Makeup artists and estheticians alike believe in the power of cryotherapy. Or an ice facial, simply put. Many advise clients to sweep ice cubes over their face to reduce redness, shrink puffiness, reduce pore size and ultimately tighten the skin – essentially, cryotherapy for the face.
Cryotherapy originated in Japan in the late 1970’s as a solution for rheumatoid arthritis.
Athletes all over the world adopted the technique, and whole-body cryo chambers were constructed where they would stand in minimal clothing for up to three minutes, in below freezing temperatures, to soothe aching joints, reduce injury swelling, numb areas of inflammation, and aid in muscle recovery. Today, that process has been adopted for the face, with cryotherapy tools such as facial ice globes, ice rollers, cryo balls, and even pre-packaged water and oil infused ice cubes. Fancy right?
Facial cryotherapy is praised for its “immediate sculpting effects,” revealing skin that is firmer, tighter, and appears more lifted.
This is achieved because the coldness from the ice causes a “cold shock” to the skin. Board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, M.D. explains that this “causes blood vessels to constrict, firming and tightening the skin.” Once this subsides, “your blood vessels swell back up with fresh nutrient-rich blood. This temporary increase in localized blood flow enhances the performance of your skin-care products by helping actives penetrate deeper.” It’s even said that you’ll also notice an increase in your skin’s glow, as well as the improved look of scars.
But don’t just grab an ice cube out of your freezer to start with.
Invest in a cryotherapy specific tool, also advised by many dermatologists. Joshua Zeichner, M.D., FAAD. board-certified dermatologist explains, “Most ice globes on the market contain a gel-like substance that cools to a low temperature. However, they are not damaging to the skin in the same way that holding an ice cube to your face can be. Excessive exposure to cold temperatures can lead to frostbite in the skin or damage to underlying fat.”
Once you’ve found the perfect cryotherapy tool for you, store it in your freezer, and before each use run it under room temperature water to remove any frost that may have built up. Let it sit and dry for about five minutes, then begin by applying a moisturizing serum or facial oil to create a slip on the skin. Glide your tool from your chin up to your ears, repeating this motion along the bottom half of your face. Then bring the tool up to your forehead and sweep the tool down towards your ears repeating this motion across the top half of your face. It’s recommended to repeat each section five to ten times. And that’s it! Now, pick up your cryotherapy tool and be on your way to smooth, tight, firm skin!