Cryosauna – Healing Ice

5 Healing Ice

Cold, in moderation, has a beneficial effect on our bodies. Our ancestors used to take ice baths for rejuvenation, laying the groundwork for what we now know as cryotherapy. Historically, it’s well-documented that Empress Elizabeth bathed her face in ice daily to maintain her freshness, youth, and beauty. The legendary Marquise de Pompadour even kept a container of snow by her bedside at night to ensure she woke up feeling great, with fresh skin and sparkling eyes.

Today, ice therapy is still widely practiced. You’ve likely heard about the miraculous effects of cryosaunas and cryomassage in commercials. But what exactly are they?

A cryosauna operates using medical-grade liquid nitrogen at temperatures between -140 and -150°C (-220 to -238°F). This type of cryosauna resembles a tanning bed. During the procedure, the temperature is set so that only the upper layer of skin cools, without lowering the body’s overall temperature. The cryosauna is spacious enough to accommodate two or even three people at once.

Here’s how it works: initially, the cold causes a sharp constriction of blood vessels, followed by their expansion. This process gives the circulatory system a powerful boost, enhancing metabolic processes and restoring immunity. Cryosaunas have anti-inflammatory, disinfecting, and fever-reducing effects. They help reduce cellulite and acne, combat excess weight and swelling, and positively impact healthy tissue while effectively normalizing the functions of all organs. Cryotherapy is indispensable for conditions like sciatica and similar ailments. It also provides relief for bronchial asthma and helps alleviate stress.

However, cryosaunas are contraindicated for individuals with a fever, infectious or oncological diseases, blood disorders, or during a hypertensive crisis.

As for attire in the cryosauna, the best option for women is a two-piece swimsuit, while men should wear swim trunks. Before the procedure, you’ll be provided with socks and slippers to prevent frostbite on your toes.

Cryomassage is performed using liquid nitrogen—a heavy, colorless liquid with a boiling point of -193 to -200°C (-315 to -328°F) at one atmosphere of pressure. The temperature fluctuations cause blood vessels to constrict and expand, improving circulation and, in turn, nourishing the tissues.

Now, here are a few tips for those looking to rejuvenate their skin at home using ice.

Cosmetic ice can be purchased at any beauty store today. It can quickly refresh your face and tone your muscles. When you rub your face with an ice cube, the skin’s temperature drops, causing blood vessels to constrict. After a short time, the vessels expand, allowing blood to flow more intensely. These processes enhance skin tone and smooth out wrinkles, rejuvenating the skin and giving it a healthy glow and natural blush.

In addition to this simple preventative measure, you can also try the following procedure. Take a soft towel, soak it in hot water, wring it out, and quickly apply it to your face. Hold the compress until the towel cools down, then remove it and gently massage your face with an ice cube, following the lines of your wrinkles. Be careful not to hold the ice in one spot for too long to avoid overcooling the skin. For one massage session, 2-3 ice cubes will be sufficient.

After the massage, you can repeat the hot compress, then rinse your face with cool water, pat it dry, and apply a nourishing cream. This massage will be particularly effective if you prepare the ice from herbal, fruit, or vegetable infusions. It’s also best to use clean, high-quality water for your cosmetic ice. Perform this procedure in the morning to tone and invigorate your skin.