Carbon dioxide therapy
Carbon dioxide therapy

Background

Carbon dioxide therapy, or carboxytherapy, is a non-surgical technique that involves injecting carbon dioxide (a colorless, odorless gas) beneath the skin. It is one of the more recent techniques used for various cosmetic purposes and is usually administered with liposuction.

People use this for...

Carbon dioxide therapy has been used for cosmetic reasons and also medical conditions such as rheumatism, psoriasis, Raynaud's disease, and Beurger's disease.

There is insufficient reliable evidence about the safety of carbon dioxide therapy for any condition.

Natural Medicines rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.

Dosing & administration

    Adverse effects

    General: Side effects of carbon dioxide therapy are generally localized and short-term. They include pain, tingling, warmth, and bruising at the injection site.

    Interactions with pharmaceuticals

    None known.

    Interactions with herbs & supplements

    None known.

    Interactions with foods

    None known.

    Interactions with lab tests

    Interactions with diseases

    Mechanism of action

    Cellulite refers to fat deposits under the skin that make skin look lumpy and dimpled, typically in soft tissue areas, such as the thighs and belly. Carbon dioxide therapy has been theorized to reduce cellulite, reduce scarring, lighten dark circles under the eyes and improve other skin irregularities. Proponents theorize that carbon dioxide therapy may improve circulation and may break down fat cells. Once the carbon dioxide has entered the subcutaneous tissue, it quickly spreads into the surrounding subcutaneous tissues.

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    This monograph was last reviewed on 23/04/2015 16:19:23 and last updated on 11/08/2015 15:47:59. Monographs are reviewed and/or updated multiple times per month and at least once per year.
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