Are you wondering if you should be icing your face before or after applying moisturizer? If so, then you are in the right place! I’m going to share do you ice your face before or after moisturizer.
So you know which part of your skincare routine, should you be icing your face. Plus, explaining the benefits of using ice on your face, so keep on reading to find out more…
What Exactly Is Face Icing?
Face icing, also known as skin icing, is a popular skincare treatment that involves applying ice directly to the skin, particularly on your face.
When you rub ice on your face, you can reap several benefits that contribute to the overall health and appearance of your skin.
Firstly, applying ice to your face can help reduce swelling, puffiness, and tenderness.
This is because the cold temperature facilitates drainage of excess fluids from the lymphatic system, which in turn helps decrease facial puffiness.
As a result, icing the skin can also lessen the appearance of under-eye bags, giving you a fresher and more alert look.
Skin icing also has a cooling and soothing effect on your skin, which can calm any irritation or inflammation.
This helps your skin appear more even-toned and can potentially alleviate mild forms of acne and blemishes and breakouts.
When it comes to icing your face, it’s essential to follow specific steps to maximize the benefits and avoid potential irritation.
Begin by thoroughly cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser. Next, wrap a few ice cubes in a thin, clean cloth or, to keep it dry, put the ice in a Ziploc bag before wrapping it in the cloth.
Proceed to move the ice across your face continuously using circular motions. Be cautious not to leave the ice on one spot for too long, as it can cause cold burns on the skin.
What Are The Benefits Of Skin Icing?
Icing and Inflammation
Icing your face can help in reducing inflammation and redness, especially in conditions like acne or pimples. When you apply ice to your face, it soothes the inflamed areas and minimizes the swelling.
The cold helps to constrict the blood vessels underneath your skin, which can reduce the appearance of inflammation.
Icing and Puffiness
Using ice on your face is also beneficial in reducing puffiness, as it helps to drain excess fluids from the lymphatic system.
Puffiness usually occurs when the blood vessels under your skin dilate or widen. This might happen the morning after you drink alcohol or if you have hay fever or other allergies.
Applying ice to your face can temporarily constrict these blood vessels and lessen the appearance of puffiness and under-eye bags.
Icing and Acne
For those who struggle with acne, icing your face can be a helpful addition to your skincare routine.
The cooling sensation of the ice can calm your irritated skin, and the constriction of blood vessels can reduce redness around pimples. In some cases, icing can help to alleviate some pain associated with acne flare-ups.
Risks and Precautions When You Ice Your Face
Applying ice to your face may provide several benefits, such as reducing swelling, puffiness, and redness. However, there are some risks and precautions that you should be aware of when icing your face.
- Frostbite: If you apply ice directly to your skin, you risk frostbite. To avoid this, always wrap the ice in a cloth or use an ice pack. Never apply ice for more than 15 minutes at a time to prevent skin damage.
- Sensitive skin: If you have sensitive skin, you might experience irritation or discomfort during facial icing. In this case, limit the duration of your icing sessions or avoid this treatment altogether. Consulting with a dermatologist before trying facial icing can also provide you with personalized advice based on your skin type and needs.
- Cryotherapy caution: Although cryotherapy has become a popular treatment in the skincare industry, remember it is a more intense form of cold therapy. Therefore, it’s essential to follow the guidelines provided by a certified professional and always proceed with caution, especially if you’re new to this treatment.
To ensure the best results from facial icing, follow these precautions:
- Cleanse your face: Make sure to thoroughly cleanse your face before icing to maximize the treatment’s effectiveness.
- Ice before moisturizer: Apply ice after cleansing and before applying any other products, such as moisturizer or serums. This will allow the ice to effectively reduce inflammation without disturbing your skin’s natural balance.
- Be gentle: Apply the ice pack gently to your face and avoid pressing too hard on your skin to minimize the risk of irritation or skin damage.
Why Should You Always Use Moisturizer In Your Skincare Routine?
Moisturizers play a key role in maintaining your skin’s health and appearance. They serve several purposes and offer numerous benefits to different skin types.
Moisturizers provide hydration to your skin. They work by reducing water loss through the outer layers of the skin and reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier.
When you apply a moisturizer, it locks in moisture, helping your skin stay hydrated throughout the day.
For those with dry skin, using a moisturizer is essential. It can soothe and provide relief for dry, tight, and flaky skin.
Regularly moisturizing can alleviate feelings of discomfort and prevent further dryness by nurturing the skin’s natural ability to retain moisture.
Oily skin types may be hesitant about using a moisturizer, fearing it will make their skin feel greasier. However, moisturizers can also benefit oily skin.
When your skin lacks moisture, it may overproduce oil to compensate. Choosing a light, oil-free moisturizer can help you strike the right balance and keep your skin looking healthy.
When you’re keeping your skin hydrated, moisturizers can help improve your complexion, giving your skin a healthy glow.
Over time, consistent moisturization can lead to smoother, more supple skin, which can make you look more youthful.
Do You Ice Your Face Before or After Moisturizer?
Generally, it is recommended to ice your face before applying moisturizer. Icing your face helps to reduce swelling, puffiness, and redness, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
It can also help to enhance the penetration of skincare products, such as serums and face oils, by restricting capillaries, which creates a pulling effect on the skin.
For those with sensitive skin, it is best to test how your skin reacts to icing before introducing it into your regular routine.
Start by using ice cubes for a short period and watch for any reactions or irritations that may arise. It’s always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist, particularly if you have any underlying skin conditions or concerns.
After icing your face, you can proceed with applying your moisturizer. This helps lock in hydration and soothe the skin after the ice treatment.
Remember to choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin type, being particularly mindful if you have sensitive skin.
If you have oily skin, you might want to follow up icing with a toner before applying moisturizer.
How Long Should You Ice Your Face?
Generally, a few minutes is enough for a simple facial massage with an ice cube or cold compress. For treating wrinkles, acne, or puffiness around your eyes and pores, 10 to 15 minutes is ideal.
Cold therapy can help improve circulation by stimulating blood flow, which can reduce inflammation.
You can also use ice for topical treatments such as facials and spot treatments like calming an angry pimple.
When using topical skincare products, it’s important to wait 20-30 minutes before applying anything else, so the skin has time to absorb it fully.
Should I Ice My Face Morning Or Night?
Putting ice on your face is a great way to give your skin an instant boost. An ice facial can be done in the morning or night, and both have great benefits.
In the morning, it wakes up your skin by tightening pores and giving you a radiant appearance.
At night before bed, it helps to reduce puffiness from too much salt or alcohol consumption during the day.
Ice your skin for 10-20 seconds to get maximum benefits without damaging delicate tissue and causing redness.
You may need to repeat this process multiple times throughout the day or week depending on how stressed out your skin is feeling.
Summary
Icing your face is a popular skincare treatment that offers several benefits, including reducing inflammation, puffiness, and acne. It can also improve your complexion and provide an overall healthy glow.
When it comes to using ice in your skincare routine, you should always apply it before moisturizer for maximum results.
Remember to be gentle with the ice and limit the duration of each session to 15 minutes tops to prevent skin damage.
Finally, you may choose to perform this treatment in the morning or evening depending on what best suits your needs.
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