Cryotherapy. A treatment used since the 17th century, this is far from a new-age, quick fix. Simply, the concept is to blast the body with cold dry air (around −100 °C) for between 2 and 4 minutes. The effects?
Well, several things. It's mainly atheletes that use cryotherapy to heal after injury due to the inflammatory properties of cold air. But it also helps the body eliminate toxins, eases skin problems like eczema, as well as asthma and migraines. Not to mention it eases nervous conditions like stress, depression and insomnia due to the calming and somnorific effects.
OK so the list is boastful, but can you find this in Paris? Enter PØLE. Opened by sports trainer and therapist Stephen Compagnon (his surname translates as 'companion' - you already feel in good hands, right?) opened Paris' premier cryotherapy treatment hub to extend his healing expertise.
First thing's first, kit off. Once in your undergarments, slide into a pair of fluffy gloves and slippers to protect your extremeties which are more sensitive. Step into the topless cabin and the sides will be lowered so your head is peeping out. A minute of warm air eases you into the session, then the temperature steadily decreases. −100 °C, −150 °C... Turning slowly in the icy tube allows the cold air to target your entire body, and you're advised to rub any particularly frosty points. Stephen is there to guide you through the process, and if it gets too much - things can be warmed up. The result? Well, the initial after-effects are akin to the post-wine feeling. To put it bluntly, you'll feel a bit drunk. A white tea and a magazine in the design-led waiting room will sort you out though.
PØLE doesn't neglect your face either. The studio teamed up with Polaar (found at Birchbox), a French skincare brand that harnesses the power of blue light regions, to create effective and natural anti-ageing beauty products. Combined, the two glacial forces give an intensely hydrating and anti-ageing treatment. After a gentle exfoliation and preparation, a handheld tool emitting a temperature of −1°C and −3 °C is used to massage and tone the skin. Polaar Icey Magic eye patches are popped on to work their magic. Voilà - illuminated and firmer skin.
The rates might seem pricey (when you divide per minute) but you're receiving a rich health boost. It's over time when cryotherapy really makes a difference. Your body will able to flush out toxins more easily leaving it toned, and your mood will improve. Not to mention the benefits for injuries.
However, even if you're not in need of sports therapy - when it's this hot out, what's better than a blast of cold air?