Turns out, time passes. Cryotherapy is touted as a miracle cure that keeps skin looking younger, by reducing inflammation, boosting collagen production and encouraging skin regeneration. If you’re not yet on board with embracing those fine lines (laughter lines we say), here’s what’s involved.
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1 The blast of icy air makes you glow
If you've ever enticed yourself out of a warm sofa to go for a bracing run in the wind or snow, well firstly, we salute you. And if you've caught a glimpse of your reflection post-run, you'll know the kind of glow we're talking about. When your skin is exposed to chilly temperatures the blood vessels tighten, then flush with fresh blood as you warm back up giving you a youthful je ne sais quoi.
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2 It also reduces inflammation
According to one study, cryotherapy can boost the level of anti-inflammatories in your body. These microscopic superheroes fight off inflammation, your skin's number one enemy. Inflammation isn't just about swelling: it's also one of the major culprits behind signs of ageing like wrinkles and sagging, as well as skin issues like acne and rosacea.
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3 It can stimulate collagen production too
Ah collagen, the superstar behind skin elasticity. Some say cryotherapy encourages your body to produce more of it. The theory goes that being exposed to extremely cold temperatures sends your body into survival mode. When you step out of the chamber, the rush of fresh blood revives your functions – including the ones that produce collagen. This brand new collagen supply then leaves skin looking much more absent of any fine lines than it was 30 minutes ago.
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4 What's the verdict?
While the scientific jury's currently out on whether or not cryotherapy truly is the fountain of youth, those who've tried it love it. And as far as we're concerned, if there's a guilt-free alternative to going running in chilly winds, it's worth investigating.
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FAQs
What is cryotherapy and how does it help your skin?
Cryotherapy exposes your skin to extremely cold temperatures, which can help reduce inflammation and promote a healthy glow. This process tightens your blood vessels and then increases fresh blood flow as you warm up, giving your skin a youthful appearance.
How does cryotherapy make your skin look more youthful?
Cryotherapy boosts collagen production and encourages skin regeneration for a fresher look. The treatment helps your body produce more collagen after exposure to cold, reducing the appearance of fine lines in as little as 30 minutes.
Can cryotherapy help reduce inflammation and skin problems?
Yes, cryotherapy increases anti-inflammatories in your body, which fight off inflammation. Inflammation is linked to signs of ageing like wrinkles and sagging, as well as skin issues such as acne and rosacea.
What does your skin feel like after a cryotherapy session?
Your skin typically feels refreshed with a noticeable glow after a blast of icy air. The tightening of blood vessels followed by a rush of oxygenated blood creates a vibrant, youthful look similar to your glow after exercising in cold weather.
Is there scientific proof that cryotherapy is the fountain of youth?
Current scientific evidence is still inconclusive about cryotherapy as a guaranteed anti-ageing solution. However, many people find the treatment enjoyable and see noticeable benefits in their skin’s look and feel.