Cryotherapy is a wellness treatment where you expose your body to subzero temperatures for a short period of time. Wait, freezing yourself on purpose? We know it doesn’t exactly sound like a typical day at the spa, but the benefits tell a different story: think faster muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, and more energy.
Wondering how often you should get cryotherapy and if it’s worth the freeze? We are covering all you need to know about cryotherapy—and you might just be surprised at how quickly you’ll warm up to the idea of it.
What Is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is a professional treatment where your skin is briefly exposed (for two to three minutes) to freezing temperatures as low as -220°C (that’s -364°F). Treatments are usually targeted, but whole-body treatments are also available depending on the concerns being treated.
While this treatment certainly may not scream relaxation, trust us, there is a purpose behind the freeze that delivers worthwhile benefits. During a cryotherapy treatment, your body releases endorphins that act as natural painkillers while contributing to a more positive mood and reduced inflammation. It’s a quick chill with lasting benefits.
Breaking Down the Benefits of Cryotherapy
Now, you might be asking yourself, “How could exposing myself to subzero temperatures be good for me?” Aside from helping you burn up to 500 calories per session, here are the benefits that keep people coming back for more:
Skin Conditions: Cryotherapy at Allure Wellness can target both fine lines and wrinkles.
Muscle Recovery: Think of this treatment like an upgraded ice pack that is able to stimulate the body’s natural healing process to speed up muscle recovery.
Improved Mood and Energy: Through the release of endorphins, treatment may improve mood, as well as reduce stress and anxiety.
Pain Relief: Cryotherapy may help with muscle injuries, joint pain, arthritis, or chronic pain by reducing inflammation and swelling.
Athletic Support: Many athletes choose cryotherapy to feel more physically and mentally prepared to perform their best, and to recover quickly between competitions.
How Often Should You Get Cryotherapy?
How often you should get cryotherapy will depend on your goals and needs. However, for those just getting started, it is recommended to start with one to five cryotherapy sessions a week so that your body can get used to it. In some cases, cryotherapy can be done twice a day, but you should let your body return to normal temperature in between sessions. Here are some recommendations for how often you should get cryotherapy:
- For Pain Relief: Approximately one to five sessions per week may help with faster recovery from joint pain and arthritis.
- For Sports and Muscle Recovery: Three to five sessions per week may help with post-workout soreness and help enhance performance. Those who are recovering from an injury may try one to two sessions daily.
- For Mental Well-Being: One to two sessions a week may help alleviate stress, anxiety, or depression.
- For Skin Conditions: One to two sessions a week can be beneficial depending on the targeted area.
- For General Wellness: One to two sessions a week may help reduce overall inflammation, improve circulation, and increase energy.
How Long To Continue Cryotherapy for Best Results
The key thing to remember with cryotherapy is that the more consistent your treatments are, the quicker you’ll notice lasting benefits. Whether you are using cryotherapy to target pain relief, muscle recovery, inflammation, skin conditions, or your mental well-being, talk to a provider to determine the best plan for your needs. Frequent sessions might be recommended initially, but as your condition improves, you may just need one session a week or even once a month for maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get cryotherapy for optimal results?
Benefits like reduced inflammation or muscle recovery can be felt in as few as two to three sessions. Long-term improvements from conditions like chronic pain or post-injury recoveries may require ongoing treatments until progress is made.
When will I feel the benefits of a cryotherapy treatment?
Many people begin to notice immediate effects as soon as they leave their session. However, most people experience consistent benefits after about 10 sessions.
What factors influence the recommended frequency of cryotherapy?
There are quite a few factors that may determine how often you need to get cryotherapy. This includes your overall health goals, how active you are, how much pain you’re in, how inflamed you are, your stress levels, or what skin conditions you hope to treat.
Is it possible to get cryotherapy too often?
Getting cryotherapy too often can increase the risk of cold burns or skin irritation and possibly overstimulate your nervous system. While you can get cryotherapy multiple times a day, it is recommended to limit it to no more than two sessions daily. Most people experience plenty of benefits with just one to two sessions per week.
What does a cryotherapy session feel like?
During a cryotherapy session, your body will experience an intense coldness that may lead to shivering.
Is cryotherapy the same as an ice bath?
Cryotherapy should not be compared to an ice bath, as an ice bath is usually only between 50-59°F. An ice bath is considered a wet process that lasts up to 15 minutes, while cryotherapy is a dry process that lasts no longer than three minutes.
Is there anyone who should not get cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is not recommended for those who are pregnant, have a pacemaker, or have heart complications.
Should I consult a professional to determine the best cryotherapy routine for me?
Yes, it is always best to consult with a professional to determine how often you should get cryotherapy before starting sessions.
When It Comes to Cryotherapy, Is It Worth the Freeze?
If you’re willing to expose yourself to extremely low temperatures and stay consistent with the treatments, you’ll experience a myriad of benefits from cryotherapy, including reduced inflammation, improved muscle recovery, and increased mental well-being. With cryotherapy, it’s important to find a routine that works for you to support your overall health and wellness goals. Many first-time clients also ask, “How much does cryotherapy cost?”—and pricing often depends on session frequency and treatment type. If you’re ready to cool down with cryotherapy, schedule your appointment today at Allure Laser & Med Spa in Tinley Park, IL. One of our technicians will be with you the entire time, ensuring you are comfortable and cared for while you freeze the day.
