Cryotherapy is the science of exposing the body to sub-zero temperatures in order to stimulate physical and mental health benefits. It reduces inflammation in the body by boosting an anti-inflammatory chemical called norepinephrine and boosts blood circulation throughout the body, which results in a higher metabolic and caloric burn rate. The session also increases the level of endorphins, which can elevate mood and reduce stress. In terms of beauty benefits, cryotherapy increases collagen production, which in turn tightens the skin and brings forth a youthful glow. Full Body Cryotherapy (FBC) is a three-minute session that exposes the entire body to extreme temperatures that feel as low as -220ºF in order to promote recovery, performance, wellness, beauty and weight loss benefits.
You step into the chamber with minimal clothing (slippers, socks, gloves and shorts/top, and optionally a facemask and headband). At -110˚C, the temperature at the surface of your skin drops near freezing. This is the cue for the receptors in the skin (nerve endings) to start sending signals to the central nervous system, immediately activating simultaneous processes in your body. Your blood circulation will improve, and the production of serotonin and endorphins (natural painkillers and feel-good substances) and natural anti-inflammatories will be set into motion. Toxins and metabolism residues are immediately disposed of by the stronger flow of oxygen and nutrient-rich blood. The body scans itself for poorly functioning parts and self-healing begins.
Cryotherapy sessions at ºdegree Wellness are not dangerous as we have state-of-the-art machines that are powered by green energy. These all-electric machines super-cool the cryo chamber safely. Unlike competing cryotherapy chambers that are powered by nitrogen gas, at ºdegree you are free from worry about breathing in potentially hazardous fumes.
A trained operator is present during the session to guide your experience and monitor your comfort.
No, you cannot get a cold from Cryotherapy. In the extreme cold, your body temperature temporarily increases and your immune system is stimulated. In fact, there’s a good chance that you will notice you become much less susceptible to colds in the future as a result of your strengthened immune system.
Yes! The Cryotherapy equipment at ºdegree Wellness ensures your comfort by allowing you to have input on the ”level of cold” that you choose – beginner, intermediate, advanced and pro. As you (and your body) get accustomed to the sessions, you may choose to decrease the temperatures that you are exposed to in order to receive maximum benefits. To get an idea of what it feels like, imagine standing in a swimsuit in front of an open freezer door on a hot day. It is cold, but once you see your results you’ll agree it’s totally worth it!
Full body cryotherapy sessions last just three minutes.
Absolutely. The equipment at ºdegree Wellness has a moveable window on the chamber door. It can be lowered to a level that you are comfortable with. Also, the door in the cryo chamber doesn’t have a latch on it so you can push it open at any time during your session, leaving you in control while in the chamber.
If you are experiencing any discomfort during the session you have total control to stop the session immediately. You can leave the cryotherapy chamber at any time. The doors of the chamber are closed with magnets allowing you to easily open them yourself. For your safety, an operator will always be watching through the large window in the chamber and will ask whether you are feeling OK every 30 seconds to ensure your comfort.
Underwear or loose-fitting shorts, gloves and socks are all that are needed in order to keep your extremities from the cold. We provide the socks and gloves as well as earmuffs for those that want them.
Showering before the session is not necessary; dry skin is actually preferred. During the session your body stays dry, so taking a shower afterwards is not necessary either. You can get dressed immediately following your session.
Yes! And it’s actually recommended. Ten minutes of light effort right after your session stimulates your circulation and promotes a longer-lasting effect following your session.
You’ll likely feel great within an hour of the session. Our clients usually experience a release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevator. This can last for several hours. You may also feel immediate relief from joint and muscle pain, improved energy and increased flexibility that can last for several hours or even days (results vary based on the individual). Many people also report an amazing night’s sleep after their first session.
We generally recommend 2-3 sessions per week for the first month to see results, and then one session every week or two thereafter to maintain the maximum benefits. Every session can be beneficial. One session provides instant relief from inflammation and is good for an energy boost that will last a full day. Seven sessions will help move the body from repair to rehabilitation. Three to six sessions will provide increased energy, send enriched blood to damaged areas of the body and begin to provide joint-pain relief and collagen production.
Cryotherapy Facial FAQs
Cryo facials at ºdegree Wellness work to tighten the pores that appear on your face and in the process, can also tighten the skin. During the session, the surface temperature of your skin will drop to around 7-8 degrees Celsius or 45 degrees Fahrenheit, a process that in some cases increases the production of healthy collagen. The application of the facial takes around 10 minutes and is very comfortable and relaxing (results vary based on the individual).
You may book a one-time facial, but long-term results normally come after multiple sessions. A plan of 10-12 sessions, close together over 6-8 weeks, will accomplish most long-term goals.
Localized Cryotherapy FAQs
Here’s a video that helps explain!
During your session, our trained specialists will apply cryogenically cooled air to specific parts of the body. This cold air penetrates deep into the layers of tissue and increases blood circulation to alleviate pain, inflammation and speed-up recovery from injuries. This session lasts from 5-10 minutes depending on the area being treated.
It all depends on how you feel after your session. You may achieve your desired results after one session or it could take multiple treatments. As a general rule, you should feel some level of relief or improvement in skin’s appearance (depending upon your area of focus) after the initial session.