Chilling is not just good for relaxing. Literal chilling has multiple benefits for your skin. We are talking about ice packs for the face and all the benefits that come with it. And the possible side effects as well.
We all know that ice packs are great when someone is suffering from a physical injury. But did you know that ice packs are wonderful for your skin as well?
An ice pack on the face is exactly what it sounds like; you put an ice pack or something similar on your face, either in the morning or any other time of the day. Why? Because there are so many benefits to this simple trick.
In this article, we shall discuss everything you need to know about putting ice packs on your face;
- The benefits
- The right way of doing it
- Things to avoid
Let’s get started.
Benefits of Ice Pack on Face (Facial Icing)
It may sound unbelievable, but something as simple as putting an ice pack on your face can have wonderful effects on your skin and appearance.
Let’s take a look at all the benefits of facial icing and why you should consider doing it every day.
Reduces Facial Puffiness
Remember that morning after a night of partying and drinking when you would look at your face and feel as if someone pumped air inside your skin? We’ve been there.
But the best thing is that an ice pack can easily remove the puffiness, whether it is from late-night drinking or just improper sleep.
The puffiness occurs due to excess fluids stored in the lymphatic system. Ice efficiently drains this excess fluid build-up and instantly reduces puffiness.
Reduces Under-Eye Bagginess
No one wants to see those dreadful bags under their eyes. But these under-eye bags are very difficult to get rid of, especially when the face is already puffy.
But gentle ice pack application can really help in reducing the puffiness under the eyes. Ice drains the fluid build-up and tautens the skin to improve its appearance.
Do note that under-eye bagginess is mostly genetics and a condition of aging. Ice may reduce it slightly but it won’t completely remove it.
Brightens the Face
Ice packs constrict the blood vessels under your face, improving blood flow, and even shrinking your pores to make your skin instantly look brighter and smoother. Ice pack also improves your skin texture.
Anti-aging
Regularly icing your skin improves circulation, tightens your skin, and gently exfoliates dead skin cells. Good circulation is key for preventing signs of aging and replenishing your skin naturally.
A Better Gua-Sha
Gua-Sha took the internet by storm in 2019. The basic benefits of gua-sha include face sculpting, reducing fat on the face, and skin rejuvenation. You can enjoy the same benefits by simply icing your face.
If you already have a gua-sha instrument you can put it in the freezer before you use it so that it’s icy cold just like, well, ice.
Helps in Oil Control
Since ice packs can shrink your pores, and the sebaceous glands are present in the pores responsible for secreting oil, people with oily skin can see great benefits of ice packs.
This oil control by ice is achieved without any adverse side effects or damage to your skin barrier.
Improves Acne
The oil control would definitely be beneficial for people with an acne problem. But even for people who have acne, ice can have a great soothing effect on the acne, reducing the swelling and redness on your skin.
Simple and Accessible
One benefit of ice packs that are often not talked about is how simple, cheap, and accessible it is. You do not need any special equipment or ingredients for it to work. All you need is an ice pack.
If you do not have that, then just ice cubes and a thin and soft piece of cloth. So accessible and simple and yet to be beneficial without hardly any side effects.
Coming to the side effects, are there any dangerous effects of facial icing? Let’s look at the potential side effects of ice packs on your face and who should avoid them.
Side-Effects of Facial Icing
While there are not many side effects of putting an ice pack on your face since there are no chemicals or other ingredients involved, some people might experience a few issues.
For example, some people with sensitive skin might notice redness or pain. In any case, stop the facial icing and wash your face with lukewarm water.
But apart from that, there are not many reported side effects of facial icing and it is very safe for everyone.
Things to Avoid
Now that you know the benefits, you should also know the proper way of facial icing. The process is not complicated at all and very easy to do. Just avoid these things:
Do Not Keep the Ice Pack too Long in One Place
When you are icing your face, remember to keep the ice pack moving around in a gentle motion. Do not keep the ice pack in one place for too long as it could lead to skin irritation, redness, pain, and even frostbite!
Do Not Rub Ice or Take Ice Bath
Many people suggest that you throw some ice cubes in a big bowl and just dip your face in it. That is wrong. It is best to avoid direct ice application on your face as it could be too harsh.
Take some ice cubes and wrap them in a piece of soft cloth. Massage your face with it gently. Do not just dip your face in ice.
Keep Massaging
Massaging your face is very important as you are draining out the excess fluid build-up in the lymphatic system.
Massaging not only makes the icing process more efficient, but it also helps the skin in healing, blood flow improvement, and much more.
Gentle around under the eye area
The skin under your eyes is very thin and sensitive. It is better that you be extremely gentle around the eyes and do not overdo the icing process.
Important Note – A study was done to check the efficacy of ice packs in cooling the skin. It was found that ice packs under 0.6 kg were not too efficient. So if you are going to use an ice pack, make sure it is heavier than 0.6 kg
Do It Once a Day
After seeing how simple facial icing is and all the benefits that come with it, you might be tempted to do it more than once a day. But overdoing facial icing can lead to skin issues and damage as well. Once a day is more than enough.
After-care
Since icing exfoliates your skin, you must moisturize afterward. If you follow a dedicated skin-care routine, ice first and then use all other products.
Make sure you don’t use other exfoliators such as scrubs, retinol, and AHAs because you don’t want double exfoliation!
Try to ice in the evening or on a day when you don’t have to step out in the sun. However, if you do ice during the daytime don’t forget your SPF.
Serums that hydrate and improve cell reproduction are your best choice after an ice facial. And remember to take care of your skin.
Also, read the side effects of Dermaplanning and what to keep in mind before getting it done.
