What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted an evidence-based review of 17 human studies with 766 participants to assess HBOT's effectiveness and safety in cosmetic and aesthetic applications, including skin rejuvenation and surgical preparation.
What They Found
HBOT reduced hair shedding after follicular unit extraction transplant (27.6% vs. 69.1% shedding), though final hair density was similar between groups. HBOT increased elastic fiber length (p<0.0001, effect size 2.71) and collagen density (p=0.0001, effect size 1.10), and reduced inflammatory markers. When used before abdominoplasty, complications dropped from 32.6% to 8.4% (p<0.001). All 17 studies were rated high risk of bias.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadians interested in HBOT for skin health, anti-aging, or surgical preparation, the evidence is promising but not conclusive. The pre-surgical complication reduction finding is the strongest signal, but cosmetic uses are not covered by provincial health plans and supporting evidence remains weak overall.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified. Cosmetic HBOT use is not an OHIP-covered indication.
Study Limitations
All 17 included studies were rated high risk of bias, meaning results could be unreliable, and randomized trials with longer follow-up are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.