Cryotherapy for Acne

Cryotherapy is a promising solution for acne sufferers who have had limited success with over-the-counter treatments. Dermatologists and other clinicians have long thought that acne was caused by bacteria, but research suggests inflammation is primarily to blame. Cryotherapy uses extremely cold temperatures to treat the inflammation behind acne, which can make pimples less visible. Here, we explore the benefits of cryotherapy for acne and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Cryotherapy Benefits for the Face

Cryotherapy doesn't only reduce the appearance of acne spots. It also has practical applications for anyone who wants to look younger, healthier and more refreshed.

Minimizes the Appearance of Pores

People who have acne often also have enlarged pores. This happens when oil and dirt get into pores, which can stretch and make them look larger than they really are. During a cryotherapy session, a process called vasodilation occurs. Extreme cold causes skin and pores to constrict, but as skin warms, blood vessels dilate and circulation improves. This can temporarily make pores look smaller and give the face a healthy, youthful glow.

Eases Inflammation

During an acne outbreak, the body's immune system activates the inflammation process to ward off bacterial infection. The inflammatory response causes cells to swell, resulting in red and painful pimples. Cryotherapy stimulates blood flow and improves lymphatic drainage, reducing the appearance of pimples and other redness of the face.

Reduces Facial Puffiness

People with acne aren't the only ones who suffer from red, puffy-looking skin. Long nights out, a lack of sleep and indulging in alcohol can make the face look puffy and tired, too. Puffiness happens when lymph fluid in the face becomes stagnant. Cryotherapy stimulates circulation and gets lymph fluids moving again, easing puffiness and giving the face a tight, sculpted look.

Tightens Pores and Skin

Enlarged pores often excrete more oil, which can cause acne outbreaks that many find difficult to treat. Cryotherapy constricts pores and moderates sebum production thanks to the stimulating effect extreme cold has on facial muscles.

Whole Body Cryotherapy for Acne

Many dermatologists use a localized cryotherapy technique that involves applying ice-cold liquid nitrogen directly to the face. Whole body cryotherapy is an alternative method in which patients spend a few minutes in chambers filled with extremely cold nitrogen gas.

Both methods work very well for reducing the appearance of acne, eliminating puffiness, and tightening the skin. But whole body cryotherapy has additional benefits that can make it an appealing option for acne sufferers.

For many people, acne isn't just limited to their face. It can appear on the back, shoulders, chest, and other places on the body. Whole body cryotherapy treats the entire body, not just the face, which means acne sufferers may see results faster compared to localized cryotherapy. Fewer sessions are needed to treat acne, too, which can help individuals save more money over the long run.