What can JUVGEN do? How much can wrinkles and acne scars change with CO2 gas injection?

JUVGEN is a treatment in which medical-grade carbon dioxide (CO2) gas and hyaluronic acid are injected alternately, bit by bit, into the skin to promote blood circulation and collagen remodeling.[1]CO2 gas injection (carboxytherapy) has been used for skin rejuvenation and depressed acne scars.[2]However, research specifically examining the JUVGEN combination itself is not available, and what can be expected is a gradual shallow­ing of deep wrinkles and depressions — not a treatment that fills them in all at once.

What happens to the skin when CO2 gas is injected?

Where CO2 gas is injected, blood vessels are thought to dilate, increasing oxygen delivery to tissues.[1][3]In addition, collagen remodeling within the skin is explained to support skin rejuvenation.[1].

A review compiling research on CO2 gas injection found 27 studies (covering over 700 cases combined), most of which were clinical trials.[4]Indications were wide-ranging: facial wrinkles, under-eye dark circles, skin laxity, scars, stretch marks, and hair loss.[4].

JUVGEN alternately injects hyaluronic acid into these areas. A review of 13 studies showed that hyaluronic acid injections improved skin hydration, firmness, texture, and elasticity.[5].

How effective is it for depressed acne scars?

There are reports of improvement in depressed acne scars. In a study comparing CO2 gas injection and fine-needle treatment (such as microneedling) on the left and right sides of the face in 32 subjects, each performed 6 times, acne scars of all shapes became less noticeable on both sides.[6].

There are also reports that when CO2 gas is used to release adhesions under the skin and combined with laser, improvement was greater than with laser alone.[6]For deep depressions, combining with other treatments is the standard approach.

However, treatment of depressed scars lacks sufficient evidence across all methods. A review evaluating 41 studies found that only 7% were rated as high-quality evidence, and 75% were very low quality.[7].

What are the limits of effectiveness for deep wrinkles and nasolabial folds?

It is realistic to think of wrinkles becoming gradually shallower. Although CO2 gas injection is an option for skin rejuvenation, it has been noted that results may not meet expectations.[2].

Most studies lack standardized subjects and number of sessions, making comparison difficult.[3]Nasolabial folds, with their deep shadowed creases, involve not only skin thickness but also cheek volume and sagging. In such cases, consideration is given relative to fillers that supplement contour with hyaluronic acid or lift procedures.

What is the typical pain and downtime?

Most common are small bruises at the needle insertion sites, which fade in a few days with no scarring, according to reports.[6]A tight or full feeling and pain may occur when the gas is injected.

Notable side effects to watch for include gas remaining under the skin for a prolonged period (subcutaneous emphysema) and unintended fat reduction.[2]If the injected area remains swollen or feels hard like a nodule, consult early.

Who is a good candidate, and who is not? What to confirm during consultation.

Good candidates are those who wish to gradually refine depressed acne scars or mild wrinkles over time. Poor candidates are those who want a crease filled in all at once or whose primary concern is sagging.

During consultation, the shape and depth of depressions, the degree of sagging and volume loss, and whether combination with other treatments is needed are confirmed. How many sessions to expect and when to assess results should also be discussed with your doctor after direct examination of your skin to ensure certainty.