Let’s be real—summer isn’t the most welcoming time of the year for our skin. Heat, humidity, and acne are usual tag-alongs. But recently, there’s one beauty trend dominating our Insta feeds and celeb regimes: ice dunking.
From Alia Bhatt applying ice to reduce puffiness to Ananya Panday making it a party ritual, this cold trend is the talk of the town. But does it really work, or is it just another ephemeral fad? We consulted dermatologists to find out.
What Is Ice Dunking, Anyway?
Ice dunking—alternately referred to as an ice water facial—is just what its name implies: dunking your face in a bowl of cold water for a few seconds. It’s essentially cold therapy for your face. The feeling is intense, sure, but lots of people swear it makes your skin look bright and tight immediately.
The Benefits (Yes, There Are Some)
As per Dr Meghana Reddy Endela, Consultant Dermatologist at Zennara Clinics, ice dunking can:
- Increase blood flow
- Decrease inflammation
- Enhance overall skin health
- Even help stabilize your core temperature
Dr Madhuri Agarwal, Dermatologist and Yavana Aesthetics Clinic Founder, says that cold water has anti-inflammatory properties. It calms the irritated, itchy skin and provides a refreshing feel, particularly during summer. It can also temporarily reduce the size of pores and enhance skin tone.
Dr Rashmi Sharma, Director at Kara Dermatology, further states that it can even decrease pores temporarily and diminish redness. That radiance you notice following an ice dip is actual—but temporary.
But Wait—It’s Not for Everyone
Let’s not get it twisted: skincare isn’t a universal fit. Just because it works for your celeb crush doesn’t mean it’s safe for you.
Experts caution that diving in headfirst to this trend can have unintended consequences.
Dr Endela recommends beginners go slow—dip your face for 15 seconds, and then build up slowly to 30 seconds. And always break between plunges. She also cautions that cold water can strip natural oils from skin, leaving you dry and inflamed—particularly if you already have sensitive skin.
Who Should Avoid Ice Dunking?
Before you grab that ice tray, check out this list:
- Sensitive skin types – Can exacerbate irritation and dryness
- Rosacea – Cold temperature can trigger a flare-up
- Severe acne – May calm some inflammation, but can also irritate the lesions
- Broken capillaries – Ice will make them worse
- Circulatory problems – Conditions such as Lupus or Raynaud’s may be triggered by sudden cold exposure
Bottom line: Don’t do it blindly because of the hype. Know your skin and listen to what it needs.
Final Thoughts
Ice dunking may be a cool, speedy fix—especially on a sweltering summer day or before a special occasion. But keep in mind, that glow won’t last, and if your skin is already sensitive or suffers from conditions, it may cause more harm than benefit.
Also Read : Why Sunscreen Is Essential for Aging Prevention: Protect & Preserve Your Skin
