Boxer credits hyperbaric oxygen therapy for keeping him young — but is it safe?

Boxing champion Oscar De La Hoya, 52, has recently caused a stir by sharing a beauty secret that has raised some eyebrows. In a post on Instagram, he revealed that he undergoes hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) along with laser treatments to maintain his youthful appearance. “These lasers only making me younger and cuter … sorry fellas,” he captioned a video of himself receiving the treatments. “CO2 laser + hyperbaric chamber=sexy papichulo by next week,” he added.

HBOT involves pumping 100% oxygen into the tissues to aid in healing. During a session, the patient lies in a tube-shaped chamber with increased air pressure for one to two hours. While HBOT is not a primary treatment for illnesses, it can be used as a supplement for various therapies, according to experts.

Dr. Caesar A. Anderson, medical director at UCSD Hyperbaric Medicine & Wound Healing Center, explained that HBOT has gained momentum in the medical community for treating conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers, failing skin grafts, and tissue damaged by radiation. The therapy can reduce inflammation, promote new blood vessel growth, and improve wound healing.

Dr. Suzanne A. Trott, a plastic and general surgeon, recommends HBOT for her aesthetic and reconstructive patients to enhance recovery after surgery. The treatment can also be beneficial for patients with radiation-induced tissue damage, as it primes the tissues with oxygen to improve surgical outcomes.

While HBOT has been shown to have anti-aging effects by decreasing cell death and maintaining telomere length, experts caution that it is not a cure-all for aging. The treatment has not been endorsed by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine Society for reversing or slowing down the aging process.

Despite its potential benefits, HBOT does come with some risks. The treatment can cause middle ear infections, vision changes, and lung collapse in rare cases. Patients may also experience discomfort due to the increased air pressure in the chamber. It is important to receive HBOT from an accredited facility with experienced healthcare providers to minimize these risks.

In conclusion, while HBOT may have some aesthetic benefits and aid in wound healing, it is essential to approach the treatment with caution. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before undergoing any new therapy to ensure safety and efficacy.