From wellness warriors to celebs and athletes, it seems like everyone’s hopping into the cryo chamber these days. But what exactly is Cryotherapy in London, why is London’s coolest wellness trend taking over the city, and should you give it a go?
Let’s break it down, chill-style.
What Is Cryotherapy?
The word “cryotherapy” comes from the Greek word cryo, meaning cold. It’s a therapy that involves exposing the body to extremely low temperatures — often as low as -80°C to -110°C — for short bursts of time (usually between 2 and 4 minutes).
Sounds mad? It sort of is — but in the best way.
There are a few different types:
- Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC): You stand in a chamber that cools the entire body.
- Localised cryotherapy: Targeted cold treatment for specific areas like the face, joints, or injuries.
- Cryo facials: A fan-favourite among beauty lovers for its anti-ageing perks.
But the real buzz? It’s all about that whole-body freeze, and Londoners can’t get enough.
Why Londoners Are Loving the Chill
So, what’s driving this icy obsession? Why is cryotherapy becoming London’s coolest wellness trend?
1. It Fits the High-Speed London Lifestyle: London life can be relentless. Between the Tube delays, packed schedules, and the constant buzz, it’s no wonder Londoners are looking for quick, effective wellness fixes.
Cryotherapy sessions are super speedy — just a few minutes and you’re done. That means you can pop in on your lunch break and be back at your desk before your coffee gets cold.
2. A Natural Mood Booster: One of the biggest draws? That post-cryo high.
When you step out of the chamber, your body floods with endorphins — the same “happy hormones” released after exercise. Many say it feels like a mental reset button. For those battling London’s grey skies and seasonal blues, it’s an uplifting way to beat the gloom.
3. The Beauty & Skin Glow-Up: Fancy firmer skin, fewer wrinkles, and reduced puffiness? Cryotherapy might be your new best mate.
By tightening blood vessels and boosting circulation, cryo can help tone and firm the skin, while stimulating collagen production. No wonder it’s become a pre-event ritual for influencers and celebs before red carpet appearances in London.
4. Recovery Like a Pro: Athletes have been using cryotherapy for years to speed up recovery after intense workouts or injuries. Now, fitness lovers all over London — from marathon runners to spin class devotees — are catching on.
It helps reduce inflammation, ease sore muscles, and accelerate recovery, making it a favourite among the fitness crowd.
What Happens During a Cryo Session?
If the idea of standing in an ice-cold chamber sounds a bit daunting, don’t worry — it’s more manageable than you think.
Here’s what a typical session looks like:
Step 1: Quick Consultation: When you arrive, you’ll usually fill out a short health form. A staff member will chat to you about your goals — whether it’s boosting recovery, improving skin, or simply trying something new.
Step 2: Gear Up: You’ll be given thermal gloves, socks, slippers, and sometimes earmuffs to protect extremities from the chill. Then, you’ll undress your undergarments or swimwear and step into the chamber.
Step 3: Into the Freeze: The chamber will begin to cool rapidly using nitrogen vapour or refrigerated cold air. You’ll be in there for up to 4 minutes, and yes — it’s cold, but it’s a dry cold, so most people find it surprisingly tolerable.
Some even dance, stretch, or chat during their session — it’s not as terrifying as it sounds!
Step 4: Warm-Up and Glow On: After your session, you’ll feel an intense rush of energy and warmth returning to your body. Many say they feel invigorated, calm, and focused — like a cold shower times ten.
Is Cryotherapy Safe?
For most people, yes — cryotherapy is safe when done at a reputable clinic with trained professionals. As London’s coolest wellness trend, it’s becoming increasingly popular, but it’s not recommended for people with certain medical conditions like pregnancy, uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart issues, or severe Raynaud’s disease.
Always check with your GP first if you’re unsure, and make sure your cryo provider talks you through everything beforehand.
Where to Try Cryotherapy in London
London is quickly becoming a cryo hotspot, with chic cryo lounges and high-tech wellness centres popping up all over the city. Many now offer flexible cryotherapy packages in London, making it easier than ever to commit to regular sessions. Here are a few areas where you can dive into London’s coolest wellness trend:
- North London: Places like Finchley and Hampstead are home to cryo specialists that cater to both athletes and beauty buffs. Some offer full-body cryo, cryo facials, and even packages combining cryo with other treatments like infrared sauna or lymphatic drainage.
- Central London: Wellness clinics in Mayfair, Soho, and Fitzrovia often offer luxury cryotherapy experiences alongside IV drips, biohacking tools, and cutting-edge skincare.
- East & South London: Trendy cryo spots are popping up in areas like Shoreditch and Clapham, offering a more relaxed, community vibe while still delivering top-quality results.
Who’s Doing Cryotherapy?
A better question might be — who isn’t?
- Athletes use it to recover faster and train harder.
- Busy professionals love the mental clarity and energy boost.
- Beauty lovers swear by the skin-tightening effects.
- Celebs like Mark Wahlberg, Jennifer Aniston, and even Cristiano Ronaldo have openly raved about their love for cryotherapy.
With its growing popularity, cryotherapy is becoming just as much a part of modern London life as matcha lattes, hot yoga, and Sunday strolls on the South Bank.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary depending on where you go and what kind of session you’re booking. On average, here’s what to expect:
- Single session: £40–£70
- Intro offers: Some clinics offer first-time deals from £25
- Packages: You can often save by booking 5 or 10 sessions at once — many places offer flexible cryotherapy packages in London tailored to your goals.
- Add-ons: Cryo facials or combo treatments may cost more
It might sound steep for a few minutes in the cold, but for many Londoners, the results are worth every penny.
Cryotherapy: Just a Fad or Here to Stay?
It’s easy to dismiss cryotherapy as another wellness fad — just a cold gimmick with a fancy price tag. But with science backing its benefits, and a growing number of happy regulars across London, it looks like cryo’s here to stay.
What sets it apart is its versatility. Whether you’re chasing better recovery, glowing skin, a lifted mood, or just a bold new experience, cryotherapy ticks all the boxes. It’s wellness on your terms — fast, effective, and a bit of an adventure.
And let’s be honest — there’s something undeniably cool about freezing yourself in a chamber that looks like it belongs in a Marvel film.
Should You Try Cryotherapy?
If you’re curious, open to trying something new, and don’t mind a bit of chill, then absolutely — give it a go.
With clinics dotted across the city and packages for all budgets, it’s easier than ever to try out London’s coolest wellness trend. Whether you’re a stressed-out professional, a fitness fanatic, or someone who just fancies a different kind of self-care, cryo might be exactly the refresh you need.
Just one warning: once you feel the buzz, you might find yourself coming back for more.
So… ready to chill out the London way?
FAQ
What does cryotherapy actually do to the body?
Cryotherapy triggers your body’s natural healing processes by exposing it to extreme cold. This helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation, release endorphins, and promote recovery — all in just a few minutes.
Is cryotherapy painful?
Not at all. It’s cold — really cold — but most people say it feels more like a chilly tingling sensation. Because it’s a dry cold, it’s far more tolerable than, say, an ice bath.
How often should I do cryotherapy?
That depends on your goals. Some people go once a week for general wellness, while athletes or those managing pain might go 2–3 times a week. Your cryo technician can help tailor a plan.
What should I wear for a cryotherapy session?
You’ll wear your underwear or swimwear, plus thermal gloves, socks, and slippers (usually provided by the clinic). The goal is to protect extremities while exposing most of the skin.
Is cryotherapy safe for everyone?
Cryotherapy is safe for most healthy people, but it’s not recommended if you have heart conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or certain circulatory disorders. Always consult your GP first if unsure.
Where can I try cryotherapy in London?
There are top cryo clinics across North, Central, East, and South London offering everything from whole-body cryo to cryo facials. Look for reputable spots with certified technicians and modern equipment.
