Carboxytherapy as a Treatment Method
Carboxytherapy is an effective and non-invasive therapeutic method that involves the application of carbon dioxide (CO₂) under the skin to improve blood circulation, support tissue regeneration, and enhance skin appearance. The injected carbon dioxide induces mild hypoxia (oxygen deficiency) in the tissues. The body responds by increasing blood flow and dilating blood vessels, thus improving the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues.
History
Carboxytherapy has been used since 1932. It originated from experiences in balneotherapy and was first implemented in the French spa town of Royat.
In balneotherapy—medical spa treatment—so-called “gas injections” are known and primarily used to treat joint problems, poor circulation in the lower limbs (ischemic disease), impaired skin circulation in diabetics, and also in patients with systemic vascular and cardiac diseases (bradycardia, low blood pressure).
In recent years, this unique method has gained popularity in dermatology, aesthetic dermatology, and anti-aging medicine.
General Information
Carboxytherapy is becoming increasingly popular among leading global experts and celebrities, who prefer it over more aggressive rejuvenation methods (lasers, gold threads, facelifts).
It is not only used by clients seeking to reduce signs of aging in a sophisticated way, but also by patients with non-healing leg ulcers, diabetic wounds, or surgical wounds that do not heal.
Carboxytherapy is also effective for certain manifestations of psoriasis when combined with traditional treatments, for localized scleroderma (circumscribed sclerosis), and in cases of hair loss.
In aesthetic dermatology, its main benefits come from vasodilation and the stimulation of intradermal collagen remodeling. This effect is usually visible very quickly—typically after just two treatments (within 7–14 days). Skin tone and other aesthetic parameters significantly improve, especially in sagging areas like the abdomen, arms, inner thighs, double chin, and even eyelids—though treating eyelids requires significant experience.
Carboxytherapy also improves the appearance of stretch marks, cellulite, and scars (including older or extensive ones, particularly after burns).
It is very effective for correcting some failed cosmetic procedures (e.g., after liposuction) and shaping problematic areas (thighs, hips, abdomen), though this usually requires 5–10 treatments.
As with all methods, there are patients who do not respond as expected—often due to unhealthy lifestyles or habits the patient is unwilling to change.
What is Carboxytherapy?
- Subcutaneous application of gas injections
- Minimally invasive method
- Non-surgical method
- Non-aggressive method
- Non-toxic method
- Safe method
- Does not cause embolization
- Economical – low-cost method
- Comfortable for the patient
- No side effects
Principle
Carboxytherapy involves injecting medical-grade carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the subcutaneous tissue using fine needles. The method does not require anesthesia. The treatment is safe and non-toxic since CO₂ is a naturally occurring byproduct of cellular metabolism, transported in the blood, and exhaled by the lungs.
Medical CO₂ is also commonly used in laparoscopic surgeries.
Application Method
For dermatology and aesthetic medicine, a special device called INCO2, manufactured by Medexim spol. s r.o., Piešťany, is used.
Treatment parameters are adjusted based on the indication and treatment area. Very fine needles are used for the procedure. Settings are customized based on the patient’s sensitivity. The treatment must not be uncomfortable or painful—parameters are adjusted until the patient feels no discomfort.
One session takes 20–40 minutes, and the amount of CO₂ used is always within safe limits for the patient.
Safety of the Method
Guaranteed through use of a system certified in Europe
Manufacturer ensures non-toxicity when following all recommended guidelines and using medical CO₂
Effects of Therapy
Patients often see positive effects after just 1–2 treatments. In some cases—such as facial rejuvenation—the final results and especially the safety may surpass those of botulinum toxin (Botox) applications.
For aesthetic dermatology procedures targeting specific body areas, results usually appear after 6–8 sessions. At least 10 treatments are recommended, 1–2 times per week, with additional sessions based on the condition of the skin and treatment response.
Treating certain skin diseases may take longer.
The longevity of results depends on lifestyle. A healthy diet, physical activity, and avoiding alcohol and harmful substances contribute to long-lasting effects. To maintain results, repeating the treatment 2–3 times per year is recommended.
Recommended Number of Carboxytherapy Sessions
Depends on the patient's goals, diagnosis, and treatment area.
For maintenance, it is advisable to repeat the therapy 2–3 times per year.
On average, 10 sessions are required per treatment area.
Important Notices
Carboxytherapy treatments must be performed only by a doctor who has completed a specialized course or training and possesses a valid certificate, which must be presented upon request.
Training Course
Training is available only in Eastern Slovakia at a single facility – DOST Svidník.
Indications
Medical Indications:
- Psoriasis
- Varicose veins and signs of chronic venous insufficiency
- Ulcers – chronic wounds
- Diabetic wounds
- Ischemic wounds
- Post-surgical and trauma-related wounds
- Acrocyanosis
- Raynaud's syndrome
- Buerger’s disease
- Alopecia (hair loss)
- Scleroderma
Aesthetic Medicine Indications:
- Wrinkle reduction
- Skin rejuvenation
- Improved skin firmness
- Smoothing of deep and superficial wrinkles
- Subcutaneous fat reduction
- Body contour correction (e.g., post-liposuction)
- Lipomatosis
- Significant cellulite improvement
- Visible improvement or elimination of stretch marks (e.g., post-pregnancy), scars
- Keloid treatment
Treatment Areas
- Face
- Neck and décolleté
- Abdomen
- Lower limbs
- Upper limbs
- Buttocks
- Areas around chronic and non-healing wounds
- Post-traumatic wound areas