ComboNeedle-free carboxytherapy (Carboxy CO2) in Thessaloniki
The carboxytherapy we do at Essentia is transdermal, with no injections: a gel and a special mask release CO2 onto the skin, which prompts it to boost its own oxygenation and microcirculation. The result is brighter, more even and more elastic skin. It is not injectable carboxy, and not a CO2 laser.
At a glance
- Session length
- about 30 minutes
- Sessions
- 4–6; then maintenance once a month or every 2 months
- Interval
- 1 a week
- What it feels like
- none; a light tingling and warmth from the reaction
- Downtime
- none; redness that fades quickly
- When results show
- glow from the 1st session; texture and elasticity with the programme
- How long it lasts
- with maintenance once a month or every two months
- Performed by
- Essentia aesthetician, with medical oversight
What is it and how does it work?
Transdermal carboxytherapy relies on the Bohr effect: when the skin locally 'senses' more carbon dioxide, red blood cells release their oxygen to the tissues more readily and the small vessels dilate, so the area is better oxygenated and nourished [1]. At Essentia the CO2 is not injected: a gel with active ingredients and an activating mask react with each other on the skin and release CO2 as micro-bubbles, which are absorbed by the epidermis. The improved microcirculation gives immediate glow and, with repeat sessions, more even tone, less dullness and better elasticity [1] [2]. Injectable carboxytherapy has more data for stretch marks and cellulite [2]; for the transdermal form the data are fewer, which is why we use it mainly as a glow and oxygenation complement within our programmes, and not as the only solution for cellulite or stretch marks. We chose it because it is gentle, needle-free, needs no downtime, and pairs with Hydrafacial (Glow Therapy) and LPG (Cellulite Erase).
Treatment areas
- Face and neck: dullness, oiliness, pores, uneven pigmentation, dark circles
- Décolleté
- Hands: thin, dull skin
- Back: oiliness and acne marks
- Stretch marks: as a complement to Dermapen 4
- Abdomen, legs and thighs: cellulite, heaviness and swelling, within Cellulite Erase
Is it right for me?
Carboxytherapy suits dull, tired or dehydrated skin, anyone who wants a more even tone without needles and without downtime, and as a complement to cellulite and stretch-mark programmes. It is suitable for every skin type and every season. It does not replace microneedling for scars and stretch marks, or radiofrequency for laxity.
How does a session go?
- Cleansing of the area
- Application of the gel and, over it, the activating mask
- The reaction starts within minutes: you feel a light tingling and warmth, which we monitor
- After 20–30 minutes we remove the gel and mask
- Moisturiser and sunscreen; you go straight back to your day
When we postpone
- Pregnancy
- Active inflammation, infection or cold sores in the area
- Open wounds or a recent burn
- Known sensitivity to any of the gel's ingredients
- Recent peel or laser on the same area
After the treatment
No downtime. The skin is pink for a few minutes up to an hour and then looks brighter. Make-up is fine the same day, once the redness has settled. Daily sunscreen. The programme works with consistency: one session a week for 4–6 weeks.
What to expect: before and after
Before and after: the glow and more even tone show from the first session, once the redness settles. Over the 4–6 weekly sessions texture, elasticity and the look of dark circles improve, and on the body circulation and the heaviness in the legs. The result is kept up with one session a month or every two months.
Are there side effects?
Reactions are mild and brief: redness, warmth and rarely slight itching in the area for a short while. On very sensitive skin a passing irritation from the gel may occur. If redness or itching lasts more than a day, call us.
What does the cost depend on?
The cost depends on the area and the programme (single session, a 4–6 session programme or within a combination). Add carboxytherapy to your plan and the personalised proposal, with prices, comes to you on WhatsApp.
Signature combos with this device
ComboIdeal if you are concerned about
Frequently asked questions
Are there injections?
No. The CO2 is released from a gel and mask on the skin. It is a different method from injectable carboxytherapy.
When does the result show?
The glow shows from the first session; texture and elasticity improve over the 4–6 weekly sessions.
How is it different from a CO2 laser?
It is a completely different treatment: it does not burn, does not remove skin layers and needs no downtime. CO2 laser is a medical procedure, at the practice.
Does it help cellulite and stretch marks?
As a complement, within Cellulite Erase or alongside Dermapen 4: it improves circulation and the look of the skin. On its own it is not enough for those.
How often?
One session a week for 4–6 weeks, then maintenance once a month or every two months.
How much does it cost?
It depends on the area and programme. Add carboxytherapy to your plan and the proposal with prices comes to you on WhatsApp, with no obligation.
Medically reviewed by Dr Prodromos Papaioannou, plastic surgeon, HESPRAS member · 20 October 2026
References
- Brandi C et al. 2001, Aesthetic Plast Surg, Carbon dioxide therapy in the treatment of localized adiposities: clinical study and histopathological correlations
- Kołodziejczak A, Podgórna K, Rotsztejn H 2018, J Cosmet Dermatol, Is carboxytherapy a good alternative method in the removal of various skin defects?