Look 25 again? Mumbai doctors warn of risks in trending anti-ageing therapy

Last week, a Kanpur couple's fraud of promising people an anti-ageing therapy came to light after a complaint was filed against them by one of the victims who suffered loss of money. Duping many people 35 crore, according to reports citing the investigation, they offered people 'Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy' inside a "Time machine" that could make 65-year-olds feel like 25-year-olds again.

It was also reported that the machine for the therapy that was said to be made in Israel was later found to be made in the city of Uttar Pradesh itself. Anti-ageing therapies are not new and their promise of making people look younger is very alluring and tempting for people who want to look young. However, they may often jump at it without enough information about the therapy.

With the popularity of anti-ageing therapies over the years, mid-day.com spoke to Dr Shareefa Chause, a dermatologist at Shareefa Skin Care Clinic in Mumbai, and Dr. Shraddha Deshpande, an aesthetic, plastic, and reconstructive surgeon, at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai Central, to shed light on Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. They not only highlight the benefits of the therapy but also warn about the side effects and the need to check with a medical professional before going ahead with anti-ageing procedures.

What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy and how is it done?

Chause: HBO2 therapy consists of using pure oxygen at increased pressure (3 atmospheric pressure) leading to increased oxygen levels in blood and tissue. It is done in case of serious wounds, burns, and infections.

Deshpande: Patients typically sit or lie in a sealed chamber, and the increased pressure allows more oxygen to reach damaged tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.

What are the known benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Chause: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy consists of breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised environment. Moreover, this therapy is useful for skin grafts and flaps, and wound healing, it also helps for anti-ageing, as it helps in angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels) and even gangrene.

Deshpande: HBOT is known to accelerate wound healing, treat carbon monoxide poisoning, and help manage conditions like diabetic foot ulcers, decompression sickness, and certain infections. The therapy also promotes tissue regeneration by increasing oxygen delivery to cells, aiding recovery from injuries and surgeries.

What are the side effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Chause: The side effects of this therapy involve trauma to the middle ear, low blood sugar, sinus problems, chest pain (rarely), and claustrophobia in some patients. It is imperative to take the therapy under a certified expert.

Deshpande: Common side effects include ear discomfort, sinus pain, or temporary vision changes due to pressure variations. In rare cases, oxygen toxicity, lung collapse (pneumothorax), or seizures may occur if the therapy is misused or conducted inappropriately.

Is it safe to do this kind of oxygen therapy? Are there other kinds?

Chause: It is safe if a medical professional person is doing this procedure under their guidance and in a hospital setup. One can surely opt for it on the recommendation of the doctor.

Deshpande: HBOT is generally safe when administered by trained professionals. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. Other oxygen therapies include supplemental oxygen therapy for respiratory conditions. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate therapy.

What should people keep in mind while opting for this therapy?

Chause: Before starting this therapy, a detailed history should be given to the doctor, especially if they are having any kind of ear or lung problems. High-risk patients having respiratory issues should avoid this therapy.

Deshpande: Before opting for HBOT, ensure it's administered in a certified facility under medical supervision. Discuss your medical history with your doctor, particularly lung, ear, or sinus issues. Avoid self-administered treatments and understand the possible risks and benefits.

Can people look for certain certifications from the people doing it?

Chause: Yes, as I mentioned, earlier a medical professional person will do such kind of procedure under their guidance, cause if anything happens then they know what exactly they have to do.

Deshpande: Yes, ensure the facility is accredited by relevant health authorities, such as the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS). Medical personnel should be certified in hyperbaric medicine and have proper training to administer the therapy safely.

What are the different anti-ageing therapies or treatments available today?

Chause: There are many therapies and treatments available for antiaging. Starting from basic supplements to creams, lasers, and procedures like Botox and fillers. One has to choose the right kind of treatment with the help of an expert and follow the guidelines for optimum results.

Deshpande: Common anti-aging treatments include Botox, dermal fillers, laser therapies, chemical peels, and microneedling. Non-invasive options like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and radiofrequency therapy are also popular. Additionally, supplements, skincare products, and lifestyle changes contribute to anti-aging efforts.

What is the purpose of these anti-ageing therapies and do they even work?

Chause: The purpose of anti-ageing therapy is to delay the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Furthermore, yes it does help but you have to add lifestyle modifications for better results such as exercising eating a well-balanced diet and staying stress-free by doing yoga and meditation.

Deshpande: Anti-aging therapies aim to reduce the visible signs of aging, like wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Many treatments, such as Botox or fillers, provide temporary results, while others promote long-term skin health. Effectiveness varies depending on the therapy and individual factors.

Who shouldn't be opting for anti-ageing therapies?

Chause: Anybody can opt for anti-ageing treatment because there are many treatment options available, if one is not suitable for you then you can go for another. Let your doctor decide what works best for you the best. The therapy should strictly be done under skilled experts. Everyone should be empowered to make informed choices for successful outcomes.

Deshpande: Individuals with certain health conditions, skin allergies, or infections should avoid anti-aging treatments. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult a doctor before undergoing such therapies. Always consult with a medical professional to assess personal suitability.

With a lot of therapies going viral online, is it safe to believe them?

Chause: No, it is not safe to believe the therapies that are going viral online. While one may suit some people, it will not suit others. It is because everybody has different skin types, so they have to select the product or procedure according to their skin concern by consulting their doctor. Don't just follow anyone or any trend blindly.

Deshpande: Not all viral therapies are backed by scientific evidence. Always verify treatments with credible medical professionals before trying them. Avoid DIY or non-professional procedures as they can be unsafe, ineffective, or cause harmful side effects.

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