Several Misconceptions About Boost Oxygen (and Oxygen in General)
Introduction: Clearing Up Common Oxygen Myths
At Boost Oxygen, we’re passionate about educating consumers on the benefits of oxygen. It’s what we do every day—literally. As we engage with customers and read feedback online, we’ve noticed several recurring misconceptions about oxygen and Boost Oxygen. Let’s clear those up with facts.
MISCONCEPTION #1: “Oxygen Is Flammable”
The Truth About Oxygen and Fire
Oxygen is not flammable and does not burn.
However, oxygen can accelerate an existing fire. This means:
- Oxygen does NOT ignite flames
- Oxygen can make fires burn faster and hotter
- Avoid using oxygen directly near open flames
Bottom line: Oxygen isn’t the source of fire—it simply fuels one that already exists. Watch this video from Live with Kelly and Ryan to see the proof during their experiment involving a balloon filled with pure oxygen (the oxygen experiment starts at 2:00 into the video)
MISCONCEPTION #2: “The Air We Breathe Is Oxygen”
What’s Actually in the Air?
The air you breathe is only about 21% oxygen, not 100%.
Here’s the breakdown:
- 78% nitrogen
- 21% oxygen
- ~1% other gases
At higher altitudes, oxygen levels decrease, which can lead to:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Sickness
Key takeaway: We’re not breathing pure oxygen—far from it.
MISCONCEPTION #3: “Breathing Too Much Oxygen Is Harmful”
Is Supplemental Oxygen Safe?
This misconception often comes from misunderstandings about extreme medical or scientific scenarios.
Reality:
- Oxygen is natural and essential to life
- The average person breathes hundreds of gallons of oxygen daily
- Supplemental oxygen is safe for normal use
The only known risks occur when:
- Breathing medical-grade oxygen (99.2%+) for extended periods (e.g., 16+ hours continuously)
- At high pressure environments, typically applying only to deep-sea divers.
Bottom line: Everyday supplemental oxygen use is safe. Our supplemental oxygen canisters are not medical-grade oxygen, and cannot be used nonstop for extended periods of 16+ hours or more.
MISCONCEPTION #4: “Boost Oxygen Is the Same as Medical Oxygen”
Understanding the Difference
Boost Oxygen is not medical oxygen.
| Boost Oxygen | Medical Oxygen |
|---|---|
| No prescription required | Requires prescription |
| Designed for healthy individuals | Used to treat medical conditions |
| Portable and convenient | Delivered via medical systems |
Medical oxygen:
- Must be 99.2%+ purity
- Is regulated and prescribed by a doctor
Boost Oxygen:
- Is intended for lifestyle and wellness use
- Does not treat or cure illness
Important note: Some products may claim extremely high purity levels—but if they were truly medical-grade, they would legally require a prescription.
MISCONCEPTION #5: “Boost Oxygen Is Just Canned Air”
Oxygen vs. Regular Air
This is one of the biggest misunderstandings.
- Regular air = 21% oxygen
- Boost Oxygen = nearly 5x more oxygen
That’s a significant difference.
The remaining small percentage in the canister is simply ambient air, not fillers or additives.
Key takeaway: Boost Oxygen delivers concentrated oxygen—not ordinary air.
MISCONCEPTION #6: “You Need a Prescription to Buy Boost Oxygen”
Accessibility of Supplemental Oxygen
You do not need a prescription to purchase Boost Oxygen.
Why?
- It is not classified as medical oxygen
- It is intended for general wellness use
Boost Oxygen is widely available at major retailers, including:
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Walmart
- Dick’s Sporting Goods
- Amazon.com
This makes it easy and convenient for consumers to access.
MISCONCEPTION #7: “My Boost Oxygen Canister Arrived Empty”
Why the Canister Feels Lightweight
This is a common concern for first-time users.
The truth:
- Oxygen is a very lightweight gas
- The canister may feel light—but it is completely full
Why not make it heavier?
- Adding weight would be misleading
- It would increase cost unnecessarily
To help clarify, Boost Oxygen even includes labeling to reassure customers that:
lightweight does NOT mean empty
Final Thoughts: Separating Oxygen Facts from Fiction
There’s a lot of misinformation surrounding oxygen and supplemental oxygen products. By understanding the facts, consumers can make more informed decisions about their wellness routines.
Key Takeaways:
- Oxygen is not flammable, but supports combustion
- Air contains only 21% oxygen
- Supplemental oxygen is completely safe
- Boost Oxygen is not medical oxygen
- It is not canned air—it’s concentrated oxygen
- No prescription is required
- Lightweight canisters are normal and full
