How cryotherapy can benefit your health and well-being

Cryotherapy, an ancient practice recently given a modern update with cutting-edge technology, exposes the body to extremely low temperatures to stimulate a multitude of benefits for both body and mind.

Whether you are trying to revitalize your body post-exercise, relieve chronic pain, or simply add a new ritual to your wellness routine, cryotherapy might be the perfect technique for you.

Vanessa Varlet, sports coach at Novotel Thalassa Le Touquet, agreed to reveal the secrets behind this practice, its health benefits, and how to incorporate it most effectively into your daily routine to maximize its effects.

What is cryotherapy? Defining the concept

Cryotherapy, often perceived as avant-garde in the world of wellness and post-exercise recovery, is in fact rooted in a very simple principle: The use of extreme cold to treat various health problems and promote overall well-being.

The cornerstone of the cryotherapy concept is “thermal shock,” a phenomenon that occurs when the body is exposed to a sudden drop in temperature. This shock triggers a series of physiological reactions, including the contraction of blood vessels, reducing inflammation and pain by restricting blood flow to the affected areas.

Almost immediately afterwards, these same vessels dilate, increasing blood flow and resulting in better oxygenation and an accelerated supply of essential nutrients to the tissues, while also promoting the elimination of metabolic waste products. This reaction not only helps to relieve pain, but also stimulates the metabolism, boosts endorphin production, and strengthens the immune system, which all leads to a general feeling of well-being.

The typical procedure involves exposing the body to temperatures of up to -110°C to -140°C (from -166°F to -220°F) in a cryotherapy chamber. In just a few minutes, this thermal shock helps to improve blood circulation, promoting rapid recovery while helping to simultaneously relax and energize the body.

Cryotherapy for the face or the body? Which one should you choose?

When many people think of cryotherapy, they imagine a large machine enveloping the whole body. But did you know that it can also be used to target the face? Each of these methods offers unique benefits tailored to different needs and wellness goals.

●   Whole-body cryotherapy

Cryotherapy exposes almost the entire body to extremely low temperatures, generally in a cryotherapy chamber.

“The cold stimulates blood circulation, which promotes oxygenation and can help to improve joint stiffness and pain in general,” says Vanessa Varlet.

This effect can be beneficial for athletes or anyone in need of rapid recovery after intense physical effort, or those looking to boost their metabolism.

However, whole-body cryotherapy does have a few drawbacks. The thermal shock – while beneficial – can be very intense for those not accustomed to the cold. There are specific contraindications, such as heart problems and certain skin conditions, which may make this option inappropriate for a select few.

●   Cryotherapy facials

Cryotherapy facials focus solely on the face, exposing the skin to intense cold to stimulate blood circulation and encourage cell regeneration.

“Cryotherapy facials are also suitable for those who have contraindications stopping them experiencing whole-body cryotherapy.”

The treatment targets signs of aging, such as wrinkles and loss of elasticity, and can be a great alternative for those pursuing aesthetic benefits without having a whole-body treatment.

The benefits of cryotherapy facials also include a reduction in acne, eczema, and psoriasis thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects.

What to expect during a cryotherapy session

To guarantee safety and maximize benefits, each cryotherapy session is divided into three main phases: Before, during, and after the therapy.

Before the session

Before the start of a cryotherapy session, there are several steps to follow to ensure the treatment’s safety and effectiveness.

“We start with a questionnaire about any medical contraindications. A blood pressure check is then carried out to ensure that the client is in a suitable condition to withstand the extreme cold.”

It is also recommended to be completely dry and avoid sweating before entering the cryotherapy chamber to prevent the risk of frostbite.

During the session

Once inside the chamber, the cryotherapy session generally lasts between 90 seconds and three minutes. During this time, your body is exposed to extremely low temperatures.

“In the session, the machine rapidly cools the body. We provide gloves and socks to protect the extremities,” says Vanessa Varlet.

To reduce the sensation of cold and make the experience more enjoyable, the therapists talk continuously with the client in the chamber, and never leave them alone.

“We talk to them while they are in the chamber – to distract them from the cold and also to keep a close eye on their reactions.

Staff also encourage light physical activity, such as small steps on the spot, to maintain circulation and generate a little warmth. This approach ensures a safer and more positive experience for the client.

“Clients are often surprised to see how well they can withstand the cold after just a few sessions,” says the sports coach.

After the session

Immediately after stepping out of the chamber, the client is accompanied by the staff and their legs are checked to ensure that there have been no adverse reactions.

A glass of warm water is provided to help restore the body’s water levels. A 15-minute rest period is then recommended in a dedicated relaxation room, where you can relax while your body temperature gradually returns to normal.

The staff remain on hand to discuss the sensations experienced during the session and to provide advice on post-cryotherapy care.

The physical benefits of whole-body cryotherapy

Cryotherapy offers a number of physical benefits, from improving blood circulation to stimulating the metabolism.

Improving venous circulation with cryotherapy

One of the most significant effects of cryotherapy is its impact on blood circulation. Exposure to extreme cold causes initial vasoconstriction – a reduction in the diameter of the blood vessels – followed by vasodilation, during which the blood vessels dilate rapidly.

This process helps to flush stagnant blood from peripheral areas and replace it with fresh, oxygen-rich blood as soon as the body returns to its normal temperature.

“Blood circulation can increase up to 15-fold, promoting better oxygenation of the body.”

This improvement in circulation and oxygenation helps to revitalize muscles and organs, contributing to improved overall health.

Stimulating endorphins and metabolism: An advantage for athletes

Cryotherapy is particularly popular for its role in stimulating the production of endorphins, our “feel-good hormones.” Exposure to intense cold triggers the release of these neurotransmitters, resulting in feelings of euphoria. This endorphin rush can not only improve mood, but also reduce the perception of pain.

Cryotherapy also has a positive impact on our metabolism. In response to the cold, the body has to work harder to maintain its temperature, which speeds up our basal metabolic rate. This increase in metabolism can help burn extra calories.

Treating pain with cryotherapy: Solutions for arthritis and tendinitis

Cryotherapy is renowned for its effectiveness in treating chronic pain, including pain caused by osteoarthritis and tendonitis. Exposure to extreme cold helps to reduce inflammation and numb nerve endings, which can significantly reduce the sensation of pain.

By reducing inflammation around joints and tendons, cryotherapy can improve mobility and quality of life for patients suffering from osteoarthritis or tendonitis. What’s more, this approach can be beneficial for general muscular pain, offering rapid relief post-exercise or in cases of muscular injury.

Cryotherapy and skin health: Fighting acne, eczema, and psoriasis

Cryotherapy is also showing promising results in the treatment of various skin problems such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The cold helps to reduce skin inflammation and can also lower sebum production, which is particularly beneficial in the case of acne.

For eczema and psoriasis, reducing inflammation and promoting blood circulation can help to reduce dryness and flaking of the skin. This treatment not only helps to improve the appearance of the skin but also relieves the itching and discomfort associated with these conditions.

The stimulation of blood circulation encouraged by cryotherapy improves the supply of oxygen and nutrients, promoting skin health and regeneration.

The advantages of cryotherapy for mental health

Cryotherapy does not only have physical benefits; it can also be highly beneficial for the mind. Studies show that cold exposure helps to significantly reduce stress and anxiety, while also improving sleep quality.

Exposure to intense cold stimulates the release of endorphins, our “feel-good hormones” that provide an immediate sensation of relief and calm.

“While cryotherapy promotes physical recovery, it also has numerous psychological benefits, particularly in terms of sleep, anxiety, stress, and depression,” says Vanessa Varlet.

These mental-health benefits, combined with the physical advantages of cryotherapy, make it a comprehensive therapeutic method promoting a balance between body and mind.

Integrating cryotherapy into a wellness routine

Cryotherapy is an integral part of an all-round wellness routine. “The best way is to have several sessions over time. You can technically have a session every four hours, and ideally, one every two or three weeks.” This frequency maximizes the stimulation of the metabolism while optimizing muscle recovery.

Cryotherapy can also be combined with other treatments such as massages and sauna or hammam sessions. This combination can help to relax the muscles more profoundly while boosting the overall feeling of well-being.

Contraindications and safety precautions

Despite its many benefits, cryotherapy is not suited to everyone. Certain conditions, such as heart problems, high blood pressure, asthma, pacemakers, and pregnancy, mean that someone may need to opt for a different treatment or obtain explicit medical authorization before attempting it.

Aside from medical conditions, safety during the session is paramount. “Cryotherapy must be guided by professionals,” says the specialist. Each session must be meticulously supervised to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment, but also and above all the safety of the client. This includes constantly monitoring their reactions to the cold, providing appropriate equipment and accessories to protect sensitive extremities, and maintaining a dialogue to adjust the experience in real time if necessary.

How many sessions are needed, and how often?

The ideal frequency for whole-body cryotherapy sessions depends on your personal health and wellness goals. In general, one session every two or three weeks is recommended to maintain ongoing benefits, such as improved circulation and reduced inflammation.

Interested in trying the experience for yourself? Come and enjoy a cryotherapy session at the Novotel Thalassa Le Touquet**** and discover all the Thalasso treatments available at this establishment as part of a restorative wellness break on the Opal Coast.