You've definitely seen it. Those videos all over TikTok of people bravely submerging their whole face into a bowl filled with water and ice. You might have even heard of celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid and Kate Moss adding this ritual to their routines. So, why exactly are so many people plunging their faces into icy water?

The trend has been coined an 'ice water facial', and there's a reason for it's recent surge in popularity. Braving an ice water facial is said to have a whole host of positives for both your skin and also for your overall wellbeing. Of course, the idea of cold water therapy and its benefits are not new and have been well-documented. But there are some specific reasons why an ice water facial is a particularly valuable practice. And there is plenty of science to support the claims. Here's what you need to know about why an ice water facial does more than just wake you up.

@haileybieberhow I prepped my skin at home ahead of the Met Gala 🪽♬ original sound - ava

Ice water depuffs your face

The main source of the benefits from an ice water facial come from the fact that ice acts as a vasoconstrictor. This means it literally makes your blood vessels constrict, bringing less blood to that area and reducing inflammation and also reducing the appearance of any puffiness caused by swelling. It can also remove puffiness caused by excess fluid as ice promotes lymphatic drainage. In the same way that ice causes blood vessels to constrict, it also causes lymph vessels to constrict. This pushes more fluid through the lymphatic system and allows it to drain.

The process combats your hangover symptoms

In addition to giving your face a depuff, ice water facials can also assist with the mental symptoms of a hangover. If you're feeling groggy and sluggish, giving your complexion an ice bath can help clarity and alertness. Ice water is a shock, it alerts up the nervous system and helps us feel more awake. Short term exposure to cold stimulates the vagus nerve, which is the brain's pathway to mood, heart rate and also importantly, digestion. It means there is evidence that ice water could reduce post-hangover nausea. There's also an endorphin release following exposure to cold water which helps with an overall feeling of wellbeing.

It can help with skin clarity long-term by reducing acne and redness

Another benefit of vasoconstriction is that it can reduce the appearance of redness. Obviously it won't cure the underlying problem if there is one, but an ice water facial will help combat the look of redness on the skin. Plus, if you have acne, an ice water facial will reduce the swelling and help any breakouts appear less inflamed. There is also some evidence to suggest that ice water facials can reduce excessive oiliness and regulate sebum production. When your skin is exposed to ice water, it triggers the production of norepinephrine, and this hormone decreases oil flow. Of course, a regulated oil flow can also assist with smaller pores. All of these benefits ultimately lead to clearer, brighter skin.