You’ve probably heard of facial icing if you follow beauty influencers on Instagram. It’s a simple do-it-yourself process that involves placing ice cubes on your face using your hands or a tool. Proponents swear by it for its benefits, such as reducing inflammation or acne problems.

What is Facial Icing?

Of course, putting ice on the face is not entirely new. It is an old skincare trick. Beauticians have been saying that if you have a pimple, rub ice on it. Many also believe it is anecdotally. They attribute the increase in questions like this to the proliferation of social media and the availability of skincare tips.

Many professionals and skincare influencers are talking about it. People want to know what they can do. It sounds relaxing and good, but facial icing is not the same as sticking your face in a bowl of ice cream. The best way is to apply ice is with your hands or use an ice roller.

What You Need for an Ice Facial Treatment?

Only one tool is needed for this skincare. Generally, all you need is ice. You will also need an ice maker or ice cube tray. If you do not like to apply ice directly by hand, there are several other tools available on the market that you can try. For example, you can use a frozen face roller that you take after 20 minutes in the refrigerator or freezer.

With real ice, you would drip it on and let it melt. With rollers, you don’t have to worry about the water melting and having cold hands.

How To Do An Ice Facial?

Experts believe that ice facials are a faster, more affordable version of cryotherapy facials, which usually take 15 to 30 minutes and cost about $100. Unlike spa treatments, ice facials add only a minute (or less) to skincare.

You need to keep the ice moving for 30 seconds to a minute. When performed once or twice a day, the treatment becomes easier and provides long-term results. Avoid overstimulating or irritating the skin. You can do it any time of the day, but many people do it in the morning or before bed.

Benefits of Applying Ice to the Face

Although there are not many peer-reviewed studies on the effects of ice facials, here are what many believe are the benefit:

1) Effective for Chronic Skin Problems Such as Cystic Acne

Inflammation has been implicated in several chronic skin conditions, including eczema, acne, and psoriasis. Inflammation is also said to hasten the aging process. Proponents of ice treatments on the face say they help soothe inflammation.

2) Gives Your Skin a Natural Glow

Too much heat (sunburn) can cause burns. Besides, the Skin Cancer Foundation does not recommend sunbathing for glow, as tanning still increases the risk of skin cancer. Ice can be applied to the face for a natural look.

3) Ice Improves Lymphatic Flow

The main reason for this effect is that moving the ice helps to drain excess water from the lymphatic system, which is the cause of facial puffiness.

Cautions When Applying Ice To The Face

In general, anyone can perform ice treatments on the face, but there are a few things you should know before you begin.

1) Keep Moving the Ice

If you spend too much time in the cold without any precautions, you risk frostbite and burns on your hands. The same is true for ice on the face. For this reason, skin experts say it is essential to keep the ice moving for up to a minute.

2) Don’t Throw Away Your Moisturizer

Water keeps skin moist, but too much can dry it out. As water evaporates from the skin, the skin takes in moisture. Therefore, after icing, it is good to moisturize the skin to prevent it from drying out and cracking.

Have you ever tried this skincare? Share your experience with us in the comments below!