Cryotherapy has been around for some time. The whole body Cryotherapy is a hypothermic application designed to reduce musculoskeletal pain and is a great anti-inflammatory. The Russians and Norwegians were on to something in their down time when they’d have a sauna then jump into freezing cold water!
Whole body cryotherapy stimulates the nervous system through skin receptors, causing dramatic peripheral vasoconstriction.
The whole body cryotherapy is administered via a Cryosauna. The sauna uses liquid nitrogen to rapidly lower the skin’s top layer to -5 degrees Celsius. The cabin temperature will drop to a range of minus -170 celsius. During a 2-3 minute session of extreme cold, the brain stimulates the body’s organ regulatory function.
A cryo session is very cold but it should not be a painful experience. You can have from 2-4 sessions per week, which is brilliant for aches and pains. Many regular users claim to have an incredible nights sleep following treatment. You should consult your GP if you have any heart issues. Most operators will not allow a session unless you have written confirmation from your doctor if you have any health conditions.
Apart from whole body cryotherapy, you can now consider a cryo facial. This works on the same principal as a whole body treatment but is being hailed as the new anti-ageing, anti-wrinkle face rejuvenation treatment. Move over botox!
The skin on your face is exposed to very low temperatures to promote the production of collagen, which improves skin tone. You can have up to a few sessions per week.
The technician will use a tube which blows cold air over your face for up to 6 and a half minutes. The session begins with cool air, which is reduced to the optimum temperature and passes over all areas of the face. The temperature is regulated so the air is not administered too long in any one zone.
It can feel a little uncomfortable but it is most definitely bearable. I have just completed a four-week course, once weekly and must say my skin is feeling great. The day after a facial treatment they recommend you exfoliate your skin as it may feel dry. Use a very nourishing moisturizer while you are having these sessions.
In Perth, try The Polar Room in Subiaco.
Email chill@thepolarroom.com for further details.