*Disclaimer: This is not a paid review. Though the treatment was provided, the review is based on the author’s experience and opinion. Aesthetic Appointment reviews are intended to be for information purposes only and should not be regarded as a replacement for sound medical advice. Always speak to your doctor or skincare therapist if you have any concerns.
I’m no stranger to “cold water” therapy. During the Covid-19 pandemic, I participated in Gilan Gork’s High-Performance Mentality Programme (I enjoyed it so much, and it brought loads of value to my sanity during lockdown). It was a delightful experience, and one of the key daily practices I adopted from the program was turning my shower water cold for the last 30 seconds and eventually building up to one minute. This practice was not only a mental challenge but also offered health benefits like improved circulation and a sense of rejuvenation. Starting this routine during a Johannesburg winter was a real test of my endurance, too, but I didn’t find it that challenging during summer.
Discovering Whole Body Cryotherapy
Since the Cold Shower Circa 2020, I’ve always been intrigued by ice bath therapy but never got around to trying it. So, when I heard about the first electric whole body cryotherapy chamber at Cryo by Coco in Cape Town and their new location in Johannesburg, I was thrilled! Their Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) intrigued me even more because it’s a DRY process, unlike traditional ice baths, and I love some convenience in my busy schedule.
At Cryo by Coco situated in Wellness Lab @ Moove Gym, Melrose Arch, I brought my swimsuit, stepped into the chamber for three minutes, and voilà! If you don’t bring your own swimwear, you can stand in your underwear, or they provide suitable clothing, plus protective gear for your hands, feet, and ears.
The Experience
Upon arrival, I completed a form with my personal and health details because while Cryotherapy is safe, it could be a contraindication for some people (see the FAQs here).
The protective gear, including gloves, socks, Crocs (the first time I’ve donned Crocs!), ear muffs, and a mask, are essential to shield your extremities from the intense cold.
Initially, the extreme cold was a shock to my system. The temperature in the chamber was set to -87°C, and as I breathed in, the icy air made me cough briefly. Although I instinctively hopped around throughout the session, I never felt uncomfortable, in pain, or claustrophobic. The chamber isn’t locked, and your therapist is always there to monitor you. There’s also a visible timer, so you can see how much time is left.
Those three minutes were exhilarating and flew by. When I stepped out, I felt incredible. I swear I could hear colours! For the rest of the day, I was brimming with energy and felt truly alive. And, despite washing my hair and applying makeup that morning, I emerged from the chamber with everything intact, got re-dressed and went straight to a meeting.
A Few Added Benefits of Whole Body Cryotherapy That Are Worth Mentioning…
Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to sub-zero temperatures to stimulate multiple wellness benefits. Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) uses extremely cold dry air, typically between −85°C and −110°C, for three minutes. This therapy is endorsed by professionals in the medical, physical therapy, wellness, chiropractic, athletic training, and holistic medicine fields. WBC stimulates the body’s natural healing abilities through its impact on the circulatory system, energy meridians, and nervous system.
- Therapeutic Applications – Clinical studies have shown that cryotherapy is effective in treating pain and inflammation, as well as conditions like fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. It’s also used postoperatively and for sports injury recovery. Benefits extend to treating skin conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis, as well as general anti-ageing, weight management, and mental health improvement.
- Sports and Exercise Recovery – Cryotherapy helps accelerate the repair process by stimulating blood and lymphatic fluid movement, bringing essential nutrients and oxygen to muscles and tissues. It supports muscle relaxation, reduces inflammation, and enhances muscle building and angular movement.
- Anti-Inflammatory Pain Relief – Cryotherapy reduces muscle tension and full-body inflammation, making it beneficial for inflammatory, degenerative, and soft tissue rheumatic diseases.
- Metabolism and Weight Management – Each session can help burn between 500 and 800 calories by stimulating the body’s metabolic rate.
- Performance and Wellness – Exposure to cold temperatures releases adrenaline and other hormones, boosting energy levels and endurance.
- Skin Disorder Treatment – Cryotherapy is beneficial for conditions such as psoriasis, neurodermatitis, sclerodermatitis, and other inflammatory skin diseases.
- Anti-Ageing – The cold stimulates collagen production, which is essential for keeping skin plump and line-free.
- Stress, Mood, and Anxiety Treatment – Cryotherapy can alleviate anxiety, depression, and mental lethargy.
- Post-Surgery Rehabilitation – It decreases swelling and inflammation post-surgery, providing rehabilitation support.
Final Thoughts
My experience with Cryo by Coco was nothing short of extraordinary. I will definitely be going back! And maybe even drag a friend with me because up to two people can go in the chamber.
For more information or to book your sessions in Cape Town or Johannesburg, visit www.cryobycoco.co.za and follow them on Instagram. Whole Body Cryotherapy might just be the revitalising treatment you need!
Rochelle is the founder and driving force behind Aesthetic Appointment. With a passion for the aesthetics and pro-ageing industry in South Africa, she has been in the aesthetic publishing industry since 2012, dedicated to creating a valuable platform for insights and knowledge, bridging the gap between patients and doctors - delivering reliable, medical-based information. Rochelle firmly believes in the power of a good skincare regimen, especially when started at home, and is committed to educating consumers about the myriad of treatments, procedures, and products available to them.
- Rochelle Friedmanhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/rochelle
- Rochelle Friedmanhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/rochelle
- Rochelle Friedmanhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/rochelle
- Rochelle Friedmanhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/rochelle
