Tags
circulation, Collagen, cryo-booth, cryo-facial, cryotherapy, Hyperpigmentation, Jennifer Aniston, Jessica Alba, Rheumatoid Arthritis, wrinkles
When you hear the term cryotherapy what immediately comes to mind is deep freeze. Traditionally, cryotherapy has been used to treat post-surgery patients or sports injuries. This treatment is now being offered in wellness centers, doctors’ offices and even day spas. Some facilities offer cryo-specific treatments while others offer whole-body treatments.
Cryotherapy was introduced in 1978 by Dr. Toshiba Yamaguchi to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston and Jessica Alba have been reported to use this treatment.
Full body treatments lasts up to 3 minutes inside a cryo-booth in temperatures of -170ºF to -256ºF. Body treatments can cost $25-$65 per session.
Cryo-facials use liquid nitrogen on the face, scalp and neck with temperatures of -150ºF to -240ºF. A session can be 6 to 10 minutes. Cryo-facials are reported to stimulate production of collagen, decrease pore size, improve circulation, repair and brighten hyperpigmentation and approve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A plus for women is this treatment can be performed without having to remove makeup first. The cost can run $45 for one session or in packages of $200 for 5 treatments or $300 for 10 minutes. This treatment does not provide permanent results and requires maintenance sessions.
Safety Concerns:
- During a session in a cryo-booth, a client should never be left unattended because it may cause dizziness.
- Blood pressure should be taken before every whole-body session.
- Gloves and socks should be worn during whole-body sessions to prevent frostbite.
- Women may have a whole-body session in the nude, but not male clients.
- No alcohol consumption before a session because alcohol already constricts blood vessels.
- Clients should not use a sauna, Jacuzzi or consume alcohol for at least six hours following a session. An exercise workout is preferred.
Reference:
The Big Chill. (2016). Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa.