What Is an Oxygen Facial and Can It Benefit Your Skin?

There’s a growing beauty trend called Intraceuticals treatments, or oxygen facials, favored by celebrities like Madonna and Ashley Graham.

Oxygen facials are promoted to:

• diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles
• boost circulation in the skin
• support collagen formation for a more youthful appearance

But do these treatments really deliver? This piece discusses the claimed advantages and possible side effects of oxygen facials, typical pricing, and how they measure up to at-home oxygen kits and alternative dermatologist procedures.

What exactly is an oxygen facial?

An oxygen facial is usually provided by an aesthetician at a spa. It’s classified as a “nonmedical” treatment because it doesn’t involve injections or harsh chemicals.

How it’s said to work

The body requires oxygen to function, which is why we breathe. The idea behind oxygen facials — though not strongly supported by scientific evidence — is that delivering oxygen directly to skin cells will make them appear healthier and more radiant.

The process

At the start of the session, an aesthetician will cleanse and exfoliate your face. Protocols differ across spas, but most use a wand to emit a concentrated stream of pressurized oxygen onto the skin’s surface.

Serums, often featuring hyaluronic acid known for its plumping effect, are applied using the wand or after the oxygen phase of the facial.

Duration of a session

Session times vary by spa, but you can expect an oxygen facial to last roughly 30 minutes to an hour. For instance, Bliss Spa offers a “Triple Oxygen Facial” lasting 75 minutes.

Recovery and downtime

Unlike invasive procedures, oxygen facials require no downtime or healing period. You can typically apply makeup right away if you wish.

What benefits might an oxygen facial provide?

Evidence around oxygen facials is mixed.

Many people report that their complexion looks luminous and refreshed afterward, and before-and-after photos often reflect this. Yet scientific studies validating these outcomes are limited.

Claimed benefits of oxygen facials

• Enhanced radiance. Proponents claim oxygen facials help pores better absorb hyaluronic acid and other active ingredients from serums. Results depend on the specific serums used.
• Improved hydration. The oxygen treatment helps drive serums into the skin. Think of the oxygen wand as a small delivery tube for ingredients. Skin typically appears and feels more hydrated, especially when hyaluronic acid is included.
• More even tone. Oxygen facials can introduce concentrated vitamins or botanical extracts, which may lead to brighter, more glowing skin.
• Reduction in fine lines. The treatments are said to enhance facial blood flow, contributing to a plumper, more radiant appearance.
• Calming acne. Oxygen can speed certain healing processes and may eliminate some bacteria. Because environments low in oxygen, like airplanes, can provoke skin troubles, oxygen facials might help soothe acne and reduce bacteria associated with some acne types.

How frequently should you get them?

Many dermatologists suggest monthly facials, though oxygen facials are often less exfoliating than other options. Consult a dermatologist or aesthetician for personalized guidance.

Oxygen facials can be a maintenance option for skin that’s already in good condition. Some clinicians recommend them for people in their 20s as a upkeep treatment.

They’re suitable at any age, but as skin matures you might consider more intensive interventions, such as laser treatments or microneedling.

Possible side effects and cautions

While numerous clients praise oxygen facials, others question their benefits.

Dr. Christopher B. Zachary, a dermatology professor and department chair at the University of California, Irvine, told The New York Times in 2006 that the idea of high-pressure oxygen helping the skin is “laughable,” and he referred to the treatment as “snake oil.”

Potential side effects

• Short-lived redness. If you have sensitive skin, the combination of serum and oxygen can produce redness that usually subsides within a few hours.
• Temporary puffiness. The intense oxygen blasts may trigger inflammation, making the skin appear plumped or slightly swollen.
• Allergic reactions to serums. If you have known allergies to skincare ingredients, inform your aesthetician. Stop using any product that causes itching, swelling, pain, or prolonged redness.

What does an oxygen facial cost?

Prices vary by location and the spa or clinic providing the service, but oxygen facials commonly range from $75 to $150. Some reports suggest averages between $200 and $500.

If a price looks unusually low, be cautious. Ensure the provider is reputable and properly trained.

Is it covered by insurance?

Oxygen facials are typically cosmetic and not covered by insurance. However, if they’re prescribed for certain skin conditions, a provider might consider coverage if deemed medically necessary.

Where to find a spa offering oxygen facials

Tools like SpaFinder can help locate spas that provide oxygen facials in your area and allow you to filter by ratings and reviews.

Can you do oxygen facials at home with OTC kits?

There are numerous over-the-counter oxygen facial kits at accessible price points. That said, these kits typically can’t match the intensity or professional delivery of a spa treatment.

Products marketed with oxygen may support “cell metabolism,” potentially assisting in removing dead skin cells. Always follow the product directions to use them safely and effectively.

Examples of oxygen-containing facial products include:

• Dr. Brandt Skincare Oxygen Facial Flash Recovery Mask
• Guerlain Météorites Oxygene Care Moisturizer & Radiance Booster
• Philosophy Take a Deep Breath Oil-Free Oxygenating Gel Cream
• Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask

How oxygen facials compare to other treatments

Several procedures can produce similar outcomes to oxygen facials, such as:

• Microdermabrasion: a generally safe exfoliation method that can improve sun damage, wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, and more
• HydraFacial: a three-step treatment that cleanses and peels, extracts and hydrates, then fuses and protects using a vacuum-like process

Bottom line

Based on anecdotal evidence, oxygen facials may help minimize fine lines, even out texture, boost radiance, and preserve a bright, youthful complexion.

However, definitive scientific support is lacking, and some dermatologists strongly dispute the benefits, suggesting the procedure might provoke unnecessary inflammation, redness, or puffiness.

Always choose a reputable, qualified spa for any treatment.

Many OTC products are marketed as oxygen-infused, but there’s limited research proving oxygen remains active in skincare formulations.

While some users report strong results, the primary advantage of these products may simply be hydration from moisturizing serums, whether or not they contain oxygen.