Putting ice on face may reduce puffiness, ease acne, but limit exposure and listen to your skin

There are so many claims on the internet about the benefits of applying ice to your face. From some influencers dunking their entire face each morning into a bowl of ice water, to others who have invested in ice roller for their face, there are many who many swear by the benefits of icing on skin appearance and health.

Claims of the benefits of icing range from a radiant glow on the face, to reducing puffiness and acne, but is there any truth to these claims? While ice has been used for centuries to reduce swelling and relieve pain, its application in skincare might be more nuanced.

Dermatologists and aestheticians often recommend it for various reasons, from minimising puffiness to giving the skin a refreshing glow. However, the scientific community approaches these claims with caution, emphasising the need for more rigorous studies.

Here are all the claims surrounding the benefits of icing your face and what you should consider before giving it a try.

What are the benefits of icing your face?

Icing the face is a popular skincare technique that has been linked to several potential benefits. Here are some of the key claims, according to an article on Healthline.com:

• Reducing inflammation and swelling

Ice is often used to reduce inflammation and puffiness, particularly around the eyes. The cold constricts the blood vessels, helping minimize swelling, whether it’s from a sleepless night or an inflammatory skin condition. The American Academy of Ophthalmology also suggests that you can reduce bags under your eyes by applying a cold compress to the area with mild pressure for 15 to 20 minutes.

Also read | Benefits of ice facial: This DIY skincare routine helps treat acne, tones skin, relieves stress

• Easing acne

Some believe that applying ice to acne-prone skin may reduce redness and swelling, providing temporary relief from painful breakouts. By calming inflamed areas, ice might make blemishes appear less noticeable. This claim is validated by a study on the National Library of Medicine.

• Tightening pores

Icing constricts the blood vessels is your face, which can lessen the appearance of pores and wrinkles and make you look lighter, brighter and more radiant overall. Aesthetician Lori Scarso explains on the Cleveland Clinic website, “Gently icing under the eyes can help release fluid buildup, drain toxins and cause a tightening effect.” The cold temperature can temporarily shrink pores, which could also make your complexion appear more even.

Other claims about enhancing skin glow and reducing oiliness

The Healthline.com article also lists more “purported benefits” of ice application, for instance, in improved blood flow--once the ice is removed, the rush of warm blood back to the skin might give it a more radiant glow. For those with oily skin, ice may help reduce excess oil production. By tightening the skin and pores, it’s believed that ice could limit the amount of oil that’s released, although this effect is temporary.

However, it says that “these claims are only supported by anecdotal evidence. There’s no definitive clinical research indicating that ice facials can address these conditions.”

Also read | Daily skincare routine: Easy home remedies to avoid dull, dry or dehydrated skin any time of the year

How to safely use ice on your face

If you want to try icing your face, it’s important to do so correctly. Here’s a quick guide to follow:

• Wrap the ice: Always wrap ice cubes in a clean cloth or paper towel to avoid direct contact with your skin. Direct application can cause frostbite or irritation.
• Limit exposure: Apply the ice for only a few minutes at a time. Prolonged exposure to cold can damage your skin.
• Listen to your skin: If you notice any discomfort, irritation, or numbness, stop immediately.

Should you try icing your face?

While ice may offer temporary relief for some skin concerns, it's not a long-term solution. For more serious conditions like persistent acne or inflammation, consulting a dermatologist is recommended. However, as a quick pick-me-up, ice can be a useful tool in your skincare routine when used correctly.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.