Skin icing trend sweeps social media: Skin care staple or passing fad? Experts clear up the myths | Health

When it comes to skincare, many trends come and go quickly. One trend that has been making waves lately is skin icing. If you’re an avid social media user, you’ve probably seen beauty influencers rolling slick ice rollers over their faces to the beat of popular music. This method, called facial skin icing, has gained popularity for its benefits. While there is no scientific evidence to back up its effectiveness, anecdotes claim it can help ease acne, reduce puffiness, and ease puffy eyes. Despite the lack of scientific evidence, many people swear by this invigorating and energizing skin care routine. (Read also: Morning glow: Tips for the perfect morning skincare routine, from cleansing to moisturizing )

Renowned celebrity aesthetician and co-founder of BiE, Dignal Workingboxwala shared his views on the rising trend of skin icing with HT Lifestyle and weighed in on whether it’s just a passing fad or will become a staple in your skincare routine.

1. Disruption of natural skin temperature

Our skin is kept at an average temperature. When you apply ice to it, you disrupt the delicate temperature balance on the skin. A sudden drop in skin temperature can cause dryness, redness, and even skin irritation.

2. Damage to the skin barrier

Imagine your skin as a fragile balloon. It acts as a barrier between you and the outside world, protecting your body from external stressors. When you apply ice directly to your face, you seriously damage this natural barrier. This sudden shock of cold further weakens your skin’s already-weakened protective barrier, making your skin much more vulnerable to all kinds of environmental damage and infections.

3. Risk of capillary damage

There are hundreds of capillaries beneath the skin that help with blood circulation. When ice is applied directly to the skin, these capillaries are put under great stress. The sudden temperature difference causes the capillaries to constrict and in some cases feel like they are going to burst, causing the capillaries to burst and leave ugly red marks. In many cases, this damage is irreversible and can lead to long-term skin problems.

4. Worsening of existing skin conditions

For people who already have conditions like rosacea, eczema, or acne, icing the skin can make it worse: the cold temperature can strip the skin of its natural oils and moisture, making it appear dry and flaky.

5. Temporary Effects, Lasting Harm

While icing the skin can have a temporary effect in terms of reducing swelling and inflammation, the benefits are short-lived. The permanent harms outweigh the temporary benefits. Continuously stressing the skin in this way can cause premature aging and increase the risk of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.

6. There are safer alternatives

There are many effective, research-backed ways to achieve glowing skin, and by diligently following a simple, consistent skin care routine, you can achieve healthy, glowing skin.

7. Trust expert advice over trends

Before following any trend, you should always consult a professional skin expert. What works for one person may not work for another. Remember, your skin is original and needs more than just the latest fad.