What To Apply On Face After Icing It? Dermat Shares

Facial icing is now a trendy addition to skincare routines. From our favourite Bollywood actors to social media creator, everyone suggest that icing the face first thing in the morning can help reduce puffiness, shrink pores, or ease inflammation. Though this instant cold treatment has advantages, what comes immediately after icing is equally crucial. 

"Using the proper products after icing ensures the skin barrier is healthy and hydrated while maximising the cooling effect," shared our expert Dr Kriti Lohia, Consultant Dermatologist and CEO, Aesthetics Redefined by Cocoona Clinic, Gurgaon. Read ahead to know everything she shared with us.

Why Post-Icing Care Matters

When ice is placed on the skin, it narrows blood vessels, which reduces redness, swelling, and puffiness. Yet, this temporary narrowing also makes the skin's protective barrier more sensitive for a brief time. Hence, experts advise not to put harsh or active ingredients immediately after icing, as it may cause irritation or redness. "Imagine the skin after icing to be calm but fragile, which makes it important to now nourish it, rather than burden it," said Dr Lohia.

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Best Products to Use Following Icing

Here are some dermatologist-approved products that one should put after an ie facial:

1. A Gentle Hydrating Serum

The skin temperature cools down, and pores look tighter, after icing. This is the ideal time to seal in moisture. "Apply a light, hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid or panthenol. These help replenish moisture and keep the skin elastic," advised Dr Lohia. Steer clear of serums with vitamin C, retinol, or exfoliating acids following icing, as they can sting.

2. A Barrier-Repair Moisturiser

After rehydrating, locking it in is essential. An anti-irritant moisturiser that is mild and fragrance-free tightens the skin's barrier. Select one with ceramides, glycerin, or squalane, shared Dr Lohia. "These ingredients calm the skin and oppose transepidermal water loss, which may happen if the skin is exposed after icing," she added.

3. A Calming Mist or Toner (Optional)

If the skin tightens up after icing, a moisturising mist or an alcohol-free toner will bring instant relief. Try out ingredients such as rose water, aloe vera, or cucumber extract. "Steer clear of anything with alcohol or astringents because these will irritate recently cooled skin," said Dr Lohia.

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4. Sunscreen for Daytime Icing

For morning icers, sunscreen is unavoidable. "After icing, the skin is slightly photosensitive. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or greater acts as a barrier to protect the skin against UV radiation and prevent damage to the barrier function," recommended Dr Lohia. Use light, non-comedogenic oils that won't clog pores.

5. Facial Oil (For Dry Skin)

If you have dry or flaky skin, a few drops of facial oil over the moisturiser is a great addition. "Jojoba, argan, or rosehip oils can give a healthy seal on your skincare products, keeping the skin as naturally glowing as possible," highlighted Dr Lohia.

Common Mistakes to Avoid Post-Icing

Additionally, Dr Lohia noted that whole so many are keen on trying this trend, few also tend to make some mistakes. Here’s what she suggested one avoids post icing:

• Missing Moisturier: Icing has a drying effect on the skin's outermost layer temporarily. Failing to apply moisturizer can lead to dullness.
• Applying Active Ingredients Directly: Refrain from using products containing acids, retinol, or vitamin C immediately after icing, as they irritate.
• Over-Icing: Excess icing or direct application of ice without cloth protection may result in frostbite or smashed capillaries.
• Handling or Massaging Too Roughly: Post-icing, the skin is sensitive; products must be applied gently.

Dr Kriti Lohia summarised, "Consistency and gentle care after icing are very important. The proper after-icing skincare preserves skin's balance, facilitates repair, and gives radiance without irritation."

Bottomline

After icing skin requires moisturising and protection, and not actives or irritating ingredients. A mild serum, moisturiser, and sunscreen (if day) will maximise the benefits of icing while being safe.