Renowned boxing champion Oscar De La Hoya recently shared his experience with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on social media, sparking interest in its potential aesthetic benefits. The 52-year-old athlete highlighted the use of CO2 laser treatments combined with HBOT, claiming it enhances his youthful appearance. While HBOT is primarily known for aiding wound healing and treating specific medical conditions, experts caution against relying solely on it for anti-aging purposes. This article explores the science behind HBOT, its approved applications, and the associated risks.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Exploring Its Uses and Safety

In a world where health and beauty trends are constantly evolving, hyperbaric oxygen therapy has emerged as a popular treatment. This procedure involves entering a pressurized chamber that delivers pure oxygen to tissues, promoting healing. Dr. Caesar A. Anderson, a specialist at UCSD Hyperbaric Medicine & Wound Healing Center, explains that HBOT plays a crucial role in addressing severe diabetic foot ulcers, radiation injuries, and failing skin grafts. Meanwhile, Dr. Suzanne A. Trott emphasizes its effectiveness in reducing inflammation and fostering new blood vessel growth.

The therapy is also beneficial for post-surgical recovery and treating carbon monoxide poisoning. Approved by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine Society (UHMS), HBOT targets approximately 15 conditions, including burns, decompression sickness, and chronic bone infections. However, its purported anti-aging effects remain unendorsed by the UHMS. Despite claims of telomere preservation, experts like Dr. Trott stress that visible aging reversal remains elusive.

For those considering HBOT, safety is paramount. Potential side effects include ear infections, temporary vision changes, and lung collapse in rare cases. Claustrophobic individuals may find the enclosed chamber challenging, while others might experience lightheadedness or headaches. To mitigate risks, patients should undergo treatment only at accredited facilities under experienced healthcare providers certified by the UHMS.

In January 2025, a tragic incident occurred at a Michigan medical facility when an unapproved use of HBOT led to an explosion, resulting in the death of a young boy. This event underscores the importance of adhering to FDA-approved conditions and seeking professional guidance before undergoing such treatments.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy represents a fascinating intersection between medicine and aesthetics. While it offers undeniable benefits for certain conditions, its appeal as an anti-aging solution must be tempered with scientific scrutiny and caution. For individuals like Oscar De La Hoya who embrace it for cosmetic reasons, understanding its limitations and risks is essential.

From a journalistic perspective, this story highlights the growing trend of blending traditional medical treatments with modern beauty aspirations. It serves as a reminder that while innovation in healthcare is exciting, prioritizing safety and evidence-based practices ensures positive outcomes. Readers are encouraged to approach such therapies critically, consulting experts before making decisions that could impact their well-being.