What is cryotherapy?
Whole body cryotherapy (WBC) exposes your body to extreme cold, typically between -166°F and -220°F, for up to three minutes inside a cryotherapy chamber. At those temperatures, the cold does not actually penetrate your core. What it triggers is a quick, strong response in your skin and nervous system, which is why people step out feeling so awake.
It is not an ice bath. The dry, ultra-cold air in a cryo chamber feels completely different from cold water immersion, and the physiological mechanisms differ in important ways too. Both have value, but cryotherapy is faster, more controlled, and more easily tolerated by most people.
How cryotherapy works: the science
When your skin receptors detect temperatures at that extreme, your body goes into survival mode. Blood rushes from the extremities toward the core to protect vital organs. The skin surface temperature drops dramatically. Your central nervous system interprets this as a threat and responds accordingly.
That response is the point.
Vasoconstriction, then vasodilation
During the session, blood vessels near the skin contract sharply (vasoconstriction). The moment you step out of the chamber, those vessels dilate fast. Blood flows back out to your skin and muscles, which is part of the warm, tingly, energized feeling afterward.
Endorphin and norepinephrine surge
Cryotherapy triggers a significant release of endorphins (the same neurochemicals associated with runner's high) along with norepinephrine. Norepinephrine plays a role in mood and focus, and studies have measured it at two to three times its usual level after a whole body cryo session. Many people feel the mood lift for hours.
Recovery
Athletes have used cold for recovery for decades. Researchers are studying whole body cryotherapy for muscle soreness after exercise, and many clients use it the day after a hard workout.
What to expect during your session at Biohack
At Biohack Cryo + Wellness, sessions are private and guided by our team. Here's how it goes:
Before: You'll change into dry clothing. We provide protective gear for your extremities (socks, gloves, slippers) since those areas are most sensitive. You do not wear much; the session is too short for layers to matter.
During: You step into the Biohack cryo chamber. Temperatures drop to -166°F to -220°F. You can move around, rotate, breathe normally. Most people find it tolerable, even energizing, within the first 30 seconds. Sessions run up to three minutes. The cold air is dry, which makes a significant difference compared to wet cold.
After: You step out and warm up naturally within minutes. Most clients report an immediate sense of lightness and elevated mood. Your skin will be slightly red, which fades quickly.
Who cryotherapy is for
Cryotherapy is a quick recovery tool that fits into almost any day. It's popular with:
Athletes and weekend warriors: A quick reset between training sessions, especially on sore days.
Busy professionals: The norepinephrine boost supports focus and mental clarity. Many clients schedule sessions first thing in the morning for the same reason they'd take a cold shower, but more concentrated.
Anyone short on time: Three minutes and you're done, so it fits into a lunch break.
If you're not sure whether cryo is right for you, our team is happy to answer questions before your first session.
Cryotherapy pairs well with these Biohack services
At Biohack, you're not limited to a single service. Cryotherapy pairs well with Compression Therapy, HBOT or the Ammortal Chamber in the same visit, and we put them in the best order for you. Or explore our full services menu.
Not sure where to start? Take our free recovery quiz.
Cryotherapy in Woodland Hills: the San Fernando Valley's go-to recovery studio
Biohack Cryo + Wellness is located at 5305 Topanga Canyon Blvd in Woodland Hills, CA, central to Calabasas, West Hills, Tarzana, Encino, Chatsworth, Thousand Oaks, and Malibu. See our hours and directions.
If you're ready to try it, book a cryotherapy session online. Slots are available same-day. Our team walks you through your first session.