Cryotherapy involves exposing the body or specific areas to extremely cold temperatures for therapeutic purposes. This treatment, whether whole-body or localized, can address various conditions, from muscle recovery to certain skin lesions. Following cryotherapy, the skin temporarily becomes more sensitive, making proper sun protection essential.
Understanding Post-Cryotherapy Skin
Cryotherapy functions by applying extreme cold, often using substances like liquid nitrogen, to freeze and destroy targeted cells or tissue. This process causes a controlled injury to the skin, which then initiates a healing response. Immediately after treatment, the skin may experience redness, swelling, and a sensation similar to sunburn.
The extreme cold initially causes vasoconstriction, a narrowing of blood vessels, to reduce blood flow and conserve body heat. Following cold exposure, the body responds with vasodilation, an increase in blood flow, to return the treated area to normal temperature and deliver healing nutrients. This increased blood flow and the temporary numbing effect from the cold can leave the skin particularly vulnerable, as its natural protective barriers may be temporarily compromised.
Protecting Your Skin From the Sun
Protecting your skin after cryotherapy is important for proper healing. Sun exposure should be avoided for at least six weeks following treatment, especially direct sunbathing or prolonged periods outdoors. During this period, diligent sun protection measures are necessary.
When outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This should be applied generously to all exposed treated areas about 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses, provides an additional layer of defense. Seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours between 10 AM and 4 PM, further reduces exposure. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water also supports the body’s overall healing process.
Consequences of Unprotected Sun Exposure
Failing to protect the skin from the sun after cryotherapy can lead to several negative outcomes. The heightened sensitivity of the treated skin makes it much more susceptible to severe sunburn, which can prolong the healing process and cause discomfort. Unprotected exposure increases the risk of developing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), appearing as dark spots on the treated areas. This discoloration occurs because the inflammation from the cryotherapy, combined with UV exposure, can stimulate melanocytes to produce excess melanin.
While PIH can fade over time, it may persist for several months or even years, especially on certain body areas. In some cases, cryotherapy can also lead to hypopigmentation, where the treated skin becomes lighter than the surrounding area. Beyond pigmentation changes, sun exposure can increase overall skin damage or irritation and potentially slow the healing of any blisters or scabs that formed as a result of the cryotherapy.