I didn’t realize the power of a simple ice cube until I discovered [linkbuilder id=”6632″ text=”skin icing”]. I knew ice cubes were great for keeping drinks cold and reducing swelling, but I was skeptical about rubbing one on my face.
A few years ago, I took an icy plunge and tried skin icing for myself. Yes, it is very cold and a little messy. It also gave my skin that natural glow I usually only get when it’s freezing outside. I have now made skin icing part of my regular beauty routine, and I can’t believe how much my complexion has changed.
Complexion-Changing Benefits
I honestly didn’t believe ice could change my skin, but I was wrong.
One of the first things I noticed was my new rosy glow, thanks to improved circulation. It took me a few weeks to realize just how much my skin’s health had improved. My tone was more even, and my combination skin started to become more normal. I had a healthy glow all day instead of my usual pale face that I tried to cover with bronzer.
Some of my other favorite results include:
– Reduced puffiness around the eyes
– Reduced redness and swelling of pimples
– Diminished appearance of wrinkles
– Tighter pores
Learning The Basics
Now that you know the benefits of skin icing, let me tell you how to do it.
I love this beauty technique for two main reasons. First, it’s free, and ice is simple to make. Second, it’s insanely easy.
I recommend starting with five minutes a day to get used to the cold on your skin. Have an extra towel on hand to catch any dripping water from the melting ice. As I said, it can be a bit messy, but it’s well worth it.
Ordinarily I use a thin towel or worn-out washcloth to hold my ice cube, but some people prefer to apply the ice directly to their skin. If you go this route you’ll still need something to protect your fingers.
(As a quick warning, I don’t recommend applying ice straight from the freezer to bare skin because it can break your capillaries. Let the ice start to melt first. If you already have capillary issues, skin icing might not be a good idea. If you do try it, always cover the cube and don’t do it for more than five minutes at a time.)
I like to wrap my cube completely, and once it starts to melt slightly I rub it in a circular motion all over my face for up to 15 minutes at a time. I’m typically in a hurry, though, so it’s usually more like five minutes.
If I have time, I spritz my cloth or my face with organic green tea or rosewater first. Feel free to use whatever herb you prefer.
That’s all there is to it. See, I told you it was easy!
Best Times To Ice
There’s really not a bad time to ice your skin. I prefer mornings because the ice tightens my pores and primes my skin for makeup. My foundation has never gone on so smoothly. But it’s just as beneficial to do it in the evenings.
I also like to ice pimples as they appear. I hold a cube against the pimple for up to 15 seconds, which reduces swelling and helps keep the pimple from getting any worse.
Skin icing is best if you just do it once a day. I only do it twice a day if I’m having a breakout; then I do a quick session on my pimples in the evening.
Simple, Free, And Effective
Skin icing is the simplest DIY beauty hack I’ve ever tried. You only need one ingredient, and it works wonders. Go ahead and cleanse your face and give icing a try. A little cold skin could be just what your complexion needs.