I work?
• Am I an ASCP member, or do I plan to be?
Learn more about ASCP's Advanced Modality Insurance
program for members at www.ascpskincare.com/ami.
