Cellulite, those familiar dimples affecting up to 90% of women, stems from a structural issue beneath the skin. Tightened fibrous septae pull the skin down while fat cells push upward, creating that uneven texture. Finally, there’s a clinically proven injectable solution: QWO (collagenase clostridium histolyticum-aaes). As the first and only FDA-approved injectable for moderate to severe cellulite in the buttocks of adult 1 women, QWO targets the root cause.
How QWO Works: Targeting the Cause
QWO’s active ingredients, collagenase enzymes AUX-I and AUX-II, break down the type I and III collagen found in the fibrous septae. This release of tension allows the skin to smooth out, fat to redistribute, and potentially encourages the formation of new, more organized collagen.
The treatment involves a series of quick injections directly into the cellulite dimples, typically up to 12 per buttock per session. A full course involves three sessions spaced 21 days apart, performed by a trained professional in a clinical setting. The procedure is well-tolerated with minimal downtime, allowing most patients to resume daily activities immediately, though some may experience temporary tenderness or bruising.
Clinical Evidence: Real Results
The pivotal RELEASE-1 and RELEASE-2 Phase 3 clinical trials demonstrated QWO’s effectiveness. Patients receiving the full three-treatment regimen showed a significant reduction in the appearance of cellulite compared to the placebo group. By week 10, a notable number of participants experienced a visible decrease in both the depth and number of dimples. These clinical improvements were observed to last for at least 12 months in many individuals.
It’s important to have realistic expectations. QWO is designed to improve the appearance of cellulite dimples and may not address skin laxity or eliminate all dimples.
Understanding Potential Side Effects
While generally well-tolerated, QWO can have side effects, most of which are temporary:
- Bruising: The most common side effect, often more pronounced after the initial treatment and typically resolving within 1-2 weeks.
- Swelling and Tenderness: Localized reactions at the injection site.
- Discoloration or Itching: Temporary skin changes around the treated area.
- Lumps or Firmness: Subcutaneous nodules that usually resolve spontaneously.
Rare but serious side effects like allergic reactions or infections at the injection site are possible but uncommon. Choosing an experienced and licensed provider is crucial to minimize risks.
Is QWO Right for You?
Ideal candidates for QWO are adult women with moderate to severe dimple-type cellulite on the buttocks, who are in good general health, have realistic expectations, and are not allergic to collagenase or prone to bleeding issues. QWO is currently FDA-approved for the buttocks only
QWO Compared to Other Treatments
While various cellulite treatments exist, QWO stands out by directly addressing the structural cause. Unlike topical creams with temporary surface effects or non-invasive procedures like massage with short-lived results, QWO offers a targeted approach with clinically proven outcomes. Subcision also targets the fibrous bands but is a minor surgical procedure with a slightly longer downtime. Laser and radiofrequency treatments can improve skin texture but don’t specifically break down the septae in the same way QWO does.
The Verdict: A Promising Innovation
QWO represents a significant advancement in cellulite treatment, offering a non-surgical, science-backed solution for smoother skin on the buttocks. Backed by rigorous clinical trials and FDA approval, it provides a valuable option for women seeking noticeable and lasting improvement in the appearance of cellulite dimples. If you’re considering QWO, consulting with a board-certified aesthetic provider can help determine if it’s the right choice for your individual needs and goals.