Cryo Masks Took 2025 by Storm, But are They Really Worth the Hype?
They’ve been everywhere: clutched in influencer unboxing videos, featured in Vogue’s beauty tracker from August through September, and racked up nearly a million weekly views on TikTok.
Cryo masks, those futuristic-looking devices promising to depuff, refresh, and deliver that elusive “glass skin” glow, have become 2025’s must-have skincare accessory. Search interest has surged over 200% compared to last year, with Google fielding 1.6K average monthly searches as beauty enthusiasts hunt for the next big thing in their routines.
“I’ve had countless patients ask me if they should invest in these devices, and my answer is always the same: it depends on what you’re expecting,” says Dr. Kevin Hayavi, Medical Director and Managing Partner at Beverly Hills Physicians, a premier medical group offering comprehensive beauty and wellness services across Southern California. With years of experience helping patients separate skincare science from marketing spin, he breaks down what cryo masks actually do, what they promise versus what they deliver, and whether they’re worth adding to your regimen.
What Are Cryo Masks and How Do They Work?
Cryo masks are cooling devices designed to be worn on the face, typically targeting the under-eye area and cheeks. The cooling effect can range from gel-based masks stored in the refrigerator to high-tech LED devices with built-in cooling technology, like the Shark CryoGlow that features adjustable chill levels and costs around £300.
“The basic principle is simple: cold therapy causes vasoconstriction, which reduces swelling and gives skin a tighter, more refreshed appearance,” explains Dr. Hayavi. “When you apply cold to the skin, blood vessels temporarily constrict, reducing fluid buildup in the tissues. Some advanced versions incorporate LED light therapy, combining red and blue light wavelengths with cooling technology to target multiple skin concerns at once.”
The Promises vs. The Reality
Walk into any beauty retailer or scroll through skincare TikTok, and you’ll find cryo masks marketed as miracle workers. Claims include dramatically reduced puffiness, elimination of dark circles, tightened pores, improved circulation, and that coveted morning glow. Some premium devices promise anti-ageing benefits and blemish repair through their LED components.
Dr. Hayavi reveals the truth behind these bold claims: “The cooling effect is real, but here’s what most brands won’t tell you: the results are temporary. That tightened, depuffed look you see immediately after use? It fades within a few hours as your skin returns to its normal temperature and circulation resumes.”
Cryo masks can deliver noticeable depuffing, particularly effective for morning under-eye bags or after a late night. For people dealing with fluid retention or mild inflammation, the cooling sensation feels refreshing and provides an immediate tightening effect.
“What frustrates me is seeing people spend hundreds of dollars expecting permanent results,” Dr. Hayavi continues. “Dark circles caused by genetics, pigmentation, or thin skin won’t disappear with cold therapy alone. If your dark circles are structural or related to melanin production, no amount of cooling will fix that. You need targeted treatments like retinoids, vitamin C, or in some cases, cosmetic procedures.”
While LED components in higher-end models may offer additional benefits, Dr. Hayavi points out the timeline most marketing glosses over. “If you’re investing in an LED device, you’re looking at consistent use over weeks or months to see any lasting change in skin texture or blemishes. They require commitment, and even then, the results are gradual.”
The Cost Factor
Budget-friendly gel masks can run anywhere from £10 to £30, requiring nothing more than freezer space. Mid-range options with better materials and design typically cost £50 to £100. Premium LED devices with cooling technology, like the trending Shark CryoGlow, can set you back £300 or more.
“For something that delivers temporary depuffing, that’s a significant investment,” Dr. Hayavi notes. “I see patients all the time who’ve bought these premium devices thinking they’ll replace their entire skincare routine or fix deep-set concerns. The truth is, these masks work best as a quick fix before an event or as part of a morning routine, not as a solution for long-term skin issues.”
Maximising Results If You Try Cryo Masks
If you decide to invest in a cryo mask despite the temporary nature of results, Dr. Hayavi offers guidance on getting the most out of it:
1. Use them in the morning. Your face is naturally puffier after lying down all night, making this the ideal time for cold therapy to show visible results. You’ll see the most dramatic difference when there’s actually fluid retention to address.
2. Apply skincare first. Put on your serum or eye cream before using the mask. “I always tell patients to layer their hydrating products before applying cold therapy,” notes Dr. Hayavi. “The cooling sensation can actually help active ingredients penetrate more effectively while giving you that immediate tightening effect.”
3. Don’t overdo the temperature. Extremely cold temperatures can irritate sensitive skin and even cause broken capillaries in some cases. If you’re using a gel mask from the freezer, wrap it in a thin cloth for the first few minutes to protect delicate facial skin.
4. Be consistent with LED devices. If you’ve invested in a mask with light therapy, use it regularly according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Sporadic use won’t deliver the promised long-term benefits. “These devices require daily or near-daily use for weeks before you see meaningful changes,” Dr. Hayavi explains.
5. Combine with other depuffing techniques. The mask alone isn’t going to solve chronic puffiness. Staying hydrated, limiting salt intake, elevating your head while sleeping, and getting enough rest will amplify whatever results the mask provides. “Think of the cryo mask as one tool in your toolkit, not the entire solution,” he adds.
“The reality is that you can achieve similar depuffing results at home without spending £300 on a device. A cold spoon from the freezer, chilled jade rollers, or even a washcloth soaked in ice water can provide the same temporary cooling benefits. The key word here is temporary.” Dr. Kevin Hayavi says.
“If you’re dealing with persistent puffiness or dark circles, you need to address the root cause, whether that’s sleep quality, allergies, or structural issues. Cryo masks have their place as a feel-good morning ritual or pre-event prep, but they’re not the skin transformation tool that social media makes them out to be.” He concludes.