Scars are a part of life; they’re little reminders from the bumps and bruises we pick up while we’re out living, exploring, and enjoying the world. However, when scars are large and prominent, they can feel like an unwanted spotlight every time you catch your reflection. I know the feeling personally; after undergoing laparoscopic surgery in 2021 to remove a fibroid, I was left with five visible scars on my abdomen.

For many of us, surgical scars aren’t just skin deep. They can symbolize a period of struggle or healing, a chapter that’s behind us but still etched into our skin. While there’s nothing wrong with having scars, it’s also okay to want to minimize them and feel more confident in your skin. There are so many scar solutions on the market from gels to creams to expensive laser treatments, but I’ve found the best option to be carboxytherapy. Carboxytherapy is a straight-forward but powerful treatment that’s become my favorite way to smooth out scars and help my skin re-gain its original pigmentation after surgery. I went to Precision Aesthetics in New York City to get this treatment.

Curious about this procedure? Let me explain what it is, how it works, and why it’s an under the radar go-to for scar revision and skin rejuvenation.

What Is Carboxytherapy?

Carboxytherapy is a clever, minimally invasive treatment that injects tiny amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂) just beneath the skin. The concept originated in France, first used to treat circulation issues, and has since evolved into a trusted skin-repair solution. When CO₂ is introduced into the tissue, your body responds by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the area, triggering collagen production and natural healing. Think of it as sending your skin a wake-up call to regenerate and rebuild.

Using a specialized carboxytherapy machine, practitioners control the exact amount and pressure of the gas, ensuring a safe and precise experience. It’s also incredibly versatile, working on everything from the face to the thighs, anywhere you’re hoping to improve texture, tone, or the appearance of scars and stretch marks.

What Does Carboxytherapy Do?

This treatment isn’t just for scars, it’s a multitasker that tackles a variety of skin concerns. Here’s a list of what it can help with:

1. Scar and Stretch Mark Reduction
Whether your scars are from acne, surgery, or pregnancy, carboxytherapy helps by improving circulation and stimulating collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for smooth, firm skin. Over time, scars fade and skin looks more even.

2. Better Texture, Brighter Tone
Dull or uneven skin? Carboxytherapy encourages cell turnover and boosts microcirculation, which can leave your skin looking more refreshed, luminous, and balanced.

3. Under-Eye Revive
Tired of dark circles and puffiness? This treatment can improve blood flow under the eyes, reduce fluid retention, and leave you looking noticeably more rested.

4. Cellulite Softening
When used on areas like the thighs or buttocks, carboxytherapy helps break down fat deposits and tighten the skin, making it a solid option for treating mild cellulite.

5. Hair Growth Support
Interestingly, it’s also used to support hair regrowth by stimulating dormant follicles. It’s subtle, but promising, especially for early-stage hair thinning.

Where to Get the Treatment in NYC?

Carboxytherapy isn’t as easy to find in the United States as it is in Europe or South America. New York City-based Dr. Lisa A. Zdinak is a true pioneer in the field and has been refining this rare technique since 2005. She developed signature protocols for face and body concerns and helms carboxytherapy.com, the go-to U.S. resource for this transformative treatment.

Carboxytherapy is a safe, effective treatment for all skin tones tackling everything from stretch marks and cellulite to laxity and wrinkles. You can book an in-person appointment at Precision Aesthetics on the Upper West Side in Manhattan, call for a consultation here.

Does It Hurt?

I would give it a 5/10 on the pain scale; it’s not excruciating but can be uncomfortable. When you arrive a numbing cream is applied to your skin for around 30 minutes. Then the practioner comes in to inject the desired areas with carbon dioxide. You feel a warm, tingling sensation (sometimes almost sizzling) and a bit of pressure as the gas is delivered but it’s quick, and any discomfort usually fades in minutes.

Each session typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes depending on the treatment area, and there’s no real downtime. You can go in for an appointment and head right back to your day. Some redness or slight swelling is normal afterward, but it usually subsides within a few hours.

Carboxytherapy Before and After: What to Expect

With consistent sessions, people often see noticeable changes in their scars and stretch marks look softer and lighter, and skin feels smoother to the touch. When I first started my scars were quite wide and also bumpy, noticeably different from the rest of my skin. Also, the largest one of my scars had become concave and sunken which looked really bad. Carboxytherapy helped soften the scars, improve the texture, and helped re-pigment my skin. The scars aren’t gone but they don’t stand out as much and I expect this to further improve over time.

For under-eye treatments, the results can be especially dramatic. Puffiness diminishes, dark circles lift, and the whole area looks fresher. Since the treatment boosts collagen production, results actually improve over time, meaning you’re not just getting a quick fix, but longer-lasting skin resilience.

Your practitioner should be able to walk you through a personalized treatment plan and show you before and after photos so you know exactly what to expect based on your skin type and goals. Here you can see mine:

Why More People Are Turning to Carboxytherapy

Unlike more invasive procedures, carboxytherapy doesn’t involve any cutting, lasers, or lengthy recovery periods. It’s a skin-forward, science-backed treatment that works with your body rather than against it. Plus, the use of a carboxytherapy machine allows for consistent, targeted application, which helps maximize results without the risk.

If you’re considering it, start by researching reputable clinics that offer the treatment and have experienced providers. A good practitioner will walk you through the process, answer your questions, and make sure the treatment is tailored to your needs.

Carboxytherapy is more than just a beauty trend, it’s a proven, low-impact way to renew your skin from the inside out. Whether you’re hoping to fade old scars, even out your complexion, or refresh tired eyes, this treatment offers a smart, safe, and effective option for skin regeneration.