ABSTRACT

Ozone is a colorless and sharp odorous natural gas composed of three oxygen atoms. Ozone is vital in stratosphere by absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation. Ozone therapy may be summarized as administering a particular amount of ozone/ oxygen mixture into body cavities or circulation. Ozone/oxygen gas mixture can be applied via intravenous, intramuscular, intraarticular, intrapleural, intrarectal and intradiscal as well as topically. Ozone is an antioxidant and activates immune system. During this period, hydrogen peroxide produced by oxidative stress and lipid oxidations mediates the biological effects of ozone therapy by acting as a second messenger. Clinical studies on the effects of ozone on the skin have shown that ozone can be either toxic, or safe, depending upon its dosage, length of exposure and the antioxidant capacity of the tissue exposed. The aim of applications of ozone is activating the circulation and besides regenerating the altered organic functions during many illnesses. These effects are thought to be mediated by induction of IFN-β, activation of superoxide dismutase and induction of TGF- β. The authors applying ozone therapy claim that they have got great results, however this technique has not been approved by serious institutions like FDA. The aim of this manuscript is to summarize the recent literature and advances on the effect of ozone in dermatology.