Qwo Is the First Fda-Approved Injectable Treatment for Cellulite

It's estimated that anywhere between 80 and 90% of women have cellulite, and yet, so many of us are insecure about it. It doesn't matter what you eat, how much you exercise, or your weight — cellulite is one of those things that doesn't permanently go away, despite what many topical creams and lotions try to sell you.

However, if you are one of 49% of women who is bothered "a great deal" or "a lot" by your dimples, you'll be delighted to know that the first FDA-approved cellulite-treating injectable recently hit the market. Everyone, meet QWO.

What is QWO?

Essentially, it's a cellulite-reducing injectable. Kim Nichols, MD, explains that QWO is an enzyme that, in liquid form, breaks down the collagen in the fibrous bands, which are the bands under the skin that pull down on subcutaneous fat and cause cellulite. QWO's enzyme works by targeting the buildup of collagen in those bands.

What Does the QWO Treatment Involve?

Bruce Katz, MD, of JUVA Skin and Laser Center, shares that QWO requires three sessions and that each takes about 10 minutes, depending on how many injections are required. Dr. Nichols adds that it ranges between 12 to 24 injection points per treatment and that the number is based on how many dimples the person has.

Currently, QWO is only FDA-approved for the buttocks area. However, both doctors say it can be used off-label to treat cellulite in other areas of the body, such as the thighs and stomach.