An Overview of the Role of Carboxytherapy in Dermatology

Carboxytherapy, the process of injecting sterile purified carbon dioxide into the skin, is a safe, minimally invasive treatment used for skin rejuvenation and restoration. It has been found effective in treating various dermatological conditions such as skin aging, alopecia, cellulite, localized fat deposits, and striae distensae, according to multiple studies with varying numbers of participants (from 15 to 101). The therapy improves skin tonus and aesthetic parameters, usually after two sessions or over 7-14 days. Side effects are generally mild and include pain, burning sensation, erythema, and edema at the injection site. However, it is contraindicated in conditions like severe ischemic heart disease, untreated high blood pressure, severe anemia, renal failure, and pregnancy among others. The therapy requires 5 to 20 sessions, costing approximately $75 to $200 per session, with results lasting for months to years. More robust studies are needed to further explore the importance of carboxytherapy in managing different skin disorders and aesthetic conditions.