Use of Measurement Probes to Evaluate the Effect of a Series of Whole-Body Cryostimulation Treatments on Skin Characteristics in Subjects with Different BMIs

Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) is a widely used method that exposes the body to extremely low temperatures to induce physiological responses. While its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-edema effects are well-documented, the effects of WBC on the skin are not yet fully understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a single session of WBC and a series of 10 and 20 treatments on selected biophysical properties of the skin in normal-weight and overweight or obese subjects. Twenty-three volunteers took part in the study—12 in the study group (SG, BMI > 27) and 11 in the control group (CG, BMI 18–25). Skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), pH, and skin elasticity were measured each time before and after the 1st, 10th, and 20th WBC treatments. All assessments were carried out under standard conditions using specialized probes. The skin in response to the cryogenic stimulus differed according to BMI and anatomical location. In SG: skin firmness on the face (p < 0.001) and forearm (p < 0.001), hydration (p = 0.004), and pH (p = 0.005) on the forearm significantly improved, while TEWL increased after a series of treatments in both groups (p = 0.028). WBC appears to be a safe and effective method of modulating the biophysical properties of the skin, with effects varying by BMI and body region. However, the role of WBCs in exacerbating TEWL should continue to be observed, and in the future, it is also advisable to develop methods to offset this adverse effect.