How to Use an Ice Roller (And When to Skip It)
Written by Kerry Benjamin

Why Ice Rolling Isn’t Just a Trend
Forget jade rollers and viral hacks—ice rolling delivers real results, fast. Whether you’re dealing with morning puffiness, post-peel redness, or hormonal skin flare-ups, cold therapy has the power to calm, tighten, and brighten in under five minutes.
But it’s not just about blindly rolling frozen tools across your face. Like any skincare treatment, the ice roller works best when used with intention—and in the right order within your routine.
Benefits of Using an Ice Roller
- Decreases Puffiness: Cold constricts blood vessels to reduce swelling and under-eye bags.
- Soothes Inflammation: Calms red, reactive skin after treatments or flare-ups.
- Boosts Circulation: Stimulates lymphatic flow and encourages natural radiance.
- Helps Set Makeup: Tightens pores for smoother application and reduces oil.
What Does Ice Rolling Do for Lymphatic Drainage?
Lymphatic drainage is your skin’s built-in detox. The lymph system clears waste and excess fluid, but it can get sluggish—especially overnight or during hormonal shifts. Ice rolling stimulates lymph flow, helping flush puffiness and toxins from the skin’s surface.
Pro tip: Always roll outward and upward toward your lymph nodes (jawline, ears), then gently roll down your neck to release and drain fluid toward the collarbone. Think: lift, then flush.
How to Use an Ice Roller the Right Way
- Chill Properly: Keep your roller in the freezer. Wait 15 seconds before use so it’s cold—but not painfully cold.
- Cleanse First: Always begin with clean skin using the Prebiotic Gel Cleanser.
- Apply TCA Peel: Use your TCA Multi-Acid Face Peel on clean, dry skin and allow it to absorb.
- Ice Roller: Roll gently in upward and outward strokes. Finish with downward strokes on the neck to stimulate lymphatic release.
- Finish with Treatment: Apply EGF Activating Serum, retinol (PM only), and moisturizer.
How to Use the Ice Roller in Your Routine
AM Routine (for puffiness + lymph support):
- Cleanse with Prebiotic Gel Cleanser
- Ice Roller
- EGF Activating Serum
- Microbiome Moisturizer
- SPF
PM Routine (for post-peel soothing + inflammation):
- Cleanse with Prebiotic Gel Cleanser
- TCA Multi-Acid Face Peel (if exfoliating that day)
- Ice Roller
- EGF Activating Serum
- Retinol (optional)
- Face Oil or Microbiome Moisturizer
This Tool Is Perfect For You If…
- You wake up with puffiness or feel inflamed after treatments
- You experience hot flashes or hormonal skin sensitivity
- You’re looking for a quick way to calm redness without loading up on product
- You want a cooling step that feels like a mini facial
Pro Tip from Kerry: I use the Ice Roller after the TCA Peel to cool and calm my skin. It reduces heat, cuts down the redness, and just feels incredible when I’m overheated or breaking out.
StackedSkincare Products That Pair with Your Ice Roller
- TCA Multi-Acid Face Peel – Use before rolling to exfoliate and prep skin
- EGF Activating Serum – Absorbs best when skin is cool and calm
- Dermaplaning Tool – Use before rolling for smoother skin and better absorption
- Prebiotic Gel Cleanser – Always start with clean skin
FAQ
Is it OK to use the Ice Roller daily?
Yes—just keep it clean and use light pressure.
Can I use it after a peel?
Yes. Use it after the TCA Peel to reduce heat and inflammation.
When should I use it—before or after treatments?
Use it after cleansing and exfoliating (like with a peel), then follow with your serums and moisturizer.
Can it help with breakouts?
It can reduce inflammation, but won’t treat acne. Use the High Frequency Device and TCA Peel for that.
What if I have rosacea?
Skip it—cold can worsen redness for rosacea-prone skin.
Does ice rolling help with lymphatic drainage?
Yes! Gentle upward strokes followed by downward passes on the neck help stimulate lymph flow and flush out built-up fluid for a more sculpted, refreshed look.
About the Author

Kerry Benjamin, a licensed aesthetician, has over 12 years of experience. Kerry is the driving force behind StackedSkincare. As the company's CEO, Kerry has dedicated her career to revolutionizing skincare. Her innovative approach combines peels, serums, and specialized tools toeffectively address a wide range of skin concerns. CA LE license number Z98459.