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Aqualyx
Aqualyx vs Kybella – Comparing Fat Dissolving Treatments
Jun 17, 2025
Many individuals may not realize that fat cells don’t actually disappear when weight is lost. Instead, they shrink in size, while the overall number of fat cells remains unchanged. This phenomenon explains why some stubborn fat pockets persist despite diet and exercise. Factors such as genetics, metabolism, and lifestyle contribute to fat accumulation, prompting many to seek non-surgical solutions for targeted fat reduction.
Two popular treatments designed to address localized fat deposits are Aqualyx and Kybella. Both injectable solutions effectively dissolve fat, yet they differ in their formulation, application techniques, and overall effectiveness. Understanding these differences is crucial for individuals to select the treatment that best aligns with their aesthetic goals.
This article will compare Aqualyx and Kybella, focusing on key factors such as injection protocols, dosing, treatment areas, and effectiveness, to help patients make a well-informed decision based on their unique needs.
Key Takeaways
- Aqualyx and Kybella are both effective for non-surgical fat reduction. Kybella is FDA-approved for treating submental fat (double chin), while Aqualyx is CE-marked in Europe and used for broader body areas, though it lacks FDA approval in the U.S.
- Kybella uses synthetic deoxycholic acid, whereas Aqualyx incorporates buffer agents for a gentler effect.
- Aqualyx is typically used in more areas of the body, but it has not gone through the FDA’s approval process.
- Kybella has a grid-like injection pattern and requires fewer treatments, focusing on smaller areas. In contrast, Aqualyx uses a cannula and typically requires more sessions for larger areas, such as the abdomen or thighs.
- Kybella may cause more swelling and discomfort compared to Aqualyx, which generally results in milder swelling and a quicker recovery time. Both treatments can cause nodules or firmness, which typically resolve over time.
- Aqualyx is usually more affordable per session but may require more treatments, while Kybella tends to be more expensive but provides quicker results, especially for targeted areas.
- The choice between Aqualyx and Kybella depends on the treatment area and desired results. Kybella is ideal for smaller, more targeted areas, such as the double chin, while Aqualyx offers a gradual and more natural-looking reduction for larger areas.
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Formulation & Regulatory: Aqualyx CE‑marked vs Kybella FDA‑approved
Aqualyx and Kybella differ significantly in their formulation and regulatory approval processes. Kybella, FDA-approved in the U.S., contains a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid (a naturally occurring molecule that aids in the breakdown of fat), designed specifically for treating submental fat (commonly known as the double chin). The formulation is carefully controlled to ensure consistency in results, providing predictable fat reduction.
In contrast, Aqualyx, which is CE-marked in Europe, also contains deoxycholic acid but includes buffer agents that help reduce irritation and make the treatment gentler on the skin. This makes Aqualyx a preferred choice for individuals seeking a more comfortable experience with fewer side effects. Although Aqualyx is not FDA-approved, it is widely used in countries where CE-marked products are accepted.
It’s important to note that Kybella is approved exclusively for submental fat, while Aqualyx can be applied to various areas of the body, often off-label. This flexibility has contributed to Aqualyx‘s popularity, especially in non-U.S. markets.
Injection Protocols, Dosing, and Treatment Area Differences
Aqualyx and Kybella have distinct protocols and applications, each with its own dosing requirements and treatment areas.
Aqualyx
- Injection Pattern: Administered using a cannula and fan-shaped injection technique, which allows for even distribution over a broader area.
- Treatment Areas: Aqualyx is ideal for larger areas of localized fat, such as the abdomen, thighs, and flanks. It’s also commonly used for submental fat, though its off-label use extends to multiple body areas.
- Sessions Required: Typically requires multiple sessions, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. Most patients undergo 3-6 treatments depending on the size of the target area.
Kybella
- Injection Pattern: Utilizes a grid-like injection pattern with fine needles for precise placement.
- Treatment Areas: Primarily used for submental fat (double chin), though it is sometimes used off-label for other areas based on clinician expertise. It is FDA-approved for use on the chin but should only be used on other areas under careful guidance and professional discretion.
- Sessions Required: 2-4 vials are used per session, with a total of 2-6 treatments needed for optimal results. However, the number of treatments can vary depending on the individual’s needs and the size of the treatment area.
While Aqualyx is suited for broader areas of fat reduction, Kybella is best for more targeted treatments in the submental region. Swelling and tenderness are common with both treatments, making recovery a crucial factor in determining the most suitable approach. Consulting with a qualified professional is essential for a personalized treatment plan.
Side Effects Profile: Swelling, Pain, Nodules
Both Aqualyx and Kybella cause localized reactions that are part of the fat dissolution process. However, Kybella is often associated with more intense post-treatment inflammation due to its higher concentration of deoxycholic acid.
Kybella Common Side Effects
- Significant swelling that can last up to 10 days.
- Firmness or lumps under the skin, which are temporary.
- Bruising and pain at injection sites.
- Rare but serious nerve injury, particularly if injections are not performed correctly.
Aqualyx Common Side Effects
- Mild to moderate swelling, which typically subsides within a few days.
- Slight burning or tenderness during and immediately after the procedure.
- Temporary redness and bruising at the injection site.
- Nodules or firmness, which usually resolve over time.
Both products are generally well-tolerated. However, Aqualyx is often reported to cause less intense swelling and pain than Kybella, resulting in faster recovery times for some patients. However, Kybella may be preferred for its more rapid results in reducing submental fat.
Patient Satisfaction & Cost‑Effectiveness in Clinical Practice
When comparing Aqualyx and Kybella, patient satisfaction and cost-effectiveness play a significant role in treatment decisions. Both treatments offer non-surgical fat reduction, but their effectiveness and pricing differ based on the area treated and the number of required sessions.
Aqualyx
- Patient Satisfaction: Many patients report gradual, natural-looking fat reduction with Aqualyx. Aqualyx before and after results often show noticeable improvement after a series of treatments, particularly in areas like the abdomen or thighs.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Aqualyx is typically more affordable per session than Kybella, though it may require more sessions to achieve the same level of fat reduction. This can make Aqualyx a more cost-effective solution for broader areas.
Kybella
- Patient Satisfaction: Kybella results are typically faster, with noticeable improvement after just 1–2 sessions. Many patients see significant fat reduction in the double chin area.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Kybella tends to be more expensive per session. However, fewer treatments may be required to achieve visible results in targeted areas, such as the chin.
Overall, while both treatments can lead to swelling and discomfort, Aqualyx often provides progressive fat reduction over several sessions, with patients reporting gradual improvements. Kybella, although more expensive, may offer faster results in areas such as the double chin.
Conclusion
When choosing between Aqualyx and Kybella, the decision depends on treatment goals and the areas targeted for fat reduction.
Kybella is FDA-approved and ideal for reducing submental fat, offering quick and noticeable results. Aqualyx, though not FDA-approved in the U.S., is CE-marked in Europe and can treat a broader range of body zones, with gentler side effects and more affordable options per session. For broader areas of fat, Aqualyx might be the preferred choice, while Kybella excels in targeted fat reduction under the chin.
Consulting a qualified provider is key to determining which treatment aligns best with individual goals and desired outcomes. Practitioners can tailor the approach to each patient’s unique anatomy, skin type, and treatment expectations, ensuring the safest and most effective results.
FAQs
1. Is Aqualyx FDA-approved?
No, Aqualyx is not FDA-approved in the United States. It holds a CE-mark, which is a European regulatory standard.
2. How many sessions are needed for visible results?
Most patients need between 2 and 8 sessions spaced several weeks apart to see noticeable fat reduction.
3. What areas of the body can Aqualyx treat?
Aqualyx can be used on the chin, abdomen, thighs, arms, flanks, hips, and back, depending on practitioner expertise.
4. Is the procedure painful?
Discomfort is minimal. Aqualyx is often mixed with lidocaine to reduce pain during injection, and post-procedure soreness is mild.
5. Are results permanent?
Yes, Aqualyx permanently destroys fat cells in the treated area. However, weight gain can cause remaining fat cells to expand.
6. What are the main side effects of Aqualyx?
Mild swelling, redness, bruising, and temporary nodules are common but typically resolve within one to two weeks.
7. Can anyone get Aqualyx?
It’s intended for healthy adults with localized fat deposits. It’s not suitable for obese patients or those with certain medical conditions.
References
Hathaway B. New fat cells created quickly, but losing them …. Yale School of Medicine. Published March 2, 2015. https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/new-fat-cells-created-quickly-but-losing-them-/
Does Aqualyx work for fat dissolving? Aesthetic Medicine. https://aestheticmed.co.uk/do-fat-dissolving-injections-work
Zito PM, Nagrani NK. Injectable deoxycholic acid (ATX-101, KYBELLA) for nonsurgical submental contouring. Journal of the Dermatology Nurses’ Association. 2019;11(5):224-226. doi:10.1097/jdn.0000000000000490