Carboxytherapy in dermatology: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Aesthetic Medicine
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Carboxytherapy involves administering carbon dioxide to potentially improve oxygenation, tissue perfusion, and disrupt adipose cells.
• It has been explored for various aesthetic and pathological conditions for many years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review studies on carboxytherapy's benefits in dermatological conditions.
• To objectively evaluate the scientific evidence supporting carboxytherapy's efficacy.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science.
• Studies investigating carboxytherapy for any dermatological condition were included.

Main Results:

• Twenty-seven studies with over 700 participants were reviewed, primarily clinical trials.
• Carboxytherapy demonstrated significant improvements in facial wrinkles, skin laxity, scars, cellulite, alopecia, and diabetic wounds.
• Adverse events were generally mild and transient, including erythema, pain, and ecchymoses.

Conclusions:

• Carboxytherapy offers favorable results for many dermatological applications.
• Further randomized controlled trials are necessary to address limitations in sample size, outcome measures, and long-term fat-reducing effects.