Is Cold Water Cleansing Effective for Skin Elasticity and Swelling in Winter?
With a simple method of finishing cleansing with cold water, improve skin elasticity and reduce swelling. Discover the theoretical background and precautions of the ‘cold water cleansing method,’ which has emerged as a winter home care method.
In winter, the skin tends to become more sensitive than usual. The dryness caused by cold winds and indoor heating pulls at the skin, and you can feel the signs of aging in the changes in your cheeks and jawline you see in the mirror. In this dilemma, the ‘cold water cleansing method’ is being highlighted these days. This simple method, which can be practiced without visiting a skin clinic, is receiving attention because it can provide temporary recovery of elasticity and reduction of swelling.
The Positive Stimulation Cold Water Cleansing Provides to the Skin
The cold water cleansing method involves washing the face with lukewarm water and then finishing with cold water for about 10 seconds. According to the medical perspective, this brief cold stimulus causes the capillaries on the skin surface to rapidly contract and then relax, promoting circulation, which results in smooth oxygen supply and blood flow.
Dermatologists say these microcirculation changes can help improve skin tone, reduce swelling, and enhance elasticity. Especially when you need to make your facial lines look clear in a short time, applying this can provide temporary help.
“The instantaneous vasoconstriction and subsequent re-expansion reaction from cold water increases the flow of oxygen within the skin and is effective in providing temporary vitality.”
During the process of exposure to cold water and then warming up, the skin’s effort to restore temperature leads to increased blood flow, a fact confirmed in numerous dermatology-related papers.
Scientific Explanation of Skin Responses: How Does Cold Water Cleansing Work?
According to a 2021 study in the Journal of Thermal Biology, when the skin is briefly cooled and the temperature recovers, blood flow is observed to increase dramatically. This response is more than just a refreshing feeling and has physiological significance.
Another study published in 2018 in Microvascular Research observed that after the blood vessels on the skin surface contract from cold water and then expand reboundingly, microcirculation is strengthened, leading to temporary skin vitality restoration. These research findings show that cold water cleansing is not merely a folk remedy but a skincare method with some scientific basis.
However, it is crucial not to overlook that these effects are only temporary. To maintain long-term skin elasticity, comprehensive care including routine improvement, moisturizing, and sun protection should be implemented for genuine benefits.
Is Cold Water Cleansing Safe for Everyone?
There’s no guarantee that cold water cleansing is beneficial for everyone. Especially if the skin is sensitive or the capillaries are so weak that they are noticeable, caution is advised. Without caution, the physical stimulus of cold water might aggravate skin redness or irritation.
“For those with weak capillaries or existing skin conditions like atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, cold exposure might have adverse effects, so it is recommended to consult a specialist before trying it.”
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) also urges caution in their guidelines for sensitive skin, emphasizing that ‘excessive temperature changes are irritants.’ Accordingly, if cold water cleansing is necessary, it is safer to first cleanse with lukewarm water around 30-34℃ and apply cold water cleansing simply for about 10-15 seconds in the final stage.
Essential Moisturizing Steps Following Cold Water Cleansing
While cold water cleansing can boost elasticity and vitality, it is not sufficient for complete skincare. Immediately after cleansing, it is crucial to use products rich in moisturizing ingredients to ensure immediate moisture supply and restoration of the skin barrier. It is recommended to use moisturizers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
Moreover, in winter when indoor heating leads to naturally lowered humidity, skin dryness can escalate. During such times, it is important to use a humidifier or maintain indoor humidity at 40-60% to minimize skin moisture loss. Despite how effective a cleansing method may be, accompanying moisturization is essential for genuinely benefiting skin health.
Essential Skincare Principles Alongside Cold Water Cleansing
Basic skincare remains the crux of skin health. While cold water cleansing can undoubtedly provide vitality to the skin, the fundamental principles not to be overlooked in daily life include:
- Thoroughly applying sunscreen
- Avoiding excessive scrubbing or vigorous rubbing
- Maintaining internal moisture balance with adequate water intake
- Keeping regular lifestyle habits
Maintaining the skin stably based on these lifestyle habits is the key to preserving healthy and vibrant skin in the long term. Remember, cold water cleansing is merely a useful option to add on this foundation and cannot solve all skin worries by itself.
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