ice cube on face side effects - #27510
I am really curious about the ice cube on face side effects because I’ve been seeing everyone talk about it lately. Like, last week I tried it after a long night of not sleeping and my friend said it helps reduce puffiness. So, I just took an ice cube from the freezer and rubbed it on my face for about 10 mins. At frist it felt super refreshing, but then I noticed some redness on the side of my cheeks. I freaked out a bit, thinking maybe I overdid it or something. What I want to know is, are there actual good benefits from using ice cubes on your face or are there hidden ice cube on face side effects that I should worry about? I mean, do people get like frostbite from using ice cubes too long? I’ve also read some people saying it can help with acne but is that true or just a myth? I am trying to figure it all out cause I want to glow, not get red and puffy. LOL. If anyone has experience with this or any tips on how to avoid terrible ice cube on face side effects please let me know! Thx!
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Doctors' responses
Using an ice cube on your face can indeed have some benefits, such as reducing puffiness and temporarily improving skin circulation, which might give a temporarily refreshed appearance. It’s commonly used for morning puffiness or after crying to reduce swelling. However, there are potential side effects or risks if it’s not done correctly. Redness, like what you experienced, can happen from cold exposure as it constricts blood vessels and then increases blood flow when removed, leading to flushing. To avoid irritation or potential cold burn, it’s best not to apply ice directly to the skin for long periods. Instead, wrap the ice in a thin cloth and limit application to short intervals of around one to two minutes at a time, with breaks in between. Prolonged and direct exposure could theoretically cause frostbite, although it’s unlikely with cautious use. Regarding acne, the anti-inflammatory effects of cold might soothe swelling and redness of inflamed pimples, but it won’t cure acne itself. It’s more of a complementary measure rather than a primary treatment. For acne, it’s advisable to stick to well-researched treatments like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, and consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice. For anyone with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea, using extreme cold can exacerbate symptoms, so proceeding with caution is advisable. In any new skincare routine, monitor your skin’s reaction and adjust based on what doesn’t aggravate your skin.
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