There’s always a silly little trend going around for us beauty geeks. We’ve had peel masks, gua sha and even snail slime (you read that right). This time it’s sculpting your face with ice, a trend that’s been bounding around since 2023. Anything to prevent those wrinkles and dreaded signs of ageing.
This trend comes in many different forms: Ice rollers, frozen gua shas and even just an ice cube if you really wanted to. Job done. It’s price tag is appealing, with being considerably cheaper than previous trends and skincare products.
But is ice the true answer to our worries, or just another trend? It seems too simple: What about spending your entire salary on a small tub of facial oil? Board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of RedliteX, David Johnson, told The Tab exactly what to expect from ice rolling your face.
So, does an ice roller actually do anything to your face?
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It certainly sounds like the key to healthy skin, but are there long-term benefits, or are further “products” needed?
These are the benefits for your skin
David Johnson agrees that the method of ice rolling has its benefits for our skin. He told The Tab: “I’ve witnessed many trends in skin care rise and fall, but the ice roller has remained popular for a reason.
“When the cold surface is applied to your face, your blood vessels contract through the process… This helps reduce puffiness, redness, and inflammation, giving your skin a tighter, more awake look.”
Other benefits he spoke of were reducing inflammation, promoting circulation and allowing for more rapid restoration of the skin.
Even better, David specifically said: “The use of an ice roller is the same, providing an expedient, convenient method for individuals to relieve skin at home.” So head to Amazon and grab that bargain.
David Johnson adds that this method is better than previous forms he has tried throughout his years of practising dermatology. He explained how he had to apply cold treatment after procedures like “laser treatment, microneedling, and chemical cleansing.”
“Many patients develop irritation or swelling following these procedures, and a matter of minutes spent cooling the skin can be very beneficial.”
The possible setbacks
@dr.mamina I find this to be a fun accessory if you’re looking to up your skincare game. It’s optional, but overall beneficial. There is a mixed consensus on it increasing the risk of hyperpigmentation. Melasma can worsen with heat, so I would be cautious in that scenario. @Sam #redlighttherapy #skincare routine #skincaretips #skincarehacks #dermatologist #derm
Before we get ahead of ourselves and bin all other skincare products, it’s important to consider the efficiency of ice rollers skincare routines. David explains that they are best combined with “tried-and-true treatments like red light treatment” for longer-term results.”
He added: “The light enhances cell repair, decreases puffiness, and enhances collagen production, something an ice roller is not capable of handling individually.”
So, is ice the answer to our skincare worries?
David sums up ice rollers for skincare by explaining: “Ice rollers are basic, but they are not insignificant.
“They are not enchantments, but it is an example (that a) little device can truly come through for your day-to-day skin care.”
Featured image via TikTok @breshajeanae