Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is becoming recognized as a promising treatment for various skin issues. By providing the body with high levels of oxygen, HBOT can accelerate healing, boost collagen production, rejuvenate skin, help wounds heal more quickly, and reduce inflammation. If you’ve ever been in a hyperbaric chamber, you might find it a bit cold and confined—but the results could make it worthwhile.
Originally developed over a century ago for treating scuba divers with decompression sickness, HBOT received FDA approval in the 1960s for addressing decompression sickness and gas gangrene. By the 1990s, it started being used for wound treatment, proving effective for diabetic ulcers and pressure sores.
The treatment involves spending time in a chamber filled with 100% pure oxygen under pressure. This setup increases oxygen delivery to tissues, enhancing the healing process. While HBOT is often used for medical issues like non-healing wounds, brain injuries, decompression sickness, and carbon monoxide poisoning, it might also benefit skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Despite usually not being covered by insurance and costing between $200 and $600 per session, HBOT is growing in popularity as an alternative treatment for various skin conditions.
The therapy is sometimes dubbed the “fountain of youth” because it can increase collagen production. Collagen, essential for maintaining firm and youthful skin, diminishes with age, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Clinical research indicates that HBOT may triple collagen production, thus reducing wrinkles and enhancing skin health.
Oxygen and blood flow carry nutrients vital for vibrant skin. The hyperbaric chamber’s high oxygen concentration can improve blood circulation and nourish skin cells, leading to a radiant complexion. Blood plasma is rich in growth factors, which HBOT can increase, thus improving skin texture and tone.
Signs of aging like age spots, fine lines, and wrinkles may be diminished by the enhanced blood flow and oxygen provided by HBOT. Regular treatments can reduce the appearance of wrinkles by up to 70%.
HBOT aids wound healing by stimulating new blood vessel and skin cell growth, speeding up recovery, and lowering infection risk. It can also ensure better skin graft acceptance.
The therapy’s anti-inflammatory properties help with redness, swelling, and pain associated with conditions like eczema and psoriasis by reducing inflammatory cytokines at the cellular level.
HBOT can alleviate symptoms of conditions such as acne, rosacea, and eczema, and its oxidative stress reduction benefits improve skin texture and give it a youthful glow. The treatment can also minimize pore size, reducing the likelihood of clogged pores and breakouts.
The therapy temporarily tightens saggy skin, a common aging sign, by increasing collagen and elastin, giving the skin a firmer look.
For acne, HBOT can reduce inflammation, help new skin cells grow, and eliminate acne-causing bacteria. Although not a cure, it can improve skin appearance and lessen breakouts.
It can also minimize scar appearance by encouraging fresh tissue growth and reduce keloids, thus preventing scars.
HBOT may improve rosacea’s symptoms for some, thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects, particularly when combined with other treatments. It’s important to consult a dermatologist to see if HBOT suits you.
As we age, our ability to fight infections weakens, which can increase psoriasis risk. HBOT can boost the body’s defensive capabilities against infections and alleviate psoriasis symptoms, typically alongside other treatments like light therapy or medication.
Though most skin care products offer only temporary eczema relief, HBOT can offer long-term benefits. Combined with other treatments, it reduces reliance on topical medications.
Environmental damage to the skin can be addressed through HBOT, which offers some protection from pollution and UV radiation.
Generally, healthy individuals can safely undergo HBOT, but those with chronic health conditions should seek medical advice first. The therapy can treat many conditions linked to tissue damage or poor circulation, and a doctor can advise if it’s suitable for you.
HBOT sessions usually last one to two hours, spent in a chamber pressurized with 100% oxygen, enhancing oxygen absorption in tissues. Common side effects are mild and typically resolve on their own. Staying well-hydrated and avoiding smoking or alcohol pre- and post-session is recommended.
Discuss with your doctor before starting HBOT, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or having other medical conditions. HBOT is a safe and effective option for various skin issues, so consulting with your doctor can help determine if it’s a beneficial treatment for you.
