Having oily pores and skin comes with its personal set of challenges—a continuing battle towards breakouts, clogged pores and that persistent, shiny “it’s been a long day” glow that even the perfect powders wrestle to manage. Zits doesn’t simply go away behind pimples—there’s additionally hyperpigmentation, darkish spots and uneven texture, particularly for melanin pores and skin, to cope with. Whereas numerous remedies declare to deal with these points, one buzz-worthy choice has been making waves: cryotherapy. The “cool” remedy guarantees to deal with zits and could possibly be value exploring, particularly for melanin-rich pores and skin.
A couple of weeks in the past, I used to be invited to check cryotherapy on the Equinox Lodge. Though primarily recognized for muscle restoration and ache aid, cryotherapy has just lately gained reputation within the skin-care world. Since I’m no stranger to exercises and chilly plunge baths, I felt assured that this remedy wouldn’t be a lot of a problem for me.
“The extreme cold temperatures also stimulate the production of collagen, which can improve the skin’s appearance by plumping skin and reducing wrinkles,” says Birmingham, AL dermatologist Corey L. Hartman, MD.
Forward, I’m sharing my expertise with cryotherapy, whether or not it helped decrease oil manufacturing and zits, and if it could be value making an attempt for your self.
What’s cryotherapy?
Consider it as chilly remedy in your pores and skin. This remedy entails exposing the pores and skin to extraordinarily low temperatures for a brief interval. “The process typically includes a cryo-facial or localized treatment using a device that emits cold air or liquid nitrogen to target specific areas of the skin,” Dr. Hartman explains. He additionally notes that cryotherapy can enhance general blood circulation and pores and skin look. “The extreme cold temperatures stimulate collagen production, which can enhance the skin’s appearance by plumping it and reducing wrinkles.”
Earlier than the remedy, I had a facial the place the aesthetician used the NuFACE FIX MicroWand ($195) round my lips and eyes. Then, I used to be taken to a room and supplied with a gown, closed-toe slippers, lengthy wool socks, a face masks and mittens to maintain my face, ft and arms heat. Mentally getting ready myself was important, because the remedy temperature can drop beneath -150°F. Dr. Hartman mentions that the chilly temperature helps cut back irritation, enhance circulation and tighten pores.
Throughout the remedy, I stepped into the cryotherapy chamber and was requested to play a track from Spotify. As soon as the aesthetician closed the door, I observed time handed shortly—I didn’t really feel the chilly on most of my physique. I solely felt a light-weight, chilly breeze on my face, but it surely wasn’t a lingering sting. After the session, I stepped onto a vibration plate to heat my physique. All the remedy lasted simply three minutes. Dr. Hartman notes that your pores and skin “might appear red depending on the intensity of the treatment.”
The Outcomes
Within the days following the remedy, I caught to my common skin-care routine. I attempt to restrict myself to only three or 4 merchandise to handle oil manufacturing. To spice up hydration, I added the Novara Magnificence Purifying Cleanser ($48) and Naturium Multi-Peptide Wealthy Cream ($25) to my routine.
The anti-inflammatory advantages and pore-tightening results of cryotherapy are particular perks, and it’s mild sufficient for melanin-rich pores and skin when carried out accurately. That mentioned, outcomes might fluctuate, and consistency is vital. In case you’re uninterested in conventional remedies and interested by what cryotherapy can supply, it’s value giving it a strive.