Benefits of Cryo

Benefits of Cryotherapy

The Basics of Body Fat

We have two types of fat: subcutaneous fat (the kind that may roll over your waistband) and visceral fat (the stuff that lines your organs and is linked to diabetes and heart disease). When we refer to fat, we mean subcutaneous fat, which cryolipolysis targets.

Cryotherapy cools the body by exposing it to subzero temperatures (typically –20° to –110° F) for short sessions of two to four minutes. A few days after treatment, the cooled fat cells die. Over the next several days, weeks, and months, macrophages (part of the immune system’s clean-up crew) digest the dead fat cells and pass them through your lymphatic system. Cold temperatures can reduce inflammation and swelling in the body, much like an ice pack on a swollen ankle. Results can be seen as soon as three weeks, with maximum benefit at around three months. Average fat reduction ranges from about 10% to 25% per round of treatment. Cryotherapy can help lose fat but is not intended for large weight loss. It can treat symptoms related to numerous conditions, boost metabolism, and improve blood circulation. You can benefit from just one session, but it’s most effective when used regularly.

At CRYOLumina, we mostly use Cryo for targeting fat loss, facials, hair restoration, and skin tightening & rejuvenation. Below are some other benefits of cryotherapy, how it targets cellulite, improves skin texture, and the science behind its health benefits.

Benefits of Localized Cryotherapy:

  • Reduces migraine symptoms
  • Cryotherapy can help treat migraines by cooling and numbing nerves in the neck area. 
  • Numbs nerve irritation
  • The cold can actually numb an irritated nerve. 
  • Helps treat mood disorders
  • The ultra-cold temperatures in cryotherapy can cause physiological hormonal responses and includes the release of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and endorphins. 
  • Reduces arthritic pain
  • Localized cryotherapy treatment significantly reduced pain in people with arthritis.           
  • May help treat low-risk tumors
  • Targeted, localized cryotherapy can be used as a cancer treatment. In this context, it’s called “cryosurgery.” It works by freezing cancer cells and surrounding them with ice crystals. 
  • May help prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
  • It’s theorized that whole-body cryotherapy could help prevent Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. 
  • Treats atopic dermatitis and other skin conditions
  • Cryotherapy can improve antioxidant levels in the blood and can simultaneously reduce inflammation.

Cryotherapy for Hair Restoration: A Cold Approach to Hair Growth

Key benefits include:

  1. Hydration and Shine: Seals hair cuticles, locking in moisture, reducing frizz, and adding shine.
  2. Hair Loss Treatment: Effective for alopecia areata, providing essential nutrients for new hair growth.
  3. Increased Blood Flow: Boosts blood flow to hair follicles, promoting growth and reducing inflammation.
  4. Non-Invasive: Simple, non-invasive option for hair health and appearance.

How Does Cryotherapy Work for Hair Restoration?

  • Improved Blood Circulation: Exposure to cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict and then dilate, improving blood flow to the scalp. This increased blood flow can deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles, promoting growth.
  • Reduced Inflammation: Cryotherapy has been shown to reduce inflammation, which can contribute to hair loss. By reducing inflammation, cryotherapy may create a more conducive environment for hair growth.
  • Activation of Stem Cells: Some studies suggest that cold temperatures can activate stem cells in the scalp, which may play a role in hair regeneration.

Cryotherapy offers a promising alternative for addressing hair loss. While more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and long-term benefits, the potential for non-invasive hair restoration makes it an intriguing option. If you’re considering cryotherapy for hair loss, consult with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s right for you.

Risks and Side Effects of Cryotherapy

★★★★★

The most common side effects of any type of cryotherapy are numbness, tingling, redness, and skin irritation. These side effects are almost always temporary. Make an appointment with your doctor if they don’t resolve within 24 hours. You should never use cryotherapy for longer than recommended. For whole body cryotherapy, this would be more than four minutes. If you’re using an ice pack or ice bath at home, never apply ice to the area for more than 20 minutes. Wrap ice packs in a towel to avoid skin damage. Those with diabetes or conditions that affect their nerves should not use cryotherapy, as they may be unable to fully feel its effect, which could lead to further nerve damage.

Tips and Guidelines for Cryotherapy

If you have any conditions you want to treat with cryotherapy, discuss them with the person assisting with or administering your treatment. It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before using any type of therapy. During therapy, move around when possible to keep your blood flowing. We recommend always consulting with a physician prior to any cryo service, especially for any underlying conditions.

Precautions for Cryotherapy with CO2:

  1. Allow Recovery Time: Ensure to have minimum of 48 hours between treatments to same area.
  2. Risks: Cryotherapy treatments can pose risks, including frostbite.
  3. Skin Sensitivity: Start with shorter sessions to test skin reaction.
  4. Hydration: Stay well-hydrated before and after sessions.
  5. Consistency: Follow the recommended treatment schedule, every 3 days to same area.

Contraindications:

  1. Recent Burns: Avoid using cryotherapy on recent burns or open wounds.
  2. Implanted Devices: Consult with your doctor prior to treatment if needed.
  3. Malignant Cancers: Do not use on cancerous lesions.
  4. Hyperthyroidism: Caution advised for hyperthyroidism patients.
  5. Pregnancy: Avoid using on the abdomen during pregnancy.
  6. Epilepsy: Use with caution if you have epilepsy.
  7. Eye Diseases: Avoid using near the eyes with certain conditions.
  8. Photosensitizing Medications: Consult your healthcare provider if on such medications.
  9. Severe Bleeding: Avoid using on areas with severe bleeding.
  10. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Use with caution if you have SLE.

Always consult a healthcare provider before starting cryotherapy, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or concerns.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

By scheduling a cryotherapy treatment, you acknowledge that you have read and understand this disclaimer and that you have disclosed any relevant medical conditions to our staff.