Carboxytherapy

How it works

A device controls the flow of carbon dioxide through thin tubing to a fine needle. The gas is released just beneath the skin, where it causes a brief stretching of the tissue and a local rise in blood flow as the body reacts. Some practitioners use it to support circulation in the under-eye region or to address small fat deposits. The evidence base is limited compared with that for other treatments, results vary by person, and the effect is generally subtle.

Who it may suit

• Mild dark circles with a visible vascular component
• Small, localized fat areas where a gentle method is preferred
• Skin texture and stretch-mark appearance as a supporting step
• People who prefer to avoid heat-based devices
• Those willing to attend a short series of visits

The treatment day

1. Assessment. The doctor identifies the area and checks for conditions that make gas injection unsuitable.
2. Preparation. The skin is cleaned and numbing is applied only if the area is sensitive.
3. Gas delivery. A fine needle releases carbon dioxide in small amounts at several points across the area.
4. Review. The area is checked for swelling or marks, and the next visit is planned.

Aftercare

• Expect mild tenderness and avoid pressing on the area
• Skip hot tubs and heavy exercise on the day of treatment
• Use cold compresses if swelling appears
• Keep to the visit schedule suggested by the doctor
• Report severe pain or spreading discoloration

Things to know first

• A crackling sensation under the skin, a feeling of pressure and brief stinging are common during treatment
• Bruising, swelling and soreness can last several days, and bruising near the eyes is more visible
• It is generally avoided in pregnancy, in people with certain heart, lung or clotting conditions, and over infected skin
• Results are modest, differ between people and may need maintenance visits
• It does not replace surgery or liposuction for larger fat volumes

What the price of carboxytherapy depends on

Pricing is typically per session, and each session is defined by the area. The under-eye zone, an abdomen, a pair of thighs and a set of stretch marks are different amounts of gas and time, so the first question is which zone the figure covers. Ask whether it means one eye or both, one thigh or both.

The course is the second driver. Plans often involve several visits spaced a week or two apart, and a single-session figure can therefore make the total look smaller than it is. Ask how many visits the doctor expects for your goal, how results are reviewed along the way and what a maintenance visit would involve.

Supporting lines can add up: a consultation fee, numbing cream if used, and disposable needles and tubing that some clinics itemize. Because evidence for this treatment is limited and results are subtle, starting with a short trial of sessions can be more sensible than buying a long package. Confirm the tax status and the policy on unused sessions before paying.