Carboxytherapy
Carboxytherapy uses carbon dioxide gas to improve the appearance of the skin – for example, to treat dark circles under the eyes, stretch marks and cellulite.
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Important note
This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or advice. If you are unsure, or if you require a personalised treatment plan, it is essential that you consult a qualified specialist.
In aesthetic medicine, new, gentle procedures are constantly being developed to improve the appearance of the skin without the need for surgery. One such innovative procedure is carboxytherapy, which utilises a well-known gas in a new way: carbon dioxide. The method promises to lighten dark circles under the eyes, reduce the appearance of stretch marks and even combat cellulite.
But what exactly is this treatment all about? In our glossary entry, we provide a thorough and objective explanation of the scientific principles behind carboxytherapy and its areas of application, and offer a realistic assessment of the benefits and risks.
Definition: What is carboxytherapy?
The Carboxytherapy is a minimally invasive medical procedure in which sterile, medical Carbon dioxide (CO2) is injected in small doses directly under the skin (subcutaneously). The aim of the treatment is to significantly increase local microcirculation and oxygen supply to the tissue.
This process stimulates cell renewal and the formation of new collagen, which can lead to an improvement in the skin’s texture, elasticity and appearance.
The science behind it: How the Bohr effect rejuvenates the skin
The effect of carboxytherapy is based on a clever mechanism inherent to the body, known as the Bohr effect.
Imagine this: the small amount of CO₂ injected wrongly signals to the body that there is a local lack of oxygen. The body automatically responds with a physiological adaptation to improve the local oxygen supply.
- Vasodilation The blood vessels in the treated area dilate, which improves local blood flow.
- Oxygen release According to the Bohr effect, the red blood cells (haemoglobin) carried in the blood release more oxygen (O₂) to the surrounding tissue when CO₂ concentrations rise.
- Regeneration This sudden surplus of oxygen and nutrients acts like a turbo boost for the cells. The fibroblasts are stimulated to produce new Collagen and elastin stimulates the skin, tightening and regenerating it. When applied to adipose tissue, the pressure of the gas can also cause mechanical damage to fat cells (lipolysis).
What does a treatment session involve?
- Advice & Disinfection Following a detailed consultation, the area of skin to be treated is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
- Injection The practitioner connects a very fine needle to a special device that precisely controls the flow and volume of medical-grade CO₂. The gas is then slowly injected into the target tissue at several points.
- Perception Patients often report a slight sensation of pressure, tightness or tingling during the injection. A harmless, crackling sensation on the skin (subcutaneous emphysema) may occur as the gas spreads briefly beneath the skin.
- Duration & aftercare A session lasts only about 15 to 30 minutes. Afterwards, you can resume your normal activities straight away. Special aftercare is not usually required.
The main benefits and effects for the skin
Carboxytherapy is used for a wide range of aesthetic conditions:
Dark circles under the eyes
Particularly in the case of bluish, translucent rings caused by poor microcirculation.
Stretch marks (striae)
For fresh (reddish) stretch marks, it helps to stimulate collagen repair; for older (white) stretch marks, the effect is limited.
Cellulite
To improve blood circulation and firm up the connective tissue.
Localised fat deposits
To help reduce fat in small areas such as a double chin or „saddlebags“.
Skin tightening
On areas such as the neck, décolletage or upper arms.
Scar treatment
To soften atrophic scars or acne scars.
Reality check: How well is its effectiveness substantiated?
Although carboxytherapy has been in use for years and its physiological mechanism of action is plausible, the evidence from scientific studies varies depending on the area of application.
| Field of application | Scientific evidence & realistic expectations |
|---|---|
| cells | |
| cells | |
| cells | |
| cells |
Key risks and side effects
When carried out correctly by qualified staff, carboxytherapy is considered to have very few side effects. Nevertheless, there are risks.
Potential risks and contraindications
- Common side effects: Mild pain at the injection site, redness, swelling and small bruises (haematomas) are common and will subside on their own. The tingling sensation under the skin will disappear within a few hours.
- Key application risks: It is permitted to exclusively sterile, medical-grade carbon dioxide be used. The injection of non-medical gas can lead to a dangerous gas embolism! The treatment must therefore be carried out by an experienced doctor or alternative practitioner using certified equipment.
- Contraindications: This treatment must not be administered to people with acute skin infections, severe heart or lung conditions, kidney failure, blood clotting disorders, or during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding.
Anyone wishing to protect themselves financially against the costs of potential follow-up treatment prior to a planned cosmetic procedure can take out a Consequential Costs Insurance complete.
How much does carboxytherapy cost?
The cost depends on the area being treated and the number of sessions required. To achieve a lasting result, a course of 6 to 10 sessions This is required every 1–2 weeks.
- Small areas (e.g. under-eye circles): Approx. €50 – €150 per session.
- Larger areas (e.g. thighs affected by cellulite): approx. €150 – €300 per session
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about carboxytherapy
Most patients find the treatment easy to tolerate. The injection itself is a brief prick, followed by a sensation of pressure or tightness, which subsides quickly.
An improvement in blood circulation is often noticeable after just the first session. However, collagen production is a slow process. Visible improvements in skin texture usually only become apparent after 3–4 sessions.
Once a course of treatment has been completed, the results – particularly in terms of skin rejuvenation – can last for 6 to 12 months in many patients, although individual results may vary. Regular maintenance sessions (e.g. every 6 months) are recommended to maintain the results.
No. Carbon dioxide is a natural gas that is constantly produced in our bodies as a waste product of metabolism. The small amounts used during treatment are exhaled completely via the lungs within a very short time.
Yes, carboxytherapy can often be combined very effectively with other treatments such as microneedling, PRP (autologous blood therapy) or mesotherapy to enhance the regenerative effects.
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