Words by Lorelle Williams
Most people are now familiar with full body cryotherapy, a procedure that involves standing in a chamber of up to -90C for three minutes (because any longer would literally kill you). It produces an instant surge of endorphins and adrenaline, forcing the body into survival mode, but the health benefits are many.
What fewer people are familiar with is that cryotherapy is now available as a facial. Always keen to try out new and unconventional facial treatments, I arranged an appointment at one of the first and only places to offer it, 111Cryo in Harrods, London.
How does it work?
Unlike full body cryotherapy where clients stand up in a chamber, I laid on a heated bed for the cryo facial and the temperature of the air used was “only” -30C, not -90C. After a deep cleanse the face-freezing began. The nozzle of the cryo machine was hovered a few centimetres above my skin while the aesthetician moved it in circular motions above my neck and face.
What does it feel like?
For me, the facial felt like an ice cube being glided over my face and neck; the longer it lasted the more it stung. On my cheeks, chin, nose and lips the -30C air felt bearable. On my neck, forehead, eyes and temples, however, it gave me a brain freeze and caused my entire body to tense up. That said, the pain did not last long at all and my body reverted to its normal temperature as soon as the air was switched off.
What are the benefits of the cryo facial?
The cryotherapy facial removes the outer dead layer of skin cells and stimulates the new ones underneath them to grow in a more even, smooth distribution. It also removes C02 and air pollution from the skin leaving a brighter, more even complexion.
Afterwards, the aesthetician applied a toner and moisture mask followed by a serum and eye cream to restore any lost moisture during the facial, leaving my skin glowing and porcelain like.
Website: 111cryo.com
