Fat-dissolving injections, or lipolysis treatments, have emerged as a popular non-surgical solution for contouring the face and body. While the technique is the same, injecting a product to break down fat, the ingredients inside these injections make all the difference.

In this article, we compare the active ingredients of three of the most well-known lipolysis products:

• Vitalvial: Bromelain + Vitamin B2 + Lecithin
• Kabelline: Deoxycholic Acid
• Lipolab: PPC (Phosphatidylcholine)

We’ll explore how each works, what results you can expect, and which one might be best for your needs, whether you’re a skincare beginner or a medical aesthetics professional.

What Is Lipolysis and Why Ingredient Choice Matters

Lipolysis refers to the breakdown of fat cells, a process that can be triggered through diet, exercise, or, in the case of aesthetic medicine, via injectable solutions. These fat-dissolving injections are placed strategically in stubborn areas (like the double chin, jowls, thighs, or abdomen) to destroy fat cells, which are then flushed out by the body over several weeks.

But not all lipolysis products work the same. The active ingredient determines:

• How aggressively is fat broken down
• How much swelling or inflammation occurs
• How quickly do results appear
• Whether the product supports skin tightening or causes laxity

Let’s dive into the key players and their core ingredients.

Vitalvial: Natural Enzyme Power with Bromelain, B2 & Lecithin

Ingredients:

• Bromelain: An enzyme extracted from pineapple stems that gently degrades fat and reduces inflammation
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Helps boost energy production in cells and aids in the breakdown of fats
• Lecithin: A fat-emulsifying compound found naturally in soy and eggs

Mechanism:

Vitalvial works by using enzymatic action (Bromelain) to gradually break down fat cells without causing aggressive cell rupture. It also supports skin recovery, metabolic energy, and elasticity with Vitamin B2 and Lecithin. It is gentler than acid-based formulas and has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce post-treatment swelling.

Highlights:

• Minimal swelling
• Improves skin firmness
• Great for facial contouring (under chin, jawline)
• Often well-tolerated in sensitive clients

Kabelline: Potent Deoxycholic Acid for Rapid Fat Breakdown

Ingredient:

• Deoxycholic Acid: A synthetic bile salt that breaks down fat by destroying the outer membrane of fat cells (adipocytes)

Mechanism:

Kabelline uses cytolytic activity, meaning it physically destroys fat cell membranes, causing irreversible cell death. The fat is then cleared by the body’s natural metabolic processes. While highly effective, this approach also causes localized inflammation, which can lead to swelling, tenderness, and downtime.

Highlights:

• Best for submental fullness (double chin) or small, stubborn fat pockets
• Noticeable results in fewer sessions
• It might involve a slightly extended recovery period compared to alternative treatments.

Lipolab: Phosphatidylcholine-Based Lipolysis for Gradual Fat Reduction

Ingredient:

• Phosphatidylcholine (PPC): A naturally occurring compound in cell membranes that emulsifies fats and aids in their elimination

Mechanism:

PPC breaks down fat cells slowly by turning them into an emulsion-like fluid, which is then naturally processed and removed by the body through the lymphatic system. The effect is generally milder than deoxycholic acid and results build over time. It is often used on larger body areas like the stomach, thighs, and upper arms.

Highlights:

• Milder than DCA (less swelling)
• Best for body contouring
• Commonly paired with complementary ingredients to enhance overall effectiveness

Head-to-Head Ingredient Comparison Table

What to Consider Before Choosing a Lipolysis Product

Before selecting a product, consider the following:

1. Treatment Area

• For small, delicate areas like the face, Vitalvial offers gentle, natural results with skin-tightening effects.
• For more stubborn fat deposits in the abdomen or chin, Kabelline provides a faster solution.
• If you’re targeting larger zones like thighs or arms, Lipolab might be more appropriate due to its broader, gradual effect.

2. Downtime and Recovery

• If your client cannot afford visible swelling, opt for Vitalvial or Lipolab.
• For clients wanting fast, dramatic results (and who can handle a few days of swelling), Kabelline is ideal.

3. Skin Quality Goals

• If improving skin texture and elasticity is a priority alongside fat reduction, Vitalvial’s Lecithin and B2 content is a game-changer.

Expert Opinion: Can These Ingredients Be Combined?

Some advanced aesthetic clinics combine different ingredients or stagger treatments over time to enhance overall results through a synergistic approach. For example:

• A session of Vitalvial for enzymatic fat breakdown and skin tightening
• Kabelline can then be used to more aggressively address any remaining stubborn fat pockets
• Or Lipolab for volume reduction in larger body areas over time

Always follow manufacturer guidelines and ensure treatment is supervised by trained professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is deoxycholic acid safe?

Yes, it’s widely used in products like Kybella and Kabelline. However, it can cause swelling, tenderness, or bruising, especially in sensitive areas.

2. Can bromelain cause allergies?

Rarely, but it’s possible—especially for people with pineapple allergies. It’s best to consult a qualified professional or conduct a patch test beforehand to ensure safety and compatibility.

3. Which ingredient works fastest?

Deoxycholic acid (Kabelline) typically shows the fastest results but has higher inflammation. Vitalvial works more gradually while improving skin quality.

4. Can I use these products at home?

No. Lipolysis injections should always be administered by licensed medical professionals to ensure safety, efficacy, and proper dosing.

Conclusion

Each lipolysis product offers its unique benefits, so the best choice depends on your personal goals and treatment preferences. If you’re looking for a gentle, natural solution that also helps improve skin texture and firmness, Vitalvial—with its blend of Bromelain, Vitamin B2, and Lecithin—is an excellent option. For those who want fast, visible fat reduction and don’t mind a bit of swelling, Kabelline’s powerful Deoxycholic Acid formula delivers strong results in fewer sessions. And if you’re aiming to slim down larger body areas over time with minimal irritation, Lipolab’s PPC-based formula provides a steady, gradual approach. Understanding what each ingredient does—whether it’s breaking down fat cells, supporting metabolism, or tightening the skin—can help you or your provider create a treatment plan that truly aligns with your body goals and lifestyle.