Most people use ice rollers to get that fresh, de-puffed, and 'flawless' glow. They have become a skincare staple due to their wide-ranging benefits, such as minimising pores, calming redness, and reducing inflammation. But did you know misusing this product can lead to ice roller burns, a skincare mishap that you aren't ready for?
What Is an Ice Roller Burn?
An ice roller occurs when your skin is exposed to cold temperature for a long time, leading to damage similar to sunburn but from cold instead of heat. Symptoms may include redness, stinging, numbness, or blisters in severe cases. Also known as cold burn or frostnip, it signals that your skin has had too much cold treatment!
Why Ice Rollers Can Be Risky
Ice rollers are popular for their benefits like reducing puffiness and redness, but they can be risky if misused. Here are some things to watch out for:
- Using directly from the freezer: If your roller is frozen solid, it can be too cold to use on your skin right away.
- Prolonged exposure: Keeping the roller in one area for too long can numb your skin and lead to damage.
- Sensitive skin: If you have conditions like rosacea or eczema, you might be more vulnerable to ice roller burns.
Symptoms of an Ice Roller Burn
- Red or blotchy skin that doesn’t fade quickly
- A burning or tingling sensation even hours later
- Dry or flaky patches on your skin
- Mild swelling or even blisters in rare cases
- If any of these symptoms last longer than a few hours, you may have irritated or burned your skin.
Visit your doctor immediately if you notice these symptoms:
- Your skin is very pale or white, feeling cold and as hard as a rock to the touch.
- Even as it warms up, your skin stays numb, without any burning or tingling sensations.
- It retains its pale appearance and fails to return to its normal colour.
How to Treat Ice Roller Burn
If you’ve accidentally damaged your skin with an ice roller, don’t panic. Treat it like you would a mild burn:
- Stop using the roller immediately and give your skin time to recover.
- Apply a soothing cream to help your skin heal.
- Avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants for about a week.
- Use mild cleansers and moisturisers to support skin recovery.
- If you experience itching or swelling, consider taking medications.
- If things worsen or blisters appear, consult a dermatologist.
Tips for Safely Cooling Your Skin
- Keep It Cool, Not Frozen: Store your roller in the fridge at about 4–8°C (40–46°F). If it’s been in the freezer, wrap it in a thin towel or let it sit out for a bit before use.
- Limit Time on Skin: Roll for no more than 30 seconds on each area, and don’t press too hard. Massage it on your skin with gentle strokes.
- Always Prep the Skin: Make sure your skin is slightly damp or has a thin layer of serum or moisturiser before using the roller. This acts as a protective buffer between your skin and the cold.
- Know Your Skin Type: If your skin is sensitive, skip the ice roller and try something cooler, like jade rollers or refrigerated sheet masks with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]