Open System Colonics vs. Closed: Key Differences

Written By Megan Fernandez

Open System Colonics vs. closed. Understand the key differences between open and closed colonic systems for colon hydrotherapy and bowel cleansing.

At Fernz Wellness in Los Angeles, we specialize in colon hydrotherapy and electro lymphatic drainage, and a common question we get from first-time clients is: “What’s the difference between open-system and closed-system colonics?”

It’s a great question, and an important one. There are two main types of colonic systems, open system and closed system. While both are designed to support colon cleansing, the way they work, and the experience you have during the session, is very different. In this article, we’re breaking down those differences, with a special focus on the LIBBE open system, which is the more modern method and the one we use in our studio.

But before we get into comparing the two systems, let’s take a moment to explain what colon hydrotherapy actually is. That way, whether you’re brand new or just doing your research, you’ll have a solid foundation to make the choice that feels best for you.

See our full guide on the benefits of a colon cleanse here.

What Is Colon Hydrotherapy?

Colonics, also called colonic irrigation or hydrotherapy, are a form of internal water cleansing that gently supports the body in flushing out the colon. People come to us for all kinds of reasons, from occasional constipation, bloating, wanting to feel lighter, or simply to stay on top of their overall wellness. Some are curious, some are regulars, and others come in because they’ve tried everything else and just want to feel better in their bodies.

Colon hydrotherapy helps stimulate natural movement in the bowel, especially when things are feeling slow or stagnant. It’s not extreme, and it’s not about doing something drastic to your body. Instead, it works with your system to support what your body is already designed to do, just with a little extra help.

Some people feel immediate relief from bloating and gas or sluggishness, while others walk away feeling more grounded, more clear-headed, or simply more in tune with their body. There’s no single experience that defines a good session, it’s about meeting your body where it’s at that day, and it all depends on what your body needs to release, reset, or let go of.

We always say that colonics are just one piece of a bigger picture. They’re not a replacement for rest, hydration, or mindful eating, but for many people, they’re a supportive add-on that makes a real difference.

What’s the Difference? Open System vs. Closed System

When you’re deciding whether to try colon hydrotherapy, one of the most important things to understand is that not all colonics are the same. The experience can feel totally different depending on the equipment used, and that really comes down to whether the system is open or closed. Every colonic system falls into one of these two categories, and they function in very different ways.

In an open system, like the LIBBE device we use at our wellness studio, the water enters the colon using a gentle gravity-fed system. There’s no force or pressure, just the natural flow of water moving downward, like a soft stream. Once your colon is filled to a point where your body feels the natural urge to release, you eliminate directly into the basin that’s built into the table. The session is quiet, private, and incredibly empowering. You’re in control of your own process. And while we’re always nearby if you need help, we’re not hovering over you the whole time. For people who value privacy, comfort, and a relaxed pace, this is often the preferred experience.

Now, compare that to a closed system colonic, which is a bit more traditional and therapist-driven. In a closed system, the water is introduced using a pressurized stream, and a certified colon hydrotherapist is present for the entire session. The therapist controls the flow of water, monitors the pressure, and when the pressure reaches maximum levels, they manually drain the colon back. The water goes in and comes out through the same tube, which is inserted using a speculum. There’s no natural urge guiding elimination — it’s all controlled externally. The therapist is right there managing the process, which some people appreciate, especially if they want guidance throughout or are dealing with more complicated health concerns.

Privacy

Open systems offer a much higher level of privacy. You’re covered, in a quiet space, handling your own release. There’s no need for someone to be in the room unless you want them there. In closed systems, because the therapist is present and involved in every phase of the process, some people may feel a bit more exposed.

Comfort


Many clients report that the open system is very gentle. The gravity-fed approach respects your body’s signals. There’s no forced sensation. Closed systems, due to the pressurized stream, can feel a bit more intense.

Setup and Equipment

Open systems use a disposable rectal tube, which is much smaller and more comfortable than the speculum used in closed systems. Everything on the open system is either disposable, including the rectal tubes, or thoroughly sanitized between sessions. With closed systems, the insertion process can feel more clinical, and because the water and waste move through the same tubing, hygiene must be meticulously managed.

Your Involvement

In the open system, you are in control. You decide when you're ready, you guide your body with your own natural urge, and you notify us only if you need support. It’s a more client-led experience. In the closed system, you’re essentially on the ride while the therapist steers the ship.

From our experience in the studio, people who enjoy autonomy and want to feel more in tune with their own body during the session usually prefer the open system. Those who are dealing with more medicalized issues might feel safer with the therapist-led nature of the closed system.

There’s no right or wrong. But the open vs. closed difference is significant, not just technically, but energetically. One invites you into your own healing experience, while the other offers full guidance throughout.

Understanding the Open System Colon Hydrotherapy 

Let’s really break down what happens in an open system colon hydrotherapy session at Fernz Wellness in Los Angeles. Once you’re in the treatment room, you’ll see the LIBBE open system colon hydrotherapy device, it looks like a comfy spa bed. The system is completely prepped and clean, with disposable parts including the rectal tube, ready for you.

You’ll undress from the waist down and cover yourself with a drape. Then, you’ll lie back on the unit, position yourself comfortably, and when you’re ready (yes, you decide when you are ready), you gently insert a small, flexible rectal tube into the rectum. This part surprises people, not because it’s difficult or painful (it shouldn’t be), but because the tube is much smaller than they expected. Unlike the speculum used in closed systems, the rectal tube used in the open system colon is soft, narrow, and designed for minimal discomfort.

Once inserted, the water begins to flow. This is where the beauty of the gentle gravity-fed system comes in. The flow of water is very slow and smooth, no pumps, no pressure. It’s just gravity doing its thing. The water is then delivered through the attached hose, and because the water is purified using ultra-violet technology, you can feel safe knowing there are no contaminants entering your body.

Comfort, Control, and Cleanliness All Built In

As the colon is filled gradually, you’ll start to feel the natural urge to release. And when that happens, you simply let go. Waste, water, and gas are released directly into the basin underneath you. There’s an odor exhaust system built into the unit to make sure the air stays fresh and clean, and everything is flushed away immediately, so there’s no mess, no smell, and no awkwardness.

The automatic water temperature control ensures that the temperature within the colon stays at a comfortable, safe range. It’s another one of those small details that you may not even notice, but it plays a big role in how relaxing and smooth your session feels. You don’t have to worry about temperature fluctuations or discomfort.

Throughout the session, you’re in full control. You can pause the flow whenever you want, breathe through the process, listen to your body, and take your time. We’re always nearby if you need anything, but the session is yours, we’re here to support you, not to rush or direct you. This is your time, and we fully respect that.

The open system tends to be a perfect fit for people who are more private or modest, those who prefer a quiet and calm space without someone present during elimination, or anyone who simply likes to feel in charge of their own experience. It’s also ideal for those who are sensitive to pressure or invasive tools and want a setup that feels more spa-like than clinical.

One of the things we really value about the open system, especially the way it’s built into the LIBBE device, is the attention to hygiene and ease. Every single part that touches your body is either disposable or thoroughly sanitized. That includes the hose, the rectal tube, and even the protective coverings on the unit itself. We’re extremely particular about cleanliness. We treat each session as if we were setting it up for ourselves, with the same level of care and precision.

Why LIBBE Open System Works So Well for Our Clients

Clients consistently tell us they feel more in control and less anxious when using the LIBBE system. They don’t feel rushed. They don’t feel exposed. They feel like the session is happening with their body, not to it. That shift in experience makes a huge impact, physically and mentally.

Behind the scenes, the setup process is very clean and organized. We prep everything in advance so the room feels calm and ready the moment you walk in. The tubing is all pre-sealed. The system is flushed before and after every session. We keep everything incredibly sanitary without making it feel clinical. And because the system is intuitive and designed to work with your body’s rhythms, it supports a calm, safe experience from start to finish.

One small but empowering part of the LIBBE experience is that you get to let the therapist know when you're ready. That might sound like a small thing, but it’s huge for your comfort. You decide when you're ready to start the flow. You decide when you’re done. You don’t need to worry about someone pushing a button or telling you what to do. You guide your own pace.

And we’re right outside the door if you ever need us, we’ve got your back, without hovering. In my experience, this kind of environment makes people feel more confident and more tuned in to their own body. That’s why we use LIBBE. It aligns with our whole philosophy, that you deserve a gentle, clean, empowering experience that works with you.

Understanding the Closed System in Detail

Now, let’s talk about closed system colonics, so you can really understand how it differs, not just in equipment, but in the whole feel of the experience.

In a closed system session, everything is managed by a certified colon hydrotherapist from start to finish. The client lies on a treatment table, and the therapist begins by inserting a speculum into the rectum, which is a larger and more rigid device compared to the rectal tube used in open systems. Once inserted, the speculum is connected to tubing that allows water to flow in and waste to flow out, all within the same closed loop.

The water enters the colon via a pressurized stream, which is one of the biggest differences compared to the gentle gravity-fed system of the open setup. Because of this added pressure, the colon must be monitored constantly to avoid discomfort or risk of overfilling. As the water fills the colon and pressure builds, the therapist manually drains the colon back, releasing the water and waste through the same tube. This process is repeated several times over the course of the session, typically with the therapist adjusting flow, pressure, and timing based on how your body is responding.

From a practical standpoint, this setup requires a lot more hands-on involvement. The therapist is in the room the entire time and is responsible for managing the session. They guide the timing, the amount of water entering the body, and the elimination process. While this might feel reassuring to some, especially clients who feel nervous or need help with positioning, it can also feel a bit clinical or less private to others.

There are definitely times when the closed system treatment is the right choice. Some clients genuinely want that level of support and hands-on guidance. Others may have certain medical histories or specific reasons that require a therapist to manage the session more actively. But for people who are sensitive, more modest, or who prefer a quieter, more private approach, it can feel a little too structured or intense.

Because water is being introduced under pressure, it’s very important that the therapist is well-trained, not just technically, but intuitively, too. The pressure reaches maximum levels at points during the session, and it takes a skilled practitioner to know when to pause, when to release, and how to adjust to keep the client comfortable. If not monitored properly, it can feel crampy or even a bit overwhelming, especially for first-timers.

Another difference is how elimination is handled. In a closed system, the release happens through the tubing, so the client doesn’t feel the natural urge to eliminate in the same way they would in an open system. The release is passive, more mechanical. There’s a disconnect from your body’s natural rhythm, which some clients don’t mind, but others miss.

It’s also worth noting that the closed system’s use of the speculum can feel more invasive, especially for those new to colonics. While a skilled therapist will always make the process as gentle as possible, the equipment itself is bulkier and the sensation is different than the more subtle rectal tube used in LIBBE sessions.

Choosing the Best Colon Cleansing System for You

Deciding to book a colonic irrigation session can bring up a lot of questions, especially if it's your first time or you're trying to choose between open and closed systems. It's totally normal to feel unsure at first. What we always tell our clients that there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Systems are either open or closed, and while the goal is similar, the experience and how your body responds can be very different.

How Comfortable Do You Want to Be During Your Session?

Privacy is a huge factor in choosing between an open system and a closed colonic. If you’re someone who appreciates quiet, likes to move at your own pace, and prefers to handle elimination on your own, the open system is generally regarded as more modern and empowering for just that reason. You stay in charge of the pace, and that control makes a big difference in how relaxed you feel.

Unlike closed systems, which are fully managed by the therapist, the open system allows for more independence and privacy. Both are valid experiences, it just depends on what feels right to you.

Your Health History and What to Share With Your Therapist

Before your first session, it’s important to share any relevant medical history, especially if you've had colon surgeries, rectal sensitivities, or other gastrointestinal procedures. Certain conditions may make one system more suitable than the other, and a well-trained therapist will always choose what’s safest for you. There are also systems in which the water must be monitored constantly, especially closed systems where the use of pressure introduces more variability.

In open systems, features like venting and automatic water temperature control make things much smoother and more consistent. But either way, your therapist should always be making sure your body is responding comfortably, regardless of the system type.

Know Your Intention, Why Are You Getting a Colonic?

Another important question to ask yourself before deciding to have a colonic is: What do I want to get out of this?

If your main goal is to feel lighter, less bloated, or more regular, then either system can support you. But if you're curious about how your body responds, and you want to feel more connected to the process, open systems tend to give you that. You’re able to sense and respond to your body’s natural urge in real time, which many clients find empowering.

If your colonic is part of a broader treatment plan, perhaps with a functional or integrative practitioner, or if you're coming in with more complex health needs, the closed colonic might be a better match. Closed systems allow for more direct control by the therapist, which is sometimes preferred when precision and feedback are necessary. It also offers more opportunity for the therapist to observe how your body is responding to colon irrigation throughout the session.

Tips from a Certified Colon Hydrotherapist

Over the years, we’ve guided hundreds of people through their first colonic, and many more through their second, third, or fiftieth. And let me tell you, as someone who does this day in and day out, there are a few things we see and hear over and over that just don’t get talked about enough outside the treatment room. So here are a few insights, straight from the hands-on experience of someone who’s been there with clients every step of the way.

What You Do Before Your Session Really Matters

We always recommend avoiding a heavy meal beforehand, not because you need to follow any strict routine, but simply because it makes the session more comfortable. A full stomach and a colonic just don’t mix well. A light snack is okay if you’re hungry, but keep it simple and avoid anything greasy or heavy right before your appointment.

Hydration is also huge. If you come in dehydrated, the bowel tends to be drier and more resistant, which makes the whole process less effective. We can always tell the difference. Drinking enough water the day before and the morning of your session can help your body respond better. It’s one of those small things that can really impact how smooth the session feels overall.

Read more about the transformative power of colon clean hydrotherapy here.

Dress for Comfort

This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to overlook. Wear clothes that are easy to change in and out of. Skip anything tight or high-waisted. After your session, your body will appreciate having room to relax. Most clients say they feel best in loose joggers, soft cotton, or anything that doesn’t press on the abdomen. It’s a small thing, but it really helps you settle into the session with more ease.

Breathing Makes a Bigger Difference Than You Think

This is something people rarely expect, but it comes up all the time. The way you breathe during your colonic can change everything. Colon hydrotherapy isn’t just physical, it’s deeply connected to your nervous system. If you’re tense or anxious, your gut feels that and tightens up too. But when you slow down your breath and stay present, your body is more likely to release easily and naturally.

We often tell people to breathe through their belly or visualize calm waves moving through the body, especially when they feel the natural urge to release. It helps the muscles soften and encourages better flow. 

Trust the Safety of the Equipment

It’s totally normal to have questions like, “Is this water safe?” or “What if it gets too hot or too cold?”, especially during your first session. But part of our job is to make sure you never have to worry about those things. The water used is ultra-violet purified, and the system constantly regulates water temperature. Your only job is to relax and tune in. There’s a lot happening behind the scenes to make sure your session stays within a safe, gentle range.

Post-Session Self-Care Isn’t Optional

Once your session is done, your body may feel surprisingly different. Some people feel light and clear, like they could take on the world. Others feel calm and a little sleepy. We always tell people to take a few extra minutes before heading out, there’s no need to rush. Let your body land.

It’s also a good idea to drink some water and have a gentle, nourishing meal afterward. Nothing too heavy, your body just did some work. Be kind to it. And if you’re feeling emotional, that’s not weird. The gut holds a lot more than just food. When it releases, emotions can come up too. We’ve seen this many times, and it’s always okay.

See our full article on getting a Colon Cleanse in Los Angeles here.

fernz wellness

Fernz Wellness - Los Angeles Colon Hydrotherapy

Learn more about us here and discover how our services can be a vital part of your journey to optimal health. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to better digestive health and improved well-being.

Our address is 5486 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 and you can also call or text us at (424) 281-9366.

Conclusion 

We always like to remind people is that there’s no “better” system when it comes to colonics, there’s just the one that’s better for you. Both open system and closed system colonics are valid. They each have a place in the world of wellness, and they each support the body in their own way. We’ve seen both systems help people feel lighter, more balanced, and more connected to their own health. The important thing is making an informed choice that feels good in your body and aligns with your comfort level.

That said, we do find that the open system is often more accessible and comfortable for many clients, especially when using something like the LIBBE device, which is designed with user control, safety, and ease in mind. It’s generally regarded as more modern, and it gives you, the client, more of a say in how the session unfolds. For people who value privacy and want to ease into the process with a little more autonomy, it tends to feel more natural.

But no matter which system you lean toward, your comfort and safety always come first. That’s a non-negotiable in our studio. We’re not here to push you in one direction or to make decisions for you, we’re here to help you understand your options and guide you toward what feels most aligned. We’ll answer every question, walk you through the equipment, and give you the space to decide what feels right without pressure.

So whether you’re brand new to this or you’ve been curious for a while, please know you can take your time. You can ask questions. You can change your mind. We’re here to support you without judgment. And if you ever feel unsure, that’s what we’re here for, our job is to help make the unfamiliar feel approachable.

At the end of the day, colonics are just one tool in a much bigger wellness picture. But when they’re done in a way that honors your body and respects your comfort, they can be a truly empowering part of your routine. 

Contact us today to schedule your consultation. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do colonics hurt?


No, they really shouldn’t. With an open system like LIBBE, the process is very gentle. If something ever feels uncomfortable, it’s important to speak up right away, comfort is key, and adjustments can always be made.

Will it be messy or smell bad?


This is one of those things that people are secretly worried about but don’t want to ask. The good news? No, it’s not messy, and there’s no odor. The odor exhaust system in the LIBBE device keeps the room fresh and ventilated throughout your session. Everything is immediately carried away into a closed drain, so there’s no clean-up or awkward aftermath.

Do I need to fast or prepare before a colonic?


Not at all. You don’t need to do anything drastic. We just recommend that you avoid heavy meals a couple hours before your session, drink plenty of water, and wear something comfy. You want your body to be relaxed and hydrated, not busy digesting a big meal.

Will I be running to the bathroom all day afterward?


Not usually. Most people feel finished right after their session. Some might feel one more release later in the day, but it’s rarely urgent. We do recommend staying close to home the first time, just to be on the safe side, but most people go back to work or errands without issue.

How do I know if my therapist is properly trained?


This is such an important question, and honestly, not enough people ask it. You want to make sure your colon hydrotherapist is certified and trained in the type of equipment they’re using. Ask how long they’ve been practicing, and don’t be afraid to request a clear explanation of their setup and safety protocols. A good therapist will be happy to share all of that with you.

How many sessions do I need?


This depends on your goals and how your body responds. Some people feel great after just one, while others choose to do a short series, especially when starting out. We always suggest starting with one and seeing how you feel. Then we can have a conversation about what your body might benefit from moving forward.

Can colonics help with skin, bloating, or fatigue?


They can support those things, yes, but we never make promises. From what we’ve seen in practice, clients often report feeling less bloated, more energized, and even noticing clearer skin after sessions. But colonics aren’t a magic solution, they work best as part of an overall lifestyle that includes hydration, rest, movement, and mindful eating.

See more FAQ’s here.

Megan Fernandez
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