Ice baths and cold plunges might be one of the latest wellness trends circulating the internet. The biohacking practice is supposed to improve mental alertness, speed up muscle recovery and decrease inflammation. But cold therapy isn’t exactly new – and you don’t need a pool to reap these benefits.
As a practicing plastic and reconstructive surgeon with more than three decades of experience, 111SKIN founder Dr. Yannis Alexandrides recognised the powers of cryotherapy early. In 2016, he launched the UK’s first electrically generated whole body cryo chamber. Inspired by the concept, 111SKIN consecutively adopted cryotherapy in facial treatments and released a range of topical skincare products mimicking the cellular effects of cold therapy on the skin. The result? An energised, awakened and tightened complexion.
Celebrating the staying power and ever-growing popularity of cryotherapy, the latest release within this line is a moisturiser for an on-the-go feeling of hydration, firmness and plumpness. We took this as an opportunity to catch up with Dr. Yannis and learn more about his fascination with cryotherapy, and what customers can come to expect from the new Cryo Revitalising Moisturiser.
Let’s start from the top - can you tell us: what exactly is cryotherapy?
Dr. Yannis: Cryotherapy is the use of controlled, extremely cold temperatures to invigorate body and mind. Often also simply referred to as cold therapy, this can involve ice, cold water, or cold air. The practice of using cold temperatures to improve health, treat injuries, and aid recovery has been around for centuries. You can even trace it back to ancient Greece!
How does cryotherapy work?
Dr. Yannis: Hope you are ready for a small science lesson! Cold therapy stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which is the body’s fight or flight response. Adrenalin and endorphins trigger the metabolism while providing energy, clarity, and positivity. Consecutively, blood vessels constrict, and blood rushes to the body’s core. After the cold exposure, blood vessels dilate and circulation increases, with oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood rushing through the body.
And what are the associated results and benefits?
Dr. Yannis: From reduced inflammation to pain relief, muscle recovery and enhanced athletic performance – there are multiple benefits for the body overall. Your mind will experience greater alertness and clarity, with positive effects also on sleep quality and your immune system.
Applying the principles of cryotherapy during a facial treatment, improved circulation to the skin is achieved, which flushes out toxins, encourages the production of collagen, whilst also de-puffing and sculpting the complexion. This also means that eye bags are diminished, hyperpigmentation is reduced and your face appears firmer, brighter and rejuvenated. It also enhances the absorption of skincare products into the skin, as the post-cold-shock swell of blood flow allows the active ingredients to penetrate deeper into the dermis.
How did you translate the benefits of cryotherapy into topical skincare?
Dr. Yannis: We wanted to create products that have an instant cooling, energising and revitalising effect on the skin. With innovation being at the forefront of 111SKIN, we are leveraging the latest developments in ingredient science and technology to deploy actives effectively. Overall, our cryo-inspired collection targets signs of dehydration, dullness and puffiness.
That sounds incredibly innovative! How does the new Cryo Revitalising Moisturiser work on the skin?
Dr. Yannis: The formula contains Panax Ginseng Root and Jiaogulan Plant Extracts, which boost blood circulation and reduce puffiness. It also contains Polyglutamic Acid, a moisturising peptide that helps to restore skin elasticity and smooth fine lines. Eight types of Hyaluronic Acid deliver long-lasting hydration to the skin. Finally, it is infused with our signature NAC Y2™ complex which works to repair and restore skin health.
When should someone use the Cryo Revitalising Moisturiser?
Dr. Yannis: It’s perfect for a refreshing boost of hydration in the morning, post-workout, or anytime your skin feels tired and dull. It’s compact enough to keep in your bag for on-the-go hydration.
How soon can one expect to see results?
Dr. Yannis: For an extra cooling boost, keep the moisturiser in the fridge. It intensifies the refreshing effect on the skin for even longer. The product also works really well as a base under makeup.
That’s impressive! Any tips or hacks when it comes to application of the Cryo Revitalising Moisturiser?
Dr. Yannis: You’ll notice your skin feels instantly energised and hydrated. In clinical trials, participants observed a 40% increase in skin elasticity and a 47% boost in firmness in just two weeks.
