Face Icing: Is it Worth It?

Face Icing: Benefits, Risks, and How to Do It Right

Written by Camilla Moln. Updated on Close-up of a radiant, glowing face.

Have you seen many videos online of your favorite celebrities and influencers using the popular Korean beauty hack of soaking your face in water or just icing it? There truly has been a lot of traction. But the real question is, is it worth it? While certain skincare products and treatments are an investment that you must make, icing your face is anything but. It’s an affordable DIY treatment that is easy and chill. However, did you know this ritual has been followed in a few spas and is known as Cool Sculpting? It has been a mainstay in a couple of cultures for quite a few years.

 

So, let’s read further and find out the benefits, facts, and even the risks of icing your face. Plus, let’s learn the right way to do it!

A stack of clear ice cubes.
Simple ice cubes, the key ingredient in icing.

What Exactly is Face Icing?

It’s nothing complex, but icing your face is exactly how it sounds like. It includes applying ice to your face. The cold and low temperatures results in the blood to rise right beneath the surface of your skin. This leads to a variety of benefits. You can do it at home and even at a spa, and reap the benefits that come with it.

A young girl with smooth, clear skin.
The result of icing: smooth and clear skin.

The Benefits of Icing Your Face

Had a long night or an early start to your day? Has your skin been feeling dull for the past few days? Icing your face can be the perfect pick-me-up for your facial skin. Ahead are some benefits that you can avail when icing your face on a regular basis:

Does it Control Puffiness? Yes, yes!

Ice can help reduce inflammation in the face. This means that if you have a face that looks too swollen after a long night or dehydration, this can be a good escape. When applied on the face, the cool temperature constricts the blood vessels, helps reduce circulation, and cuts down the swelling. Cool temperature also helps drain excess fluids from the lymphatic system on your face; this is a way to reduce the appearance of puffiness.

Want to Get Rid of Eye Bags? Face Icing is the way to go!

Icing your face can help in the reduction of the overall swelling on your face. But it can also be used to address your under-eye bags. Make sure to gently press and minimize the amount of time the ice stays under your eyes. Be sure to remember that the under-eye skin is quite fragile and thin.

A close-up of acne-prone skin.
It can help soothe and reduce acne.

Eliminate Your Acne But Slowly

Face icing can not entirely treat acne but it can slow down inflammation and minimize your facial pores. This leads to a decrease in excessive production of oil. Since ice is anti-inflammatory by nature, it can help in the cure of cysts, papules, nodules, and pustules. If you are icing your face, make sure to change your face to avoid the spread of bacteria from one side to another.

 

Glowing Skin? Here We Come!

Who doesn’t love a glassy, glowy look on the face? Now get rid of the dullness on your face and get a natural look with face icing. The cold temperature from the ice causes the blood vessels to tighten, which reduces the appearance of large pores and skin imperfections. You can keep doing it to make it permanent.

A list of tips and tricks written on paper.
Essential tips and tricks for effective face icing.

Ice Your Face Safely Using Our Tips

All you need to do to ice your face is get some ice.  That’s right, but it’s not recommended to apply it directly to your face as it can result in redness. Instead, follow the tips below to get it right.

  • Get a thin cloth and wrap it around the ice. This will be the perfect way to protect your skin.
  • Now lightly massage it on your face in a circular motion.
  • Make sure there are constant movements! Also, lightly massage around your mouth, cheeks, chin, forehead, nose, and jaw.
  • Do not ice one portion of your skin for longer than usual. It could result in irritated skin and you do not want that.
  • Make sure to moisturize your face after so your skin doesn’t dry out.

Face Icing Isn’t for Everyone: Who Needs to Avoid?

Facial icing is quite safe for almost everyone but there are some people who need to steer clear of it.

  • If you have thin or sensitive skin then facial icing may cause redness. This can cause damage to your already irritated skin. So avoid at all costs, at least until your skin gets better.
  • If you have broken capillaries, which is usually red lines in the shape of spider web under your skin. Avoid ice at all costs because can delay the healing process.
  • If you have undergone a facial surgery such as peels, cosmetic surgery, and laser then skip the face icing. Let your skin heal naturally at least until the doctor tells you to.
A face looking refreshed and revitalized after icing.
The rejuvenating effect of face icing.

How Often Can You Do Face Icing?

Icing your face is a DIY trick that you can to do to naturally brighten up your face. But it’s not a all-in-one cure or a long term cure for all your skin issues. You can do it at least once a day, either in the morning to get a little wake-up for your skin after a long night. Or even at night, before sleeping after a long tiring day. Follow up with your skincare routine after to keep your skin hydrated and tackle other issues that need treatment.

Final Verdict

Icing your face isn’t something that you must incorporate into your skincare routine. Instead, it is a choice. Now that you know all the ways it can be beneficial, adding face icing can make your skin feel awake. It’s a natural wake-me-up that can be a quick and easy way to brighten and cool your skin before starting your skincare. As it is making its way through TikTok, people have observed results, but while you’re following it, add other serums and sunblock to give your skin that perfect means of hydration.

 

So, is icing your face worth it? We do believe it is beneficial!

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Camilla is an experienced Consultant with more than 20 years of preparing professional articles for numerous online resources. She has done a tremendous job and has learned a lot during her career. Camilla will advise you on the latest trends and give amazing tips on how to decorate a house.
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