What to Know About a Cryotherapy Facial

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Author Name: Mia Barnes
Date: Friday February 3, 2023

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People have become exceedingly more interested in prioritizing their skin. Rather than using makeup to cover areas of insecurities, a large majority of people are turning to skincare treatments, like a cryotherapy facial.

When you think of a facial, you may think of a traditional relaxing day with face oils and exfoliants. Facials usually consist of products applied to and absorbed by the skin, but a cryotherapy facial is neither of those things. Here’s what you need to know about cryotherapy facials.

What Is A Cryotherapy Facial? 

A cryotherapy facial is nothing like your typical self-care routine at home or in a salon. It involves having liquid nitrogen applied all over your face for two to three minutes. Traditionally, it has been used to rehab muscles and increases circulation in athletes.

The process uses vapors that reach low temperatures between -200 and -300° Fahrenheit. It’s supposedly for relieving pain, assisting in injury recovery or treating conditions like migraines or arthritis. Cryotherapy aims to tighten pores, brighten skin and reduce the appearance of age spots or fine lines in an impressive time of fifteen minutes.

What Is the Cost?

The price range will be different depending on where you get your facial done. They are usually anywhere between $40 to $150 depending on the salon and experience level of who is giving the treatment. When getting a cryo facial, it’s best to consider paying a higher price from someone more knowledgeable rather than risk going somewhere less qualified for a cheap price.

Benefits of Cryo Facial

During a cryo facial, the intense cold temperatures cause your blood vessels to contract and tighten your pores. It’s similar to putting ice on your face, but a more intense version. The blood vessels dilate quickly and increase blood flow and oxygen.

The increase in blood flow can cause benefits such as:

  • Glowing and vibrant skin
  • Plump lips
  • Less swollen face 
  • Reduced acne

What to Expect 

When you arrive for your appointment, the technician will talk you through several steps. First, you will have your face cleansed and may get a short massage to promote lymphatic drainage before the actual treatment.

They will ask you to remove your jewelry and provide you with goggles to protect your eyes. Once the treatment starts, you’ll feel the liquid nitrogen hit on your face from a hose, similar to how it feels when your skin is in a freezer.

Some report the sensation as relaxing. If cold isn’t your cup of tea, you may not feel that way, but it shouldn’t be unbearable. After those three minutes, they’ll apply moisturizer to your face and then you’re done.

Potential Risks

Like most treatments, there are always potential risks and side effects. Although uncommon, some things to consider are:

  • Ice burn or frostbite
  • Numbness or tingling of the face
  • Skin discoloration

After Care

One of the benefits of the cryo facial is it has little downtime. You’ll be able to leave the aesthetician’s office and continue your normal activities right away. The result will show immediately, so you can show off your new and improved skin.

The results last a few weeks at a time. Consider booking appointments every three to five weeks for longer-lasting results. Your skin’s texture and firmness will increase the more often you go.

Try Cryotherapy Facials

To see the benefits of a cryotherapy facial, try one yourself. It’s best to book with a reliable, licensed aesthetician. You can make a consultation appointment before sealing the deal to check out the office and see if it is right for you.

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