During dermatology procedures, patients want reduced anxiety and pain. Nitrous oxide has been demonstrated to deliver increased calmness and comfort in many dermatology procedures. Did you know that nitrous oxide wears off quickly? Patients rarely have side effects and can even drive themselves home afterward! Plus, nitrous oxide is relatively inexpensive to purchase and to maintain. Its use in dermatology makes good sense. Here are five procedures that rely on nitrous oxide. Its usage is far more widespread1 in dermatology than just these examples.
1. Tattoo removal
Laser tattoo removal can be an excruciating process. Many patients describe it as being significantly more painful than the tattoo itself. Nitrous oxide allows dermatologists to remove large back tattoos or full sleeves in a single session. A study conducted by Dr. Jared Mallalieu2 revealed that patients rated their pain as significantly lower when administered nitrous oxide. On a scale of 1-10, patients rated the pain of tattoo removal as 9.1 when treated with lidocaine or prilocaine. Those treated with nitrous oxide rated their pain as 2.6.
2. Hair Transplants and Restoration
Frequently, hair loss treatment requires multiple injections and can be time-consuming. That alone is enough to cause many patients to avoid the procedure. Pain doesn’t have to be the way forward! Nitrous oxide coupled with local anesthetic is proven to minimize pain.
3. Pediatric Procedures
The safety and efficacy of nitrous oxide has been well established in other fields. Its proven track record extends to pediatric dermatology too! Nitrous oxide is a proven anxiolytic, meaning it reduces anxiety. For the child who is afraid of needles or nervous about pain, nitrous oxide is a great option. Its rapid onset, short duration, and minimal side effects make it a great choice for the smallest dermatology patients.
4. Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is increasing in popularity as a treatment for actinic keratosis. These are spots on the skin caused by sun exposure, which may develop into skin cancer. It is not uncommon for PDT to cause significant pain. Researchers3 have tested the use of nitrous oxide for pain management in PDT and have discovered it significantly reduces pain by a stunning 55.2%. While many patients had to stop therapy because of pain, nitrous oxide reduced interruptions by 82%. Patients who had nitrous oxide reported being very satisfied or extremely satisfied with their treatment.
5. Dermabrasion
Want to get rid of fine lines, wrinkles, or acne scarring, or improve your overall skin tone? Dermabrasion is a popular choice by dermatologists. A regional anesthetic is frequently used alongside a cooling agent. But, if a patient experiences discomfort, nitrous oxide may be used. It eases the pain and allows the procedure to continue without interruption.
To learn more about CalOx’s nitrous oxide for dermatology offices, contact us today.