Carboxytherapy

How it works

A machine delivers a controlled flow of carbon dioxide through a very fine needle. The gas spreads under the skin and causes a feeling of pressure and sometimes a crackling sensation. The body responds by increasing local blood flow in the area, which is thought to be the reason for any skin change. The gas is then absorbed and exhaled. Several sessions are common, and results differ between people.

Who it may suit

• Mild dark circles that look related to thin, bluish skin
• Stretch marks or skin texture on a small body area
• People who want a treatment without implants or heat
• Those who are comfortable with injections and mild bruising
• Visitors who can attend a short course

The treatment day

1. Consultation. The doctor checks the area, asks about blood-thinning medicines, and explains the number of sessions.
2. Cleansing. The skin is cleaned. Numbing cream is not always used, so ask if you want it.
3. Gas injections. A fine needle delivers small doses of gas in lines or points. You may feel pressure, pinching or a bubbling sensation.
4. Short rest. The area is checked and cooled if needed. You can leave soon after.

Aftercare

• Avoid rubbing the treated area for the rest of the day.
• Use cold compresses if the area is tender.
• Skip strenuous exercise for a day or as the clinic advises.
• Cover small bruises with makeup only after the clinic says it is fine, and keep the skin clean.
• Take dated photos if bruising lasts.

Things to know first

• Bruising, tenderness, swelling and a tight feeling are common for a few days.
• Under the eyes, bruising may be more visible, so plan around events and photos.
• Not suitable if you are pregnant, have uncontrolled heart or lung disease, or take blood thinners without your doctor's approval.
• Rare risks include infection and gas collecting under the skin.
• Evidence is limited and results vary, so do not expect large changes.

Talking through carboxytherapy in English

The name is unusual, so many visitors have never heard it. Ask the coordinator to explain in one or two sentences: what is injected, where, and why. If an explanation uses the phrase "CO2 gas injection," that is the same treatment. Do not confuse it with CO2 laser, which is a different procedure.

Tell the doctor about any bleeding or clotting medicine, including aspirin and fish oil. Say if you bruise easily. If it is for dark circles, show photos in daylight and say what you have tried already.

Ask how many sessions are advised and what a realistic outcome is. This is a treatment where honesty about modest results is a good sign. If you cannot return for more sessions, ask whether a single one is worth doing.