What is an Oxygen Facial?
An oxygen facial is a procedure typically performed by an aesthetician in a spa. It is considered a “nonmedical” procedure because nothing is injected into the body and no chemicals are used.
How It Reportedly Works
The body needs oxygen to thrive, which is why we breathe. The theory behind oxygen facials is that skin cells fully oxygenated via an oxygen facial will look bright and healthy. However, this theory isn’t scientifically backed.
The Procedure
During an oxygen facial, an aesthetician will first cleanse and exfoliate your face. The exact process may vary by spa, but typically, a wand is used to deliver a stream of high-pressurized oxygen to the skin’s surface. Serums, usually containing hyaluronic acid known for plumping the skin, are applied to the face with the wand or after the oxygen portion of the facial
Length of Treatment
The length of oxygen facials varies depending on the spa but typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour. For example, Bliss Spa offers a “Triple Oxygen Facial” that lasts 75 minutes.
Recovery Time
There’s no downtime or healing required after an oxygen facial, and you can even apply makeup directly afterward if you choose.
Benefits of an Oxygen Facial
Research on the efficacy of oxygen facials is mixed. Anecdotally, many people report that their skin looks healthy and bright after the procedure. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited.
Purported Benefits:
- Added Radiance: It’s believed that oxygen facials allow the pores to absorb hyaluronic acid and other ingredients from serums more effectively.
- Hydrated Skin: The oxygen helps infuse the serums into the skin, making it look and feel hydrated.
- More Even Skin Tone: Oxygen facials may deliver vitamins or botanical ingredients to the skin, resulting in bright, glowing skin.
- Reduction in Fine Lines: Improved blood circulation to the face can make the skin look bright and plump, potentially reducing fine lines.
Calming of Acne: Oxygen may accelerate wound healing and kill certain bacteria, potentially calming acne and killing acne-causing bacteria.
Frequency of Treatment
Many dermatologists recommend getting facials once a month. However, oxygen facials aren’t as exfoliating as other types. Consult with a dermatologist or aesthetician for recommendations.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While many people swear by oxygen facials, some experts are skeptical. Dr. Christopher B. Zachary from the University of California, Irvine, has dismissed the benefits of high-pressure oxygen for the skin.
Potential Side Effects:
- Temporary Skin Redness: Those with sensitive skin might experience redness, which should fade within a few hours.
- Puffiness or Facial Swelling: Intense blasts of oxygen can cause inflammation, making the skin look plumped or swollen.
Allergic Reactions: If you’re allergic to any skincare ingredients, inform your aesthetician and discontinue use if you experience itching, swelling, pain, or prolonged redness.
Oxygen Facials Compared with Other Facial Treatments
Other treatments offering similar results to oxygen facials include:
HydraFacial: A three-step treatment that removes impurities from pores through a vacuum-like process, starting with a cleanse and peel, then extraction and hydration, and finally fuse and protect.
Microdermabrasion: An exfoliating treatment that can improve the appearance of sun damage, wrinkles, fine lines, acne scarring, and more.
Key Takeaways
Anecdotally, oxygen facials may help reduce fine lines, even out texture, add radiance, and maintain bright, youthful-looking skin. However, there isn’t conclusive research to support these claims, and some dermatologists argue the procedure may cause unnecessary inflammation, redness, or general puffiness. Always ensure you find a reputable spa for any procedure. While many OTC products contain oxygen, the main benefit may come from the moisturizing serums, regardless of the oxygen content.