The fight against cellulite and localized fat has one more ally in carboxytherapy, which uses CO2 to achieve the desired results.

Although it is a technique whose results can be seen almost immediately, it must be borne in mind that, as always when talking about cellulite or localized fat, it is not a definitive treatment.

This treatment must be combined with a healthier lifestyle that includes a proper diet, good hydration, and regular exercise.

Origin and evolution of this treatment

Although it may seem like something new, the truth is that applying CO2 to the body is a technique that has been carried out in France since the middle of the last century. There some spas have used it to treat fat accumulation problems and also some circulatory problems.

How does carboxytherapy work?

Upon entering the body, CO2 produces hyperdistention of the subcutaneous tissues, releasing substances such as serotonin, bradykinin, histamine, and catecholamine, all of which are involved in the processes of fat destruction.

In many cases, the application of gas is combined with the performance of massages to improve its distribution throughout the body, thus improving blood flow and providing nutrients.

Gas produces internal and external effects. Internally it destroys fat, while externally it improves the quality of the tissue and the appearance of the skin.

Main uses of CO2

CO2 is becoming a revolution in the world of medical-aesthetic treatments and today it is used to fight cellulite, stretch marks, and flaccidity.

It is also applied in localized obesity processes to achieve a reduction in volume. It can be applied in the pre-and post-liposculpture processes.

Not everything is a question of eliminating fat; CO2 can also be applied in the treatment of dark circles and bags under the eyes, for the treatment of varicose veins, and to make the consequences of acne disappear.

For which patients is it not recommended?

This treatment is indicated for those patients who are in good health. In no case should it be applied to people with problems of liver failure, epilepsy, asthma, infections in the area to be treated, circulation problems, respiratory, heart, or kidney failure, as well as other coronary, liver, or kidney problems.

In the case of women, the treatment cannot be applied during pregnancy and lactation; not while they are having their menstrual cycle either.

In people who have cold symptoms, it is not advisable to use carboxytherapy until they have improved.

How is carboxytherapy applied?

Carboxytherapy consists of introducing carbon dioxide subcutaneously into the area to be treated and for this, a very fine needle of 0.3 mm in diameter is used.

The application of gas is carried out through a specialized team that controls the gas volume and pressure at all times.

After the injections, the professional is responsible for applying a massage to the treated area to ensure that the CO2 is well distributed and fulfills its function.

The number of sessions required will depend on the needs of each patient. As for the duration of the sessions, they usually last between 10 and 15 minutes.

As always when someone is going to undergo a medical-aesthetic treatment, it is necessary to make sure that the professionals have real training and experience when applying carboxytherapy.

Another important aspect is the material used. The needle and all equipment must be properly sterilized. The CO2 used must be medicinal and 99% pure.

Does the treatment hurt?

It is normal that while the gas is being injected the patient feels a burning or burning sensation, as well as a sensation of pressure or distension of the skin.

What to expect after treatment

Carboxytherapy is a safe technique if done properly and the patient can immediately return to their daily routine. Of course, it is recommended that in the following days drink plenty of water to remove toxins and help purify the gas.

The injected CO2 is absorbed naturally by the body itself a few days after the intervention. In some cases, bruises may develop in the treated area, but they disappear after a few days. The treated area may appear more voluminous after applying the gas, but this effect does not usually last more than 72 hours.

If gas is applied to the legs or arms, the sensation of pain may last a little longer, similar to the discomfort caused by stiffness. This annoyance subsides within 24 to 48 hours. It is also normal to feel heaviness in the extremities.

Other secondary symptoms that may appear are headaches, redness in the treated area, the appearance of hives in the area where the injection has been applied and even a tingling sensation on the skin.

The professional must explain in detail the effects that can be derived from the use of carboxytherapy. If after going through the procedure you feel any symptoms that your doctor has not referred to, you should contact him as soon as possible.

How long do the effects of carboxytherapy last?

The duration of the effects will depend on the reason why the treatment has been applied and the precautions that the patient takes afterward.

In the case of treatments applied to reduce cellulite or accumulated fat, once the treatment is finished, the attitude of the patient will be decisive in the time that the effects will be in force. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle and do not eat a healthy diet, the fat or cellulite will return.

The treatment can be done once or twice a week and in most cases, it is normal to apply between 16 and 20 sessions. The patient usually begins to notice the effects between the fifth and sixth session, when the tissues begin to be firmer.