Carboxytherapy: What it is, What it is For and Risks

Carboxytherapy is a treatment that is performed for aesthetic or therapeutic purposes that involves the application of gas injections, specifically, of carbon dioxide below the skin to eliminate cellulite, stretch marks, localized fat and eliminate sagging of the skin.

The carboxytherapy gas works by improving cell circulation and tissue oxygenation. It has various applications, when it is performed on the face increases the production of collagen; in the case of the buttocks it reduces cellulite and; fights localized fat, destroying fat cells, and can be used in the abdomen, arms and thighs.

The only professional trained to perform carboxytherapy is a professional esthetician or a dermatologist.

Does Carboxytherapy Hurt?

Carboxitherapy is done if it causes pain, because the gas inlet causes the skin to detach slightly, causing discomfort. However, the pain and inflammation is transient and lasts up to a maximum of 30 minutes, progressively improving.

However, pain tolerance varies from one person to another, so for some the treatment is tolerated perfectly as for others not.

What is it for and What are the Benefits

Carboxytherapy is especially indicated for:

• Cellulite: because it eliminates localized fat through the breakdown of adipocytes, which are the cells that store fat. It also increases blood circulation and lymphatic drainage in the region.
• Stretch marks:  because it stretches the tissues of the region and fills them with gas, stimulating the production of collagen, allowing creams applied to the skin to be better absorbed.
• Localized fat:  because it eliminates localized fat through the breakdown of adipocytes and improves blood circulation in the region where the treatment is applied.
• Flaccidity: because it favors the production of collagen fibers that give firmness to the skin;
• Dark circles: because it reduces inflammation, improves circulation and helps clear the skin of this area.

The number of sessions depends on the objective of the person, the region and the body of the person. Clinics usually offer packages of 10 sessions that should be done every 15-30 days, but the number of sessions should be indicated after the body evaluation.

Before and After Carboxytherapy

Risks, side Effects and Contraindications

The risks of carboxytherapy are rare, however, some side effects may arise such as:

• Pain and inflammation in the region where the injection was applied;
• Sensation of numbness or burning in the skin;
• Small bruises in the region where the injection was applied.

Due to the existence of some side effects, carboxytherapy is contraindicated during pregnancy and in cases of epilepsy, gangrene, phlebitis, heart or lung failure, renal or hepatic insufficiency, severe uncontrolled arterial hypertension and alterations in psychiatric behaviors.