Before the modern wave of beauty tools like ice rollers and cryo masks, women often relied on a simple method for refreshing their skin: dunking their faces in icy water. Recently, this age-old practice has resurfaced, notably with celebrity Kylie Jenner, who shared a TikTok video that highlights her experience diving into a bowl of cold water, as encouraged by her makeup artist, Ariel Tejada. The caption humorously hints at her reluctance, perhaps implying that the icy plunge is a prelude to the glam makeup application she’ll receive—likely ahead of the Golden Globes where her boyfriend, Timothée Chalamet, was being honored.
However, this isn’t just a regular bowl of ice water. Jenner uses a product called the FaceTub, which is designed to not only hold ice water but also comes equipped with a breathing tube. This feature allows users to submerge their faces longer without needing to come up for air—an intriguing idea that Jenner grapples with, as she can barely keep her composure while trying it out. After some initial hesitation and experimentation with the breathing tube, Jenner nervously immerses her face but quickly opts to come back up, her hair plastering against her skin. Despite multiple attempts, her reactions reflect the discomfort a frigid face dunk can bring.
As amusing as this might be, the question arises: is there value in this chilly ritual? Dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara weighs in, noting that while an ice dunk isn’t a magic bullet for skincare, it does have some legitimate benefits. The cold causes vasoconstriction, which briefly diminishes puffiness and redness, making the skin appear firmer—ideal for those moments right before applying makeup. However, it’s crucial to remember that these effects are temporary; cold water can’t provide lasting changes to skin biology or pore size, no matter how refreshing it feels.
While the instant gratification of an icy dip can be appealing, Dr. Gohara cautions against it for individuals with sensitive skin, eczema, or rosacea. Excessive exposure to cold can disrupt the skin barrier or lead to irritation, making this fun TikTok trend less beneficial for some. For those who enjoy the experience, it’s essential to recognize that ice water should serve as a fleeting thrill rather than a substitute for more foundational skincare practices, such as moisturizing and maintaining skin health.
Jenner’s lighthearted attempt at this cooling method expresses a common sentiment shared by many individuals dabbling in beauty trends—something novel and amusing for social media can quickly turn into a passing phase. Indeed, it appears she might be already reevaluating the merits of her icy endeavor after the TikTok post, suggesting that the enduring value of such treatments may not be as compelling as the fleeting moments captured in viral videos.
Ultimately, beauty practices come in waves, from ancient customs to contemporary innovations, and Jenner’s icy antics remind us that trends can often blend nostalgia with modern artistry. As fans have embraced the highs and lows of celebrity beauty routines, it’s essential to discern between what is effective and merely entertaining, always prioritizing long-term skin health above all else.