Ice packs can also help with under-eye bags. [4] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source Skin icing constricts the blood vessels in your face, which helps your pores look smaller. However, these pore-shrinking effects won’t last after you take the ice off your skin. [5] X Research source
Washing your face ahead of time helps your ice facial be more effective. [10] X Research source
If you don’t have dry skin, ice your skin before applying any products (like moisturizer). The cold temperature of the ice damages your skin barrier a little bit, which helps your skincare products soak into your skin more deeply. [12] X Research source
Always clean out your ice cube tray before using it for facial icing. Swap out traditional ice cubes with frozen aloe vera gel, rose hydrosol, green tea, or cucumber water to make your ice treatment extra nourishing. Be sure to go over your cheeks, chin, jawline, forehead, lips, and nose.
Have under-eye bags? Grab an ice pack and rest it directly on top of the skin. Leave the pack in place for a few minutes before lifting it off. [16] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source Never keep ice on your skin for extended periods of time—this can lead to redness and irritation (and in severe cases, frostbite). [17] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Tip: Developing a good skincare routine, applying sunscreen regularly, and getting a chemical peel are all expert-approved ways to make your pores look smaller. [20] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Tip: Look for skincare products with retinoids, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), hydroxy acids (like AHAs), peptides, and/or coenzyme Q10 to help reduce your wrinkles. [23] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Skin icing also isn’t the best option if you have rosacea, since cold temperatures sometimes lead to flare-ups. [25] X Research source Avoid skin icing if you’ve just had a professional facial treatment, too (like a chemical peel). Instead, let your skin heal up on its own. [26] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Good skincare habits are the best, most foolproof way to keep your skin looking vibrant and beautiful. Choosing the right skincare products, cleansing your face regularly, and applying sunscreen consistently are all invaluable ways to keep your skin looking great. [28] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source