Unlocking the Beauty Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
I’m a very strong proponent of the use of hyperbaric oxygen chambers. I believe this therapeutic modality might just be the closest thing we have to turning back the clock. Long favored by professional athletes, billionaire biohackers with too much time on their hands, and celebrities who are often under the scrutiny of the public eye, HBOT (hyperbaric oxygen therapy) is fairly simple as a treatment. You lie down in a capsule not unlike a tanning bed, where concentrated doses of oxygen are absorbed by your body. HBOT is superb for cellular regeneration, muscle repair, enhanced cognitive function/brain health, increased energy, and immune support.
Now, what do I personally love about it? Let’s get real—the vanity factor, of course, because hyperbaric oxygen therapy benefits your skin and hair. The potent oxygen your body receives enhances circulation, promoting tissue repair and revitalization, resulting in a beautiful glow for your complexion. This oxygen can provide support for healthy hair follicle growth and vitality. By infusing your complexion and hair with oxygen while boosting collagen production, HBOT improves elasticity for your skin, delivering a youthful appearance that more than rivals what any topical cream can pull off. Each session runs anywhere from thirty minutes to one hour.
So, let’s get practical. How often should you indulge in HBOT? According to Dr. Mayur Patel, a notable pharmacist turned HBOT advocate and the president of OxyHealth (a leading provider of hyperbarics), it all depends on your goals. For general wellness, most providers recommend two to three sessions per week. If skin rejuvenation is your focus, aim for three sessions weekly. For injuries or medical conditions, daily sessions may be necessary for several weeks. For pre- and post-care practices, Patel suggests staying hydrated, wearing comfortable clothing, and avoiding perfume and lotion before your session. “During your session, focus on deep, steady breaths to enhance oxygen absorption, and afterward, hydrate again, engage in light movement, and enjoy a nutritious snack to aid your recovery,” he says.
As for where to experience this beneficial oxygen therapy, there are several reputable wellness centers around Los Angeles and New York City (if you live outside these self-centered zones, well, Google is your friend). I’ve enjoyed using Remedy Place in L.A.—it's clean, cutting-edge, the chambers are top-notch, and it's never crowded, so you don’t have to talk to anyone.
As wonderful as HBOT is, no one said it was cheap. Sessions typically cost anywhere from $100 to $600. That said, my recommendation is that, if you fall in love with the experience and want to incorporate it into your lifestyle, consider renting a chamber or renting to own. OxyHealth offers a range of options, from portable soft-shell to robust hard-shell models, with prices between $9,000 and $50,000. Remedy Place also sells chambers starting around $50,000.
A hyperbaric oxygen chamber.
Dr. Patel emphasizes that if you go this route, it is important to choose a chamber with FDA 510(k) clearance for safety. While soft-shell models are suitable for home use, hard-shell chambers are generally reserved for clinical settings. He also notes, “When comparing chambers, think about quality and longevity—high-quality models can last 10 to 15 years, making them a worthwhile investment in your health and beauty.”
If you take your health seriously, you’ll understand that hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a potent tool for rejuvenation as well as beauty. Whether you’re tackling specific health issues or simply seeking to combat the effects of aging, I believe this therapy can significantly enhance your body’s natural repair abilities. And remember, always consult a qualified healthcare provider to tailor the experience to your needs.