Overview

Carboxytherapy is a treatment that consists of injecting medical-grade carbon dioxide gas into the skin. It can be performed on any area of the body, and is ideally suited to the treatment of stretch marks, cellulite, local fat deposits, wrinkle reduction, and the reduction of dark circles under the eyes.

Usually, a full course of carboxytherapy will consist of 4-10 treatment sessions.

Carbon dioxide is a colourless, odourless gas that is naturally part of the human body in balance with oxygen.

During carboxytherapy, carbon dioxide is injected into the skin, where it diffuses. The body then automatically tries to correct the imbalance between carbon dioxide and oxygen. It does so by increasing the blood flow, thereby delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the area of the injection.

The oxygen and other nutrients are important growth factors in the improvement of collagen production. As a result, carboxytherapy treatment improves skin elasticity, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and collagen repair, as well as destroying localised fatty deposits.

Studies have indicated that carboxytherapy can be used to improve any of the following:

  • Skin elasticity
  • Circulation
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Localised fat deposits
  • Dark under eye circles
  • Cellulite
  • Stretch marks.

Carboxytherapy for stretch marks, fine lines, and cellulite are common due to their visual similarity. Collagen stimulation from this treatment improves skin elasticity, which helps to rejuvenate skin, bringing it back to a plump, youthful appearance.

There are a number of medical conditions and/or medicines that may affect the decision to treat with carboxytherapy, or affect your treatment plan. Although carboxytherapy is very safe and has minimal side effects, a full medical history and assessment of your expectations will still be necessary in advance of any decision to treat. 

As with any injectable treatment, treatment is not recommended if:

  • You are suffering from any skin infection in or near the treatment area or are unwell in any way (even a cold).
  • You have previously experienced allergic reactions to any dermal filler or local anaesthetic.
  • You are taking any medicines which affect bleeding, such as aspirin or warfarin.
  • You are taking steroids or have autoimmune disease.
  • You have any bleeding disorders.
  •  You suffer from a poorly controlled medical condition.
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you are currently or have recently completed a course of Roacutane (Isotretinoin acne treatment) in the last 18 months.
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Immediately after treatment, there may be some skin redness and swelling, with some tenderness. These are all expected side effects, and will usually settle over a few days following treatment.

You may experience some bruising after carboxytherapy, depending on the area treated.

  • Make-up should not be worn for 12 hours after treatment.
  •  You will be advised to avoid alcohol, vigorous exercise, sunbathing, and extremes of heat or cold for 14 days post treatment.
  • Be sure to stay well hydrated following your procedure.
  • Your practitioner may recommend a soothing cream to calm the skin following carboxytherapy treatment, and to promote healing.

All treatments carry a degree of risk.

It’s important that the equipment being used for your carboxytherapy treatment is appropriate, and that your chosen practitioner is well trained. You can find a safe and qualified practitioner using the Save Face database.

Some common side effects may include:

  • Bruising or swelling
  • Warmness
  • Redness

These side effects all typically resolve within a few days post-treatment.

Any risks and possible side effects will be discussed at your consultation and prior to any treatment being agreed. Carboxytherapy is generally considered a very safe treatment, and has minimal recovery time and side effects.

The results of carboxytherapy are delivered over time. Usually, a full course will consist of between 4-10 treatments, 2-4 weeks apart. How many treatment sessions you have will depend on the condition of your treatment area before the carboxytherapy, and your desired outcome. 

Once achieved, results can be long term, or maintenance treatments will be recommended. This will depend on your personal treatment and lifestyle factors.

Find your carboxytherapy practitioner with Save Face. Every practitioner that appears in the Save Face search engine has passed or rigorous 116-point assessment. This assessment is used to prove that: 

  • They are who they say they are.
  • They are a registered nurse/midwife, doctor, dentist or prescribing pharmacist with specialist training and insurance in each treatment listed on their profile.
  • They use licensed products sourced from reputable suppliers.
  • They have all of the necessary paperwork in place to protect you from undue risk and harm.
  • Their clinic is safe and hygienic.

Click here to find your nearest Save Face accredited carboxytherapy, and start your treatment plan in safe hands.

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