ice rubbing on face - #27736
I am really worried because I’ve been experiencing this weird skin issue lately. A few weeks ago, I started noticing patches of redness on my cheeks, and it felt like my face was puffy, almost like it was sunburned but without the sun exposure. A friend mentioned using ice rubbing on face could help with inflammation, and I thought, well, why not give it a shot? I started gently rubbing ice on face for a few minutes every day. Initially, it seemed to help a bit, but then my skin got super dry and flaky in patches, which is so frustrating! I don’t know if it’s from the ice rubbing on face or if it’s just some strange reaction my skin is having. The other day, I tried to put on my usual moisturizer after the ice rubbing on face, but it just stung. What’s going on? Is there a correct way to do the ice rubbing on face thing? I’ve read mixed things – like some people swear by it while others say it can damage skin if not done right. Am I overdoing it? Should I stop using ice? I feel lost here.
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Doctors' responses
Rubbing ice on your face can indeed offer temporary relief from inflammation, but it’s not without possible drawbacks if not done correctly. Applying ice can cause your skin’s blood vessels to constrict, reducing redness and swelling—however, excessive or improper use might worsen your symptoms. When ice is applied for too long or directly without a cloth barrier, it can lead to irritation or skin damage. This could be contributing to the dryness and flakiness you’re seeing. I would recommend using a thin cloth or towel to wrap the ice, which acts as a buffer between the ice and your skin, reducing the risk of cold burn. Limit the application to about 10 minutes and give your skin a break in between sessions. The stinging sensation you’ve felt when applying moisturizer post-ice rubbing could be due to heightened skin sensitivity from the cold. Consider substituting ice rubbing with cool water compresses for short durations. In terms of skin care, use gentle, hydrating and fragrance-free moisturizers designed for sensitive skin. Avoiding over-exfoliation or products with ingredients like alcohol that can dry out the skin further might also help. If symptoms such as persistent redness, swelling or discomfort continue, it would be wise to consult with a dermatologist. There’s a possibility of underlying skin conditions like rosacea or eczema, where ice might not be the appropriate approach and professional guidance would be needed.
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