Give your skin an oxygen boost

Joseph Priestley, one of the first discoverers of oxygen, once said, ‘Who can tell but that, in time, this pure air may become a fashionable article in luxury’. As if on cue, several skincare centres offer oxygen-based therapies that promise flawless skin.

Oxy Boost

Oxygen is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas. It exists in the upper layer of the atmosphere in the form of ozone and has been used in treating medical conditions. Another aspect of this life-giving gas is that it has spurred the development of minimally invasive dermatological procedures that are progressing to rejuvenate ageing faces. Dr Shifa Yadav, Consultant-Dermatology, Artemis Hospitals says, “Oxygen can be given for skin rejuvenation in two forms, hydra/oxygen machine based facials where oxygen is given topically through a machine and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) where oxygen is inhaled orally in a pressurised chamber. Oxygen increases collagen production by inhibiting MMP (Matrix Metalloproteinases) which degrades collagen, increases the cell turnover rate, and reduces the inflammation in the skin by inhibiting the inflammatory mediators, mainly Neutrophils. Oxygen supports the immune system, activates the defence system against toxic substances and sustains the growth of new cells.”

Advantage Oxygen

The benefits of oxygen in face rejuvenation are many. This includes reducing fine lines and wrinkles, giving an even skin tone, reducing pore size, giving hydrated, soft, clear skin, reducing acne and acne marks as well as fighting against photo ageing. Hydra facials usually take 45-60 minutes to get complete and are done using the patent hydra facial equipment, the MD hydra facial machine which delivers oxygen through a machine. HBOT (Hyperbaric oxygen therapy) involves breathing pure oxygen in a portable hyperbaric chamber. Ayesha Sabah, Clinical Cosmetologist & Medical Aesthetic Director and Co-Founder & CEO, of Auguste Skin says, “Oxygen therapy for facial skin, also known as an oxygen facial, is a non-invasive treatment designed to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin. It involves applying pressurized oxygen along with serums. Oxygen therapy is distinguished by its unique ability to enhance transdermal delivery of active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants using pressurised oxygen. This treatment is particularly sought after due to its clinically significant benefits.”

Do it Right

Oxygen therapy commonly involves the utilisation of a Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber, where individuals inhale pure oxygen within a pressurised setting. The duration of sessions typically ranges from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific treatment regimen. The heightened pressure enables the lungs to absorb more oxygen than they would in normal circumstances, which is then carried by the blood to the tissues requiring healing. This method is utilized to address a variety of conditions, from chronic wounds to promoting overall well-being and rejuvenation. Dr Garima Gaur, Physical Rehabilitation Specialist, at The Wellness Co., says, “Prior to commencing oxygen therapy, it is crucial to seek advice from a healthcare professional to ascertain its suitability for your individual needs. While the therapy is generally safe for most individuals, those with specific conditions like untreated pneumothorax or certain ear infections should refrain from undergoing it. It is also recommended to abstain from alcohol and tobacco consumption before sessions, as these substances can impact blood circulation and the efficacy of the therapy. Adequate hydration before and after sessions is also advised to facilitate the body's healing mechanisms.”

Skin Sense

The pressurised oxygen facilitates deeper penetration of serums into the epidermis, ensuring that active ingredients reach deeper skin layers more effectively than traditional topical applications. “Oxygen is crucial for cellular respiration and metabolism, and by delivering concentrated oxygen directly to the skin, the therapy enhances cellular activity, promoting faster cell turnover and skin regeneration. This accelerates the healing process and improves overall skin vitality. Unlike other treatments that might require invasive procedures to stimulate collagen production, oxygen therapy achieves this through a non-invasive approach. The increased oxygen levels and nutrient infusion stimulate fibroblast activity, enhancing collagen synthesis which is vital for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. Patients often experience immediate improvements in skin texture, hydration, and radiance post-treatment, offering quick and effective solutions for skin rejuvenation,” explains Sabah. Staying informed and collaborating with experts are essential steps to fully capitalise on the diverse benefits offered by this versatile therapy.

Prior to commencing oxygen therapy, it is crucial to seek advice from a healthcare professional to ascertain its suitability for your individual needs. While the therapy is generally safe for most individuals, those with specific conditions like untreated pneumothorax or certain ear infections should refrain from undergoing it. It is also recommended to abstain from alcohol and tobacco consumption before sessions. — Dr garima gaur, physical rehabilitation specialist

Another aspect of this life-giving gas is that it has spurred the development of minimally invasive dermatological procedures that are progressing to rejuvenate ageing faces.