Testing the Ice Water Face Dunk: A 2-Week Nervous System Experiment
A writer for Vogue, suffering from chronic illness, decided to test the popular wellness trend of dunking one's face in ice water to regulate the nervous system. The practice, which involves submerging the face in cold water for about 15 seconds, is said to stimulate the vagus nerve, triggering a relaxation response. The writer performed this ritual every morning for two weeks, noting that while the first week was challenging, by the second week it became routine and significantly reduced morning stress. The article cites celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Kate Moss, and Bella Hadid as proponents of facial icing for its de-puffing benefits. The writer acknowledges that this method is not a cure-all for chronic stress but can be a useful tool alongside other practices like breathwork. The piece was published on Vogue's website, with insights from British Vogue's beauty and wellness editor, Morgan Fargo.
Key facts
- The writer tested dunking their face in ice water every morning for two weeks.
- The practice is believed to stimulate the vagus nerve, which helps calm the nervous system.
- The writer found that the first week was difficult but the second week became easier.
- The ice water routine reduced morning stress levels significantly.
- Celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Kate Moss, and Bella Hadid endorse facial icing for de-puffing.
- The recommended duration for the face dunk is around 15 seconds.
- The writer notes that this method is not a cure for chronic stress but can be used holistically.
- Morgan Fargo, British Vogue's beauty and wellness editor, suggests keeping a bowl in the freezer for convenience.
Entities
Artists
- Hailey Bieber
- Kate Moss
- Bella Hadid
- Morgan Fargo
Institutions
- Vogue
- British Vogue
Locations
- South London
- United Kingdom