A simple guide to pressure, oxygen, and purpose
When people start researching hyperbaric oxygen, they often come across a range of pressures — from gentle “mild” systems operating around 1.3–1.5 ATA, to clinical systems running at 2.0 ATA or higher.
While the underlying principle is the same — using pressure to help oxygen become more available in the body — the way these chambers are designed, used, and regulated can be very different.
Let’s explore those differences clearly and simply.
1. Pressure Levels: Gentle vs. Medical
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Mild Hyperbaric Chambers (1.3–1.5 ATA)
Mild chambers gently increase atmospheric pressure — roughly equivalent to what you’d experience about 10–15 feet below sea level.
This modest rise is enough to enhance the amount of oxygen that can dissolve into blood plasma, supporting general wellbeing and relaxation. -
Medical-Grade Chambers (2.0–3.0 ATA)
Hospital-based or clinical HBOT systems operate at higher pressures and typically use 100% medical-grade oxygen.
These sessions are tightly controlled and prescribed by doctors for specific, approved medical conditions such as decompression sickness or non-healing wounds.
2. Oxygen Source: Concentrator vs. 100% Oxygen
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Mild Systems use oxygen concentrators, which draw in ambient air and deliver up to ~95% pure oxygen at the outlet.
The oxygen you breathe through a mask typically ranges between 60–90%, depending on fit and airflow. Combined with mild pressure, this provides a comfortable, relaxing oxygen experience. -
Clinical Systems supply 100% oxygen directly from cylinders or central lines under high pressure.
This requires specific safety protocols, fire-prevention systems, and medical supervision.
3. Purpose and Use
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Mild HBOT (mHBOT) is designed for general wellness, relaxation, and recovery support.
It’s used in spas, wellness centres, sports facilities, and private homes by people looking to unwind, recharge, or complement other wellbeing routines. -
High-Pressure HBOT is a medical treatment administered only under prescription in clinical environments.
These sessions are used for specific conditions and always involve qualified medical professionals.
4. Comfort and Accessibility
Mild hyperbaric chambers are soft-sided and user-friendly, making them easy to use and maintain.
They offer a calm, reclining experience with gentle pressurisation and normal air circulation.
High-pressure chambers are rigid, medical-grade enclosures that require trained operators and are typically found in hospitals or dedicated clinics.
5. Oxygen Absorption and Pressure Physics
Both mild and high-pressure HBOT rely on the same physical laws — Henry’s Law and Dalton’s Law — which describe how gases dissolve and behave under pressure.
At 1.5 ATA, oxygen partial pressure in the body can nearly double compared to breathing normal air at sea level, while higher pressures can increase it even more.
The difference lies in the intensity and purpose — mild systems focus on gentle, wellbeing-focused exposure; medical systems use higher pressures for clinical effect.
6. Safety and Supervision
Mild HBOT systems operate within safe, low-pressure ranges and include multiple safety features. They can be used at home or in wellness settings with basic training.
High-pressure medical HBOT must always be supervised by qualified healthcare professionals due to the greater oxygen concentration and pressure involved.
7. Which Is Right for You?
If your goal is general wellbeing, relaxation, or recovery, a mild hyperbaric chamber offers an accessible and comfortable experience.
If you have a medical condition and are seeking treatment, you should consult your doctor or a certified hyperbaric physician about clinical HBOT.
The Bottom Line
Both mild and high-pressure hyperbaric systems use the same core science — oxygen under pressure — but they serve very different purposes.
Mild chambers, like those offered by Oxygens, are designed for non-medical wellness use, focusing on relaxation, oxygen availability, and overall balance.
Clinical HBOT, on the other hand, is a regulated medical therapy for specific conditions, delivered under specialist supervision.
Both are fascinating examples of how oxygen and pressure can work together — one for health care, and one for everyday wellbeing.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is for general educational purposes only. It discusses scientific principles related to oxygen and pressure and references broader hyperbaric research that may not apply directly to Oxygens equipment. Our systems are designed for non-medical wellbeing and relaxation use and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition.
