We do not often speak about magic. But carboxy therapy has a sprinkle. As aesthetic treatments have become more popular in recent years, more individuals are seeking non-invasive options to enhance their appearance and address skin and body concerns, with certain treatments trending harder than others. Among the wide variety of cosmetic options available, carboxytherapy has emerged as a versatile treatment that offers benefits ranging from cellulite reduction to skin rejuvenation. And it does it like no other.
What is Carboxytherapy?
Carboxytherapy is a cosmetic medical treatment that involves injecting carbon dioxide (CO2) gas into the skin or subcutaneous tissue. This technique capitalises on the body’s natural response to increased CO2 levels, which includes vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels) to improve oxygen delivery and circulation. By leveraging these effects, carboxytherapy aims to enhance skin health, promote collagen production, and even stimulate the breakdown of fat cells.
According to the founder of Fiore Aesthetics Flavio Refrigeri, who is also a trainer and educator, carboxytherapy is a fantastic way to boost blood flow and stimulate collagen production. This powerful combination rejuvenates the skin from within, effectively reducing fine lines, dark circles, and even stubborn cellulite. He likens it to hitting the refresh button for your skin, with noticeable results often appearing after just the second or third session within a short 4–6-week programme.
How Does Carboxytherapy Work?
The mechanism of action for carboxytherapy includes several key processes:
- Vasodilation: One of the key mechanisms by which carboxytherapy benefits the skin. When CO2 is injected into the skin, it causes the blood vessels to dilate, which significantly improves blood circulation in the treated area. This enhanced circulation boosts the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to the skin cells, aiding in the healing process and reducing inflammation. Improved blood flow also facilitates the removal of toxins and waste products from the skin, leading to a healthier complexion. This process reduces puffiness and enhances skin radiance, making you look more vibrant.
- Lipolysis: The breakdown of fat cells, makes carboxy therapy an effective treatment for body contouring and reducing localised fat deposits. The introduction of CO2 triggers a metabolic response that increases the breakdown of fat cells in the subcutaneous tissue. This not only aids in the reduction of stubborn fat pockets but also helps smooth out areas prone to cellulite, giving the skin a firmer and more toned appearance. By targeting specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or arms, carboxytherapy can help refine the body’s contours.
- Collagen Production: Collagen is a crucial protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin, and its natural production decreases as we age, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. The injection of CO2 into the skin stimulates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen, thereby boosting collagen synthesis. This leads to firmer, more elastic skin and is particularly beneficial for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Enhanced collagen production also improves the overall resilience and texture of the skin, making it look plumper and more hydrated.
Applications of Carboxytherapy
Carboxytherapy is widely used for reducing cellulite by improving circulation and breaking down fat deposits. This treatment helps smooth out the dimpled appearance of cellulite, making the skin look firmer and more even. The increased blood flow enhances tissue oxygenation, which can significantly improve the skin’s overall texture and tone, making it a popular choice for those looking to address cellulite in areas like the thighs and buttocks.
The treatment is also effective for skin rejuvenation. It targets wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin tone by boosting collagen production and improving skin elasticity. These effects help enhance the skin’s texture, resulting in a more youthful and radiant appearance. This makes carboxytherapy an appealing option for individuals seeking to refresh their skin without undergoing invasive procedures.
Carboxytherapy can also improve the appearance of scars, including acne scars, by promoting skin regeneration and stimulating collagen production. The increased circulation aids in the healing process, helping to soften and reduce the visibility of scars over time. This treatment offers a non-invasive approach to scar management, which can be beneficial for those looking to improve their skin’s overall smoothness.
For individuals dealing with hair loss, carboxytherapy may support hair regrowth by enhancing blood circulation in the scalp. Improved circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles, which can promote healthier hair growth. This aspect of carboxytherapy provides a potential benefit for those experiencing thinning hair or conditions like alopecia, offering a non-surgical alternative for improving hair density.
Beyond these applications, carboxytherapy is also used for body contouring, targeting fat reduction in specific areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms. By breaking down localised fat deposits, the treatment contributes to a more contoured and toned physique. This approach allows for targeted body shaping without the need for surgical interventions, making it an attractive option for those seeking to refine their body contours.
The Procedure
A typical carboxytherapy session involves the following steps:
- Preparation: The skin is cleansed, and a topical anaesthetic may be applied if necessary to minimise discomfort.
- Injection: A fine needle is used to inject CO2 into the dermis or subcutaneous tissue. Patients might experience a series of small pinpricks during the injection.
- Session Duration and Frequency: Each session lasts about 30 minutes to an hour. Treatments are usually spaced a week apart, with 6-12 sessions recommended for optimal results.
Safety Protocol
Carboxy therapy is generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure, it does carry some risks. Common side effects include redness, swelling, and a warm sensation at the injection site, which are usually mild and temporary, resolving within a few hours. However, there are rare complications that can occur, such as infections, bruising, or hyperpigmentation. Additionally, there is a minimal risk of gas embolism, especially if the procedure is not performed correctly, underscoring the importance of having the treatment done by a qualified professional.
Effectiveness and Scientific Backing
Results from carboxytherapy are usually gradual, with noticeable improvements seen after several sessions. For conditions like cellulite, patients may observe smoother skin, while those targeting wrinkles might notice plumper, more youthful-looking skin. Although research supports the efficacy of carboxytherapy for improving microcirculation and reducing cellulite, further studies are needed to standardise treatment protocols and confirm long-term benefits.
The cost of carboxytherapy can vary depending on the location, expertise of the practitioner, and the area being treated. On average, prices range from £80 to £240 per session, making it a relatively accessible option compared to other aesthetic treatments.
Carboxytherapy may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions such as heart disease, respiratory issues, or those prone to keloid formation. It is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine suitability and discuss potential risks.
How Does Carboxytherapy Compare to Similar Treatments?
Compared to other aesthetic treatments like mesotherapy or laser therapy, carboxytherapy offers unique advantages, including minimal downtime and a natural approach that utilises the body’s physiological responses. While treatments like mesotherapy also involve injections, they typically deliver vitamins or enzymes rather than CO2, focusing more on skin nutrition rather than circulation.
Laser therapies, on the other hand, are more invasive and can require longer recovery times but may offer faster results for skin tightening and fat reduction. Carboxytherapy’s versatility and safety profile make it an appealing option for those seeking a holistic approach to skin and body concerns, combining well with other treatments for enhanced outcomes.
