Ice water has become increasingly popular in recent years. From Europe to Asia, many have adopted it as part of their beauty and wellness routines. Let’s take a closer look at how to use ice water as your next beauty secret

In recent years, the ice water facial has appeared frequently in fashion and beauty conversations. Yet, it is not simply because it is eye-catching, but because it responds directly to the immediate needs created by intense work schedules and lack of sleep. In the reality series I Am Georgina, Georgina Rodriguez shared her habit of immersing her face in a bowl of ice water while travelling, using the most direct method to tighten the skin and reduce puffiness. While the action appears simple, it works by using cold temperatures to constrict blood vessels, followed by re-warming that stimulates circulation, allowing facial contours to quickly return to an alert, refreshed state.

A similar practice is part of BlackPink Jennie’s routine. In her vlogs, she has shown how she soaks her face in ice water in the morning to quickly reduce mild swelling and restore definition. In professional pre-make-up routines, her make-up artist also immerses their hands in ice water before performing facial massage, helping the skin settle into its most stable condition before make-up is applied.

Jennie has taken the use of cold temperatures further, extending it to the whole body. She has shared that after high-intensity work or performances, she takes ice baths as part of her recovery and stress-release process. The sudden stimulation brought on by cold temperatures draws attention back to the body itself; muscle tension eases and fatigue is sharply interrupted. In this sense, cold-water immersion functions more as a form of mind–body management than a purely aesthetic practice.

How to tell if ice-water facial cleansing is suitable for you

From a skin-condition perspective, ice-water cleansing is best suited to those who wake up with facial puffiness, have sallow skin tones, stayed up late the night before, or experienced poor sleep quality. Cold temperatures temporarily constrict blood vessels, helping facial lines appear more defined and stabilising the skin before make-up.

However, if you have sensitive skin, rosacea, frequent redness or visible capillaries, ice water may cause irritation and worsen redness. Even if you wish to try it, full facial immersion is not recommended; instead, use a cool towel for gentle compresses or apply cold to specific areas for a milder approach.

The correct way to use ice water on the face

An ice-water facial does not need to be complicated. Prepare a bowl of room-temperature water and add a small amount of ice. The water should feel cool, not painfully cold. Gently immerse your face for 10–15 seconds, repeating once or twice. The key is keeping it short and effective. Afterwards, dry your face immediately and apply moisturiser, avoiding prolonged exposure to low temperatures.

This method is better treated as an emergency fix for specific situations, rather than a daily morning and evening routine.

Who are ice baths suitable for

Ice baths have a higher threshold and are better suited to those in good physical health, with high activity levels or long-term exposure to stress. For some people, cold immersion effectively relieves muscle fatigue and helps regulate mood, which is why many performers use it after shows.

That said, if you have cardiovascular conditions, low blood pressure, a weakened immune system, or a strong sensitivity to cold, ice baths are not recommended. Physical responses should always take priority over trends.

A safe way to begin ice baths

There is no need to start with full-body immersion. Begin by rinsing your limbs or lower body with cold water for 30 seconds to one minute, carefully observing your body’s reaction. Once adapted, gradually increase the duration, but it is generally advised to keep the total time within two to three minutes. If you experience dizziness, palpitations or discomfort at any point, stop immediately.

Also see: #legendxmas2025giveaway: 5 rejuvenating facials at BMF (HK$4,800 value each)