Aesthetic

Carboxytherapy – Does it really work?

There are many controversial opinions about Carboxytherapy, however from years of experience with this phenomenal treatment, I have seen the results.

What is Carboxytherapy?

Carboxytherapy is a purified medical graded Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) gas therapeutically administered, by injecting medical graded CO₂ to the cutaneous and subcutaneous lasers of the skin. This gas is a naturally occurring gas in the body.

Although this treatment is becoming more popular and practiced, CO₂ was first described by Robert Boyle in the 1600’s and later by Antoine Lavoisier in the 1700’s. In 1777 CO₂ was used for chronic skin ulcers, in the 1950’s Cardiologists treated arteriopathies as well as peripheral vascular disease with CO₂.

Carboxytherapy is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Depending on the area and condition that is being treated, the amount of gas injected and the method of injecting is carefully regulated by the physician. A tank of carbon dioxide gas is connected to a flow-regulator, the gas is emitted through the flow-regulator and into sterile tubing before entering the cutaneous and subcutaneous lasers of the skin.

The procedure is mostly uncomfortable and it usually only takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete, depending on the area treated. Some physicians rub numbing cream on the injection site before inserting the needle, however due to the gas being cold the numbing cream is not effective for the sensation of the cold gas running under the skin. Some clients may experience a strange tingling sensation after the treatment as well as possible puffiness or swelling, this may last for about 10 – 30 minutes, depending on the client’s response. It’s a quick, 15- to 30-minute procedure.

What is Carboxytherapy used for?

Cellulite – Cellulite is caused when subcutaneous fat protrudes through the skin. Several studies have found that carboxytherapy is both safe and effective when used to treat cellulite.
Stretch marks – Are a rupture of dermal collagen. Carboxytherapy creates new collagen, which thickens the skin and improves its appearance.
Dark under-eye circles
Skin rejuvenation – Skin elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles – Eyelids, neck, face, arms, buttocks, stomach, and legs.

Circulation – increase blood circulation to a specific area by injecting carbon dioxide, causing the red blood cells to rush to the area.
Genital Rejuvenation
Alopecia, caused by poor blood circulation.
Fatty deposits, such as double chin, knees etc – Carbon dioxide gas can also be injected into fat cells, which causes the cells to burst and be eliminated in the body.
Assists in Lymphatic drainage
Collagen repair – Cell stimulation

You can return to normal routines immediately, aside from swimming and bathing in a tub for 24 hours after treatment for cellulite or fat reduction. Treated areas will feel warm and tingly after the treatment for up to 24 hours, as the carbon dioxide gas does its job and circulation improves. Clients may have bruising at the injection site, specifically in the arms and legs, this should clear up within a week.

With many years of experience in treating these conditions with Carboxytherapy, the key factor for optimal results is consistency. As with any procedure the severity of the damage that needs to be corrected will in fact play a role in the amount of session one would need as well as the time spaced in between. Treatment intervals are usually every 2 – 3 weeks, until the desired effect is reached, then one would move onto maintenance to ensure your results last, this is client dependant but no average it would be every 2 – 3 months thereafter. Please bare in mind that depending on the treatment performed there is always a homecare routine, such a healthy diet, possible lifestyle changes and a good detox!

Written By Skin & Laser Clinician Angie Chaplin

For as long as Angie can remember she has always been passionate about the Skin Care and Aesthetic industry. While completing her International Degree, she worked at various clinics to build as much experience and additional knowledge as possible. Once Angie had completed her International Degree in Somatology in 2011, she specialized in Aesthetic and Laser treatments. She has been privileged to work closely with Doctors and Dermatologists throughout her career, and has had the blessing of providing training for other Aesthetic Somatologists as well as Medical Practitioners within the industry. Angie has also worked with a large variety of lasers and machines, and believes that a combination of different treatments and products are always the key to quickly achieve optimal results.

Eugene