Face icing, a popular beauty ritual that originated in South Korea in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, has now become a global skincare trend.
Initially embraced by South Korean women for its rejuvenating effects, the practice has since spread to spas and treatment centers across the West, promising a range of skincare benefits.
The basic idea is simple: expose your skin to extremely cold temperatures for a few minutes to achieve a variety of skincare results, from reducing puffiness and eye bags to potentially diminishing wrinkles and fat cells.
What Are the Benefits of Face Icing?
Face icing has gained popularity not just in spas but also among those practicing it at home. Mark Poole, managing director and founder of the skincare brand Bare Addiction, explains,
“Face icing can help tighten the skin, which may reduce the appearance of wrinkles, decrease oiliness, and provide a soothing effect on acne by constricting blood vessels.”
Consultant dermatologist Dr. Mia Jing Gao adds that face icing can also help with puffy eyes, swelling, redness, and bruising.
“In some cases, it can even provide relief from itching and discomfort,” she notes. However, she cautions that while face icing offers short-term benefits, it is not a cure or long-term solution for skin concerns.
The effects of face icing tend to wear off within hours, and despite some claims, it cannot reverse the aging process, minimize pore sizes, or treat chronic skin conditions like pigmentation.
A 2021 study published in the World Journal of Clinical Cases echoes this sentiment, pointing out that many of the touted benefits of face icing. The study even suggests that prolonged use of ice could delay healing and lengthen recovery times, which is not ideal for anyone seeking effective skincare.
Who Should Avoid Face Icing?
Despite its popularity, face icing is not suitable for everyone.
Teresa Tarmey, a facialist and skincare expert for Dior, advises that individuals with very sensitive or fragile skin should steer clear of face icing. “If you have low tolerance skin, face icing can cause redness, itchiness, and irritation—essentially the opposite of what you’re aiming for,” she says.
Dr. Gao also advises those with sensitive, eczema-prone skin to avoid face icing, as it can exacerbate eczema. Additionally, individuals with cardiovascular issues, diabetes, or peripheral vascular diseases—conditions that can impair circulation—should consult a healthcare professional before trying face icing.
Are There Any Side Effects to Face Icing?
While generally considered safe, face icing can have potential side effects.
Diane Ackers, a licensed aesthetician and skin expert for Doctors Formula, notes that face icing can cause redness and irritation, particularly in those with sensitive skin. In rare cases, it can lead to more severe issues like skin tingling, numbness, or even frostbite.
To prevent these adverse effects, Tarmey suggests washing your face before icing and applying a serum as a barrier between the ice and your skin. This not only protects your face but also your hands. When icing, gently rub the ice in a circular motion around your forehead, nose, cheeks, mouth, jaw, and chin.
How Often Should You Ice Your Face?
The frequency of face icing depends on your skin’s tolerance and the specific benefits you’re seeking.
Poole advises that face icing can be done one to two times a day for a few minutes at a time. “Consistent yet moderate use is key to ensuring that your skin does not become irritated or adversely affected by the practice,” he says.
For those concerned about potential damage, Ackers suggests investing in advanced tools like ice globes, derma rollers, or cryo sticks to elevate the experience. These tools can enhance the benefits of face icing, but she emphasizes the importance of cleaning them thoroughly after each use.