The Truth Behind Ice Baths: Are They Really Beneficial?

One of the most talked-about Scandinavian beauty secrets, the “ice bath,” has made its way to social media, often referred to as a “cold plunge” or “ice bath challenge.” Whether you're struggling to wake up in the morning, looking to recover after a tough workout, or simply wanting to refresh your skin, the ice bath has become one of the coolest beauty trends lately.

If you’ve found yourself wondering, “Should I give it a try?” after seeing it all over TikTok, let’s dive deeper into the trend. It’s more than just filling a tub with ice and sitting in it — there are important tips to follow, and a guide to help you understand if it really works.

Here’s everything you need to know about ice baths — let’s explore!

Cold Water Boosts Skin Energy

Ice baths provide an instant shock to your body, triggering faster blood circulation. The cold constricts your veins, and your body responds by increasing blood flow to restore balance. This natural process creates a tightening effect, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and invigorated.

A Stress-Relieving Challenge

Ice baths are a great way to practice “mind over matter.” Entering cold water requires you to focus on controlling your breathing, which helps release hormones that calm the body.

After a stressful week of exams or a busy day at work, when you feel like you just need to “switch off,” an ice bath can help you escape your overthinking and reset.

Ice Baths Can Ease Muscle Pain

If you’ve worked up a sweat after an intense workout and need to speed up recovery, ice baths can help. The cold reduces inflammation and accelerates the healing process, making it an effective solution for muscle soreness.

Proceed with Caution

While ice baths are popular, they’re not for everyone. If you have heart problems, feel weak, or are particularly sensitive to cold, it’s best to avoid the plunge.

If you’re hesitant to immerse your whole body in ice-cold water, take a cue from Bella Hadid and try submerging your face in a bowl of ice for a few seconds. Alternatively, an ice mask left in the fridge can offer similar benefits.