What is this EMSCULPT® treatment I keep hearing about? And how does it work? These are the questions I asked myself after seeing an increasing buzz online about SILK Laser Clinics’ newest body sculpting treatment, EMSCULPT®.

It made me think about my core and I became more aware of my posture, often catching myself whilst scrolling my phone, slumping in my chair, or hunching my shoulders whilst standing – all indicators of a weak core. It was early 2021 and I had just started a new gym membership, so I thought I would give my efforts a boost and long story short – I walked into SILK Laser Clinics and left with a stronger core.

Let me break it down for you with a Q&A:

What is EMSCULPT®?
EMSCULPT® is a game-changer. It’s a body-contouring treatment that builds muscle and burns fat. The evolutionary technology delivers the equivalent of 20,000 sit-ups or squats in a 30-minute session. EMSCULPT® is even backed by at least 13 clinical studies which EMSCULPT®’s manufacturer, BTL, has carried out. As well, there are an additional 7 independent studies relating to this technology.

How does it work?
EMSCULPT® uses magnetic field energy technology to induce 20,000 deep, intense muscle contractions. When it comes to the abdomen, this disrupts fat cells, and shapes, tones and strengthens your muscles.

What areas of my body can I have treated with EMSCULPT®?
The most popular areas are abs/core and butt. However, you can also treat legs and arms. Did you know, EMSCULPT® is the world’s first non-invasive butt lift alternative – there’s nothing like sculpting an Insta-worthy peach with ease!

What happens in the initial EMSCULPT® consultation?
My technician talked through EMSCULPT® and how it could benefit me. I decided I was happy to proceed with the treatment, focusing on my weak core. I had my before photos taken and then hopped onto the bed. The technician attached the EMSCULPT® device to my stomach, turned on the machine, and my muscles were put through their paces.

How many treatments do I need to start seeing results?
Generally, an EMSCULPT® treatment plan consists of 4 sessions, 20 to 30 minutes each, scheduled 2-3 days apart. You’ll clarify this with your SILK technician during your initial consultation.

Who is EMSCULPT® suitable for?
EMSCULPT® treatments are suitable for men and women, as long as you aren’t pregnant or don’t have a pacemaker or metal implants. Generally, people with a healthy BMI will see more visible results.

Does EMSCULPT® replace exercise?
Whilst EMSCULPT® will still deliver results without engaging in exercise, the treatment works best when paired with regular physical exercise. Given that as we age, we lose muscle, especially if we don’t use our muscles. EMSCULPT® is that kickstart to helping you remain strong.

Does it hurt?
EMSCULPT® isn’t painful. At first, EMSCULPT® took my breath away, the feeling was like nothing I’d ever experienced before. The contractions deliver an intense vibration sensation, and whilst the feeling is strong and powerful, it’s definitely not painful. Throughout the treatment, the contractions started to feel more comfortable as my body adjusted. The machine changes frequency every few minutes with a much slower tapping cycle, pulsing to remove lactic acid build up, which is what causes muscle stiffness – how amazing is that!

Will my abs/butt hurt after?
While you won’t have DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness), you’ll feel like you did a great ab workout. I hear this is the same with the EMSCULPT® butt lift – talk about booty goals!

When will I start seeing results?
Right after my first session I started to feel the results. My core was getting stronger after each session and my posture started to improve. I started to see visible results a couple of weeks after my final session. Generally, results show 2-4 weeks after the last session and continue to improve for a few weeks after the treatment is complete.

What does the machine do over the 30-minute session?
The EMSCULPT® machine is strapped to your selected area – in my case, my stomach – delivering intense muscle contractions. It alternated every few minutes with a much slower tapping cycle, pulsing to remove lactic acid build up.

What do I do during the 30-minute treatment?
The 30 minutes goes quickly. The first couple of minutes I spent focusing on my breathing and getting used to the timing of the contractions. Once I adjusted to the sensation, I started to relax, and then it was over! You can even add a skin treatment while having your EMSCULPT® treatment to really maximise your time.

What is the downtime after an EMSCULPT® treatment? Will I get sweaty and need to change my clothes after?
There is no downtime! The initial consult is slightly longer than your other 30-minute sessions, but that’s all it takes. You don’t sweat and no change of clothes is required. You could pop out to SILK Laser Clinics on your lunch break and return to the office without anyone noticing you’ve basically done 20,000 crunches.

Do you recommend EMSCULPT®?
For anyone wanting to build muscle, tone up or increase strength, I definitely recommend EMSCULPT®. After completing my four sessions and feeling and seeing my core strength develop over that time and the weeks after, I am one happy EMSCULPT® advocate. The team at SILK Laser Clinics were amazing, very educated, and made me feel safe and comfortable throughout the treatment plan. I’ve already booked in for the EMSCULPT® butt lift in a few weeks’ time – I’m so excited to return to SILK and tone up that peach!