How to Use Cryo-Facial Tools: I Used These Tips and Had Instantly Glowier Skin

And unlike in-office cryotherapy, which focuses on specific targeted areas, “rollers and globes tend to have smooth and friction-free surfaces or applicators to allow for use on wide swaths of the skin surface, making it more of an all-over superficial treatment that does not penetrate to deeper tissues,” says Dr. Zalka. The good news for all of us: This also means “a nonprofessional can do in the comfort of their own home,” she says.

Immediately after removing your go-to tool from the fridge or freezer, you can “place the product on the skin, usually over a serum or cream (or the applicator is in the form of a gel or silicone mask) to allow a gentle glide of cold on the skin instead of direct freeze on bare skin,” says Dr. Zalka. “The cold, much like you would find from using an ice pack on a wound, can offer a way to reduce inflammation.”

There are plenty of cryo-facial tools out there, but if you’re in a pinch, you can grab an ice cube from the freezer, wrap it in a towel or paper towel, and rub it all over your skin to get a similar effect. Or, to de-puff eyes, you can put a metal spoon in the freezer (30 seconds to a few minutes will do the trick—it’s that fast!) and place it on your undereyes.

What are the benefits of using at-home cryo-facial tools?

There is a plethora of benefits to using at-home cryo-facial tools, which is likely why they’re so popular. “The cold temperatures also temporarily tighten the skin and may even appear to lift the skin,” says Dr. Zalka. However, “this is temporary and as the skin warms up, most, if not all, of those changes are lost.”

As for the most common benefits, “I love these tools for calming the skin and reducing puffiness,” says Smith. According to Dr. Zalka, they can also help temporarily reduce signs of redness and uneven texture on inflamed acne-prone skin, calm skin post-laser or post-peel, de-puff eyes, help soothe sunburn, cool and refresh skin after a hot and humid day, massage serums deeply into the skin, and even just provide relaxation.

Are there any side effects of using at-home cryo-facial tools?

“Overall, the cryotherapy home treatments I am aware of are quite safe,” says Dr. Zalka. However, it’s important to use these tools the right way. “One word of caution is to be careful not to fall asleep while applying cryotherapy, as leaving it in place on a single area for an extended period of time could cause a freeze burn on the skin,” she says. For example, “if you place an ice cube directly on the skin, it will stick and likely cause some localized damage if done for too long.” Side effects may vary by the type of device and how you use it, so following directions provided by the brand is key.