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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #27183
9 days ago
29

use of ice on face - #27183

Keya

I am super confused about the use of ice on face. Last week, I went to a spa, and they did this ice treatment, which felt great at first! But after that, I’ve been wondering if the use of ice on face is actually a thing or just a fad? I mean, my friend swears by it for her breakouts, claiming it helps calm redness and reduces swelling. I tried it at home, just wrapping some ice in a thin cloth and putting it on my cheeks, but my skin felt a bit... I dunno, tight? Like, I wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not. I’ve also read that the use of ice on face can help with puffiness, which I struggle with in the mornings for sure. But does that mean I should do it every day?? I've seen mixed opinions online; some say the use of ice on face can actually harm your skin if you overdo it. Like, could it make things worse instead of better? Feeling torn here. Is there a right way to do this? Should it be just a few minutes or longer? I’m really curious, cause the use of ice on face is trending but I wanna make sure I’m doing it right without any adverse effects. Would love some clarity from y’all!

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Doctors' responses

Using ice on your face has become a popular trend due to its potential benefits such as reducing puffiness, calming redness and temporarily tightening the skin. When you apply ice, it constricts blood vessels, which can minimize swelling and redness. This is likely why your friend finds it helpful for breakouts. The sensation of tightness you’re experiencing is also common as the cold causes the skin to slightly contract. However, while the technique can be useful, it’s important to use it cautiously to avoid adverse effects. You should always wrap ice in a thin cloth or sponge to prevent direct contact with the skin which can cause irritation or even frostbite if left on for too long, a few minutes at a time is often enough. Generally, using ice for about 1-2 minutes a couple of times a day can be safe for most people, but listen to your skin — if you notice irritation or if it feels uncomfortable, it’s best to reduce the frequency or duration. While it might help with puffiness especially in the mornings, overdoing it might indeed exacerbate skin sensitivity or lead to the overproduction of oils in some cases, particularly if you have oily or sensitive skin type. Applying ice constantly may not be ideal for everyone. To introduce it safely into your routine, maybe try it every other day at first and see how your skin responds. And yes, as with many home treatments, there’s a balance to be maintained. If the reason behind your puffiness or breakouts is related to underlying health issues such as allergies or hormonal changes, addressing those might be more beneficial in the long run.

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