What is icoone® and how does Roboderm® microstimulation work?

icoone® is a non-invasive treatment method based on mechanical microstimulation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Developed in Italy and used in specialised centres worldwide, it is based on a patented technology called Roboderm®. What is behind it, and how does it differ from other aesthetic procedures?

The scientific origin

The foundation of icoone® goes back to the research of the French hand and plastic surgeon Dr. Jean-Claude Guimberteau. In intra-tissue endoscopic recordings, he observed that subcutaneous tissue is not, as long taught, a homogeneous layer of fat, but a three-dimensional network of microvacuoles. These small cavities are bordered by collagen fibres (mainly types I and III) and work on the principle of tensegrity (tension integrity): they adapt to pressure and movement while retaining their structure.

With age and external influences (UV radiation, lack of movement, lymph congestion), this microvacuole structure loses its dynamics. This leads to the typical signs of skin ageing and tissue laxity.

The Roboderm® technology

Roboderm® technology was patented in 2008 and works with so-called microstimulators. These are treatment heads with a matrix of tiny pores. Through controlled vacuum and motorised rolling movements, they simultaneously generate:

• Mechanical stimulation of the skin (pull-push alternation)
• Vacuum activation of microcirculation
• Lymphatic flow stimulation through rhythmic movement

According to the manufacturer, thousands of microimpulses per minute are generated. The stimulation is three-dimensional, which distinguishes the method from classical vacuum massages that usually only pull two-dimensionally.

The three mechanisms of action

1. Mechanotransduction

Fibroblasts, the “building cells” of the dermis, respond to mechanical stimuli with biochemical signals. Under stimulation, they produce measurably more:

• Collagen (main structural protein of the skin)
• Elastin (provides elasticity)
• Hyaluronic acid (binds moisture in the tissue)

The principle is scientifically documented (Humbert et al., Clinical Interventions in Aging, 2015, with LPG Mécano-Stimulation; Palmieri, Maullu and Scuderi specifically on icoone® microstimulation without laser, documented at icoone.com/en/science).

2. Microcirculation

The vacuum and the rhythmic movement widen the smallest blood vessels. The supply of oxygen and nutrients to the tissue improves, and metabolic waste is removed more effectively.

3. Lymphatic drainage

The Roboderm® heads work in the flow direction of the lymphatic system. Stored fluids and metabolic waste are mobilised, decongesting the tissue.

What icoone® is used for

Body: – Cellulite – Skin tightening (stomach, upper arms, thighs, buttocks) – Body contouring (refining the silhouette) – Lymphatic drainage (heavy legs, water retention) – Scar and stretch mark treatment

Face: – Anti-ageing without needles – Contour definition (jawline, cheeks) – Fine lines – Décolleté

Medical (icoone® Medical): – Post-operative rehabilitation – Lymphoedema and venous insufficiency – Muscular tension and pain syndromes – Scar treatment

What sets icoone® apart

• No heat, no cold, no needles
• No downtime
• Suitable for almost all skin types
• Can be combined with other treatments

icoone® Beauty vs. icoone® Medical

The manufacturer distinguishes between two product lines:

icoone® Beauty: For aesthetic applications in specialised centres and cosmetic practices. Focus on skin tightening, cellulite, body contouring, anti-ageing.

icoone® Medical: CE-certified as a medical device. For rehabilitation clinics, physiotherapy, medical practices. Focus on scar treatment, lymphoedema, post-operative rehabilitation, pain syndromes.

Both lines are based on the same Roboderm® technology, but differ in settings, indication profile and approval context.

Scientific studies on icoone®

At icoone.com/en/science, clinical studies on Roboderm® technology are accessible as PDFs, including:

• Palmieri et al., Intermittent Microalveolar Stromal Stimulation (lymph activation, leg shaping)
• Maullu and Scuderi, Multi Micro Alveolar Stimulation (mechanised connective tissue massage)
• Scuderi, Randomised Clinical Trial (patient compliance, ergonomics)
• Multi Micro Alveolar Stimulation during Recovery from Caesarean Section (icoone® Medical, 2022)

Additionally, the Humbert study (Clinical Interventions in Aging 2015) documents the general principle of mechanical skin stimulation on fibroblasts, this study was conducted with an LPG device.

Who uses icoone®

icoone® is available in certified centres worldwide, including leading luxury clinics, wellness resorts, and specialised practices. In Switzerland, there are only a few official icoone® centres. The Praxis Anzhelika Wyss in Opfikon is one of them.

What icoone® cannot do

Honest delimitation:

• Not a weight-loss programme
• Not a substitute for surgical lifting procedures for significant skin excess
• No immediate results after a single session
• No “miracle tool”, it works within biological processes and requires time

Treatment in Opfikon

Single session 60 min.: CHF 195 Recommended course (10 sessions): CHF 175.50 per session · original suit included · valid for 12 months Intensive programme: from CHF 168 per session

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Also of interest: All massage treatments

Sources

• Guimberteau JC. The Sliding Mechanics of the Subcutaneous Structures in Man. Illustration of a Functional Unit: The Microvacuoles.
• Humbert P, et al. Mécano-Stimulation™ of the skin… Clinical Interventions in Aging 2015;10:387-403.
• icoone® scientific studies: icoone.com/en/science

Individual results may vary. This content does not replace medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

Is icoone® the same as Endermologie?

No. Both use vacuum and mechanical stimulation, but the technology differs. Endermologie works with motorised rollers, icoone® with patented micropores for three-dimensional stimulation, often perceived as gentler.

Does icoone® treatment hurt?

No. Most clients experience it as pleasant, comparable to an intensive massage. Pressure and intensity are adjusted individually.

Is icoone® possible during pregnancy?

Under clear conditions, yes. The abdominal area is always excluded. In practice, caution is applied in the first trimester; from the second trimester onward, treatment is generally possible after gynaecological or midwife clearance. Details in the article on icoone® during pregnancy.

Which body areas is icoone® suitable for?

For almost the entire body: face, neck, décolleté, upper arms, stomach, buttocks, thighs, calves. Scars and stretch marks are also treated. Not directly on open wounds, fresh scars before complete healing, or inflamed skin.

### Read more Cellulite: Why sport alone isn’t enough → · Skin tightening without surgery → · Body contouring →

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