While thousands of people pursue Juvederm and BOTOX injections to plump up wrinkles and eliminate fine lines, others are trying a different type of injectable: the C02 injection.  

Carbon dioxide injections entered the market a few years ago with the emergence of treatments such as the Brazilian Rio-Blush rejuvenation system, and other procedures that involve injecting the skin with C02 gas. They’re a fresh approach to managing aging skin, and researchers indicate that C02 gas can help augment skin tissue and fill out hollowed areas of the face. The reaction of CO2 on skin tissues throughout the body may also help with fat loss.  

How C02 Helps Rejuvenate the Skin  

C02 injections work by penetrating the tissues right under the skin’s top layer. A fine needle is inserted into the skin and gas is diffused into the surrounding tissues. This causes all of the blood vessels in the tissues to swell, and also increases oxygen supply to the treatment area. After a short period of time, this increased activity can actually stimulate collagen production – the essential fibers that keep skin looking smooth and taut – and the process may help improve cell turnover overall. As the skin ages and matures, the speed of collagen and healthy skin cell production slows down dramatically. 

Facial rejuvenation treatments are designed to increase the rate of cell and collagen production, which can slowly help increase the rate of skin cell regeneration and build up strong and healthy tissues. Giving this process a boost with C02 gas, heat therapy through skin tightening treatments, or applying laser energy to the face can help to stimulate collagen production overall.  

How the Brazilian Rio-Blush Facial Rejuvenation System Works  

The Brazilian Rio-Blush Facial Rejuvenation system was released in the U.K. in late 2007 after successful trials and testing in the United States and ongoing success in South America. According to Dr. Yan Trokel of The Yan Center for Corrective and Cosmetic Surgery, the RioBlush system delivers a series of small injections of carbon dioxide under the skin to enhance the body’s natural skin turnover and healing processes. Since the process helps increase circulation and reconditions the skin’s surface, the RioBlush system enhances blood flow to the skin cells and makes it easier for nutrients to reach the skin cells for cell repair and reconstruction.  

The RioBlush system  may help to:  

• Tighten and tone the skin
• Reduce stretch marks
• Eliminate puffy eyes
• Reduce the appearance of dark circles
• Improve the texture of delicate skin tissues
• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• Improve the contours of the face and neck area
• Improve the texture of the eyelids  

(Source:Dr. Yan Trokel)  

The Brazilian Rio Blush can be used with other antiaging treatments such as a facelift, dermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing treatments, or even a chemical peel.  

If you’re looking for a professional facial rejuvenation procedure, contact a cosmetic surgeon in your area for a comprehensive skincare consultation, or learn more about facial rejuvenation treatments in our information guide.