The Cold: 5 Ways to Make It an Unexpected Beauty Ally
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We don’t really like it; in fact, we even avoid it. And yet, the cold is our friend. Yes, it just takes a bit of getting used to at first, and once you see the results, you’ll want to continue.
The cold holds unexpected benefits for the skin, hair, circulation, and even the radiance of the complexion. In addition to its beauty aspect, the cold also helps combat everyday little troubles like heavy legs and improves the immune system. Ice-cold showers, ice rolling, cold water on the face in the morning… Rituals from the cold are becoming the new beauty and health gestures to adopt, provided you know how to tame them and muster up your courage.
1. Cryotherapy: The big chill for firmness
Originating from Nordic countries and favored by athletes, cryotherapy is now part of beauty routines. The principle? Exposing the body (or face) to extremely low temperatures for a few minutes to stimulate circulation, tone tissues, and boost cellular regeneration.
The beauty benefits:
- Firming of the skin
- Immediate “radiance boost” effect
- Reduction of inflammation and redness
- Natural activation of collagen production
2. Ice-cold showers: A shot of vitality for body and mind
We dread them… until we start to enjoy them. Cold showers instantly awaken the body, tone the skin, and strengthen the immune system. In terms of beauty, they improve skin elasticity and promote microcirculation. How to get started? After your regular (hot) shower, gather your courage and finish with a blast of cold or icy water!
How to do it?
Finish your shower with 30 seconds to 1 minute of cold water, focusing on the legs and arms. The bonus? A true mental clarity post-shower.
3. Ice rolling: The cooling massage that changes everything
The ice roller is the favorite tool for morning routines. Kept in the fridge, it is used on clean, makeup-free skin to awaken the complexion and reduce fatigue in the features. Inspired by Korean techniques, it’s a simple yet ultra-effective gesture. I recommend keeping a gua sha stone or a roller in a clean, airtight box to massage your face in the morning. Guaranteed decongesting effect, and it will also help reduce facial swelling and give a boost after a bad night.
Immediate effects:
- Reduction of bags and dark circles
- Tightening of pores
- Soothing of skin inflammations
- Firming effect and natural “glow”
4. Cold water on the face: The express and free reflex
A simple splash of cold water (or a washcloth run under icy water) can be enough to awaken the complexion. As a bonus, it helps to brighten the complexion and tighten the pores in the blink of an eye. Yes, it stings a little in the morning, but you quickly get used to it, and you might want to do it after coffee or breakfast to be a bit more awake.
When to adopt it?
- In the morning, upon waking (after coffee if you’re like me and caffeine is your morning shot)
- After cleansing
- At the end of your skincare routine, before moisturizing
Slow beauty tip: For an even more soothing effect, add a few drops of floral water (rose or witch hazel) to your cold water.
5. Cold water on the hands to fight anxiety
Dipping your hands into a large bowl of ice water may seem trivial, but this act actually activates the vagus nerve, responsible for calming the nervous system. In moments of stress or anxiety, this sudden contact with the cold helps to slow the heart rate, bring attention back to the body, and create an immediate sense of grounding. A straightforward technique, inspired by somatic therapy, to keep on hand…
So yes, we often complain about the cold… but it could very well become your new best beauty (and wellness) ally. Whether it’s to awaken the skin, enhance your glow, or find inner calm, one thing is certain: it’s worth experiencing a little chill.
Featured image: ©unsplash
