Combating Stubborn Cellulite with Carboxytherapy

by Dr. Natnicha Loichuen

Carboxytherapy refers to the cutaneous and subcutaneous administration of carbon dioxide gas [CO2] for therapeutic purposes. Carboxytherapy originated at the Royal Spas of France in 1932 with the treatment of patients afflicted by peripheral arterial occlusive disease.

In South America and Europe, carbon dioxide therapy has been applied to the treatment of stretch marks, cellulite, and hypertrophic scars with impressive results. Studies have demonstrated that carboxytherapy improves skin elasticity, circulation, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and encourages collagen repair and destroys localized fatty deposits.

Carbon dioxide is a natural constituent of our very being. We breathe in oxygen, and we exhale carbon dioxide. Plants take up the carbon dioxide and, in turn, give us the oxygen that we need. There are no known risks associated with carboxytherapy. Carbon dioxide injection has been safely used for years to facilitate endoscopic surgeries of the abdomen.

How does carboxy therapy work in general?

Carboxytherapy takes advantage of a physiological principle known as oxygen off-loading.

Carbon dioxide is naturally present in our bodies at all times and it is essential to the life processes of both animals and plants. With every breath, we inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide. With each inhalation we breathe in oxygen to our lungs. This oxygen is picked up by the red blood cells in the tiny blood vessels of the lungs. When the red blood cells encounter an area that has a high level of carbon dioxide, the waste product of cellular metabolism, the red blood cells become distorted, the oxygen is released to the needy tissues and the carbon dioxide is picked up by the now empty red blood cells The carbon dioxide is carried back to the lungs, we exhale to get rid of the carbon dioxide, we inhale more oxygen, and the entire process begins again.

So how does carboxytherapy work?

Stretch marks, cellulite, and scars are believed to be caused, at least in part, by poor blood-flow to the region. By injecting a small amount of carbon dioxide gas into the area, we are "tricking" the body into increasing the oxygen flow to the area by compelling the red blood cells to pick up all of the excess CO2 that we injected so that it can be carried back to the lungs for elimination from the body with the next exhalation.

What are some clinical uses for carboxy therapy?

• to increase oxygen flow at site

• stretch-marks

• cellulite reduction

• to improve cellular metabolism

• non-surgical fat sculpting on the face and the body

What does carboxytherapy feel like?

Carboxytherapy doesn't hurt; the sensation is slightly different depending upon what is actually being treated. The treatment of cellulite and fatty deposits on the arms, abdomen, and legs has a unique sensation of its own. This is because a larger amount of the gas is injected directly into the offending fat deposits and allowed to expand. While the gas is expanding, you may feel some pressure in the area being treated that feels similar to when the arm is squeezed by a blood pressure cuff. The areas will feel warm and tingly for up to 24 hours after treatment as circulation to the area is improved.

Combat stubborn cellulite for only 4,999 baht (regular price 30,000 baht). Nicha Clinic offers you the CARBOXY BUFFET which gives you an unlimited number of sessions per area within 1 month. Call or visit us for details. Call 038-411190 or visit Nicha Clinic at Pattaya 2nd Road (Opposite View Talay Beach Condo and Central Festival Pattaya) for more information and to book a FREE consultation.