EN

By

Daniel Frajdenrajch

· STARVAC · Expert advice

· Published on

October 5, 2026

In brief

Mechanical palper-rouler works the skin by forming a single fold between rollers. STARVAC Stretching Cellulaire® mobilises two folds of tissue at once, at surface and depth, with rhythmic suction. It is up to 2 times more effective than mechanical palper-rouler according to an SFAS clinical study (STARVAC data), with a HyperPulse® generation designed for comfort.

Mechanical palper-rouler in brief

Mechanical palper-rouler reproduces the manual palper-rouler movement: the skin is drawn up by suction and forms a single fold that rolls between two motorised rollers. This technique, used in salons for decades, mobilises the tissues to visibly smooth the skin and support slimming treatments.

Stretching Cellulaire® in brief

Stretching Cellulaire® is the method developed and patented by STARVAC, a French manufacturer since 1970. Using specific treatment heads, it forms a double fold of tissue and stretches the tissues rhythmically. The HyperPulse® generation makes this stimulation more dynamic and more comfortable.

The differences, point by point

CriterionMechanical palper-roulerStretching Cellulaire®
Skin foldA single foldTwo folds at once
ActionMainly surface mobilisationSurface and deep action
Compared effectivenessReferenceUp to 2 times more effective*
ComfortVaries by areaDynamic, comfortable stimulation (HyperPulse®)
AreasMainly the bodyBody and face depending on the device

*SFAS clinical study, according to STARVAC data: two folds of tissue worked versus one.

Why two folds instead of one?

Working two folds at the same time increases the area of tissue mobilised with each pass. The skin is stretched, released and mobilised again, which makes it possible to act on nodules and skin texture more precisely.

“The first thing clients notice is the comfort: the treatment is intense but never aggressive, and it can be adapted to each area.”

STARVAC partner professional

Key takeaways

  1. Mechanical palper-rouler forms a single fold of skin; Stretching Cellulaire® works two at once.
  2. The double fold acts at surface and depth in the same movement.
  3. According to an SFAS clinical study (STARVAC data), Stretching Cellulaire® is up to 2 times more effective than mechanical palper-rouler.
  4. The HyperPulse® generation makes stimulation more dynamic without losing comfort.
  5. Both approaches are natural and non-invasive: the choice depends on goals, areas and the comfort you are looking for.

How do you choose for your salon?

The right choice depends on your clients and your treatment menu: cellulite, firmness, figure, face. Stretching Cellulaire® is available on DXtwin HyperPulse® (body and face) and DXsmart HyperPulse® (body and face, pre-set protocols), with protocols adapted to each goal. Combined with a STARVAC DIAG® assessment and Pressodynamie®, it fits into a complete approach.

Conclusion

Mechanical palper-rouler and Stretching Cellulaire® share the same philosophy: natural, non-invasive treatments that mobilise the tissues. Stretching Cellulaire® goes further with its double fold and its HyperPulse® generation, for more complete and more comfortable treatments.

Frequently asked questions

Is Stretching Cellulaire® painful?

No. The stimulation is intense but comfortable, and the intensity is adapted to each client and each area.

Is Stretching Cellulaire® a palper-rouler technique?

No. Stretching Cellulaire® is a distinct method: it forms two simultaneous folds of tissue instead of rolling a single fold.

Can it be used on the face?

Yes, with DXtwin HyperPulse® or DXface®, thanks to treatment heads dedicated to the face.

How many sessions are needed?

A programme of 10 sessions is usually recommended, followed by maintenance sessions.

Find out more