The weather these days is just ridiculous. One moment, there’s a downpour and the next minute, we’re being baked by the scorching hot sun. I don’t mind the rain, but the heat is definitely a big NO. Often, during hot days, we find ways to cool ourselves off by having cool drinks, taking a dip in the pool and having ice cream – but there is one more way to help cool things down.
Ice facials, also known as cryotherapy in spas and skincare procedures, promise a slew of skin advantages. While clinical cold treatments are utilized for certain concerns, such as eliminating fat cells or removing spider veins, you can also do an ice facial at home with ice cubes. The ice facial is a popular K-beauty treatment that can help you look younger, fight wrinkles, reduce breakouts, improve blood circulation and make your skin seem healthy and radiant. It’s a fun, easy-to-do facial – but is it safe? We’ve got some tips and tricks to help you get a good – and safe – ice facial right at home.
Is it Good For Your Skin?
If you’re not following beauty trends, you might be wondering if ice actually benefits your skin (or does it give you a cool sensation and nothing more). Turns out, using ice on your skin gives you heaps of benefits, and they’re the same benefits you get from the spa. Here’s what you can expect from an ice facial:
- Reduced inflammation/swelling
- Reduced pore size
- Skin exfoliation
- Soothed blemishes
- Depuffing of under-eye areas
- Reduced oiliness
- A natural glow
- Reduced signs of aging
- Refreshed skin
How To Do the Ice Facial At Home
There are three ways you could do the ice facial: using ice cubes, silicon ice molds and ice globes. If you’re not used to having cold stuff on your face or if you have sensitive skin, don’t worry. You still can try these ice facial techniques out – in a slow manner.
Ice Cubes
You basically use ice cubes that’re right in your refrigerator. But just before you put them on your face, follow this simple routine.
Step 1: To get rid of the oiliness and filth on your face, thoroughly cleanse it with a moderate face cleanser.
Step 2: Wrap a couple of ice cubes in a soft washcloth or other soft fabric that will not irritate your skin. Wet the cloth and apply it to your face as the ice begins to melt. It’s preferable to choose a thin material because the ice will have an easier time penetrating your skin.
Step 3: For 1 or 2 minutes, place the ice pack on various parts of your face. You can also massage your jaw, cheekbones, nose, and forehead with gentle, circular motions. This motion has a ‘lifting’ impact on your face.
Step 4: To complete the routine, apply a toner, moisturizer or your regular skincare products.
Silicon Ice Mold
This device is easier, and more convenient to use and of course, trending. While using ice cubes can numb your fingers, using the silicon mold makes it easier for you to apply ice on your face without having to freeze your fingers.
Step 1: Pour water into the mold and let it freeze. You have to freeze it for a day or a few hours before starting your ice facial.
Step 2: Push the ice from the silicone mold. You don’t have to push the whole thing out. Just a little bit will do.
Step 3: Place the ice on your face and go about in circular motions for 1 to 2 minutes
Step 4: Complete your routine with toner, moisturizer or your regular skincare products.
You can purchase these molds on Shopee and Lazada.
Ice Globes
If you’re active on TikTok or Instagram, we’re pretty sure you’ve seen this amazing tool used by beauty lovers for their facials.
Step 1: Place the ice globes in the refrigerator for a few hours (or until they’re cold enough)
Step 2: Hold the handle and massage the globe part on your face. Massage your cheekbones, jawline, forehead, under eye area and nose in a circular motion.
Step 3: Finish off your facial with your regular skincare routine.
You can check this tool out on Shopee.
Although ice facials are refreshing and cooling for the skin, there are a few things you need to bear in mind. Always make sure your face is clean before you start your facial. I mean, that’s the main thing – to have an efficient facial! Next, when using ice, proceed with caution. Ice can definitely burn your skin if you’re not careful. If you have sensitive skin, avoid using ice directly on your skin, and use a cloth to help with the facial. For acne prone skin, you can apply ice directly on the spot, but not more than a couple of minutes. As for the eye area, don’t rub ice too long, because the capillaries near your eyes are very sensitive and can be harmed if iced for too long.
You can also turn your ice facial into a fun one. Instead of water, you can use other liquids like milk, green tea, coffee and rose water. These liquids give your skin extra benefits. You could also freeze fruits or veggies like lemon and cucumber. So, chill out and have fun doing your ice facial.
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