Kim Kardashian has embraced hyperbaric oxygen therapy, a controversial wellness trend that has attracted attention among celebrities and athletes alike. In an interview with The Sunday Times, Kardashian stated, “I’ve switched my mentality, and now I’m coming from a place of longevity and cellular health.”
The Skims founder is not alone. Stars such as LeAnn Rimes and Mayim Bialik have touted the treatment for various health benefits. Rimes described it as a method for “repairing the brain,” while Bialik has turned to it for autoimmune flare-ups. Biohackers Gary Brecka and Bryan Johnson have invested heavily in personal hyperbaric chamber setups, aiming to extend their lives and maintain youthfulness. High-profile athletes, including LeBron James and Michael Phelps, also use hyperbaric therapy to accelerate recovery, as do three major league sports teams in Philadelphia.
Despite the enthusiasm, health experts warn about the limited scientific backing for many of the claims made about hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO₂). Dr. Owen J. O’Neill, founding medical director of the Department of Undersea & Hyperbaric Medicine at Northwell’s Phelps Hospital, explained that while there are biological effects from hyperbaric oxygen treatment, these do not equate to reversing aging or extending lifespan. He stated that HBO₂ therapy has been FDA-approved for only 14 specific medical conditions, including decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, and severe anemia.
The origins of hyperbaric oxygen therapy date back to 1662, initially developed to treat lung disease and decompression sickness in divers. In modern applications, the therapy uses increased air pressure to enable the body to absorb more oxygen than it would at normal atmospheric pressure. Dr. O'Neill noted that breathing pure oxygen under pressure can stimulate new blood vessel growth, influence inflammation, and aid in tissue repair. However, he cautioned against using it for anti-aging or longevity without clear medical indications.
The safety of hyperbaric chambers is a significant concern, especially with the rise of portable devices marketed for home use. Dr. O’Neill strongly advised against these at-home chambers, stating that many do not meet U.S. manufacturing standards and may pose risks. He cited alarming incidents at holistic clinics, including the tragic death of five-year-old Thomas Cooper in 2025, who died during treatment at the Oxford Center in Detroit due to a fire inside the chamber.
The FDA has expressed concern over the improper use of hyperbaric chambers, emphasizing the need for machines to adhere to engineering and safety standards. The differences between at-home devices and medical-grade chambers can be stark; many portable units operate at lower pressures or utilize compressed air rather than medical-grade oxygen, significantly affecting the amount of oxygen delivered to users.
Dr. O’Neill pointed out that oxygen under pressure should be considered a drug, with specific dosages and indications for use. Potential side effects can include sinus injuries, ear problems, seizures, changes in blood pressure, and anxiety or claustrophobia within the chamber. He strongly recommended that individuals seeking treatment for any reason should do so under the supervision of trained medical professionals in FDA-approved environments.
Kardashian’s endorsement of hyperbaric oxygen therapy aligns her with a growing trend among celebrities who prioritize wellness and longevity. However, the medical community remains cautious, urging individuals to evaluate the evidence and consider the potential risks associated with the therapy. As the debate continues, the allure of hyperbaric chambers may prove difficult to resist for those seeking the latest in wellness trends, despite the warnings from experts.
According to NY POST.
