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Face steaming for skin: Benefits and how to do it the right way

Face steaming for skin: Benefits and how to do it the right way

Tending to your skin should be a priority, and facial steaming is one simple way that's getting a lot of attention.
But is it good for skin?

Here's what you need to know. Cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen are the basics of any good skin care routine, but adding in facial steaming can give your complexion an extra boost.

Face steaming is a popular skincare treatment that has long been used to improve the appearance and health of the skin. It involves the use of hot steam to open up pores, allowing dirt and debris to be removed from deep within them. The steam also helps hydrate skin cells, leaving it feeling softer and more refreshed.

Steam facials and baths have long been a go-to choice for those looking to improve the condition of their facial and body skin. Now that visiting spas isn't an option due to safety measures in place, we explore the alternative of steaming at home, as well as the many potential benefits it has to offer.

Benefits of facial steaming

Facial steaming is a popular spa treatment that involves using warm water vapor to open up the pores and deeply cleanse the skin. It can provide numerous benefits, such as deep cleansing, improved circulation, hydration, and relaxation.

Here are some of the top benefits of facial steaming:

  1. Deep Cleansing: Facial steaming helps to draw out impurities from within the pores, including dirt and oil which can cause breakouts. It also loosens any dead skin cells that may be clogging pores or blocking hair follicles. This makes it easier for products like cleansers and masks to penetrate more deeply into the skin for a more thorough cleanse.
  1. Improved Circulation: Facial steaming increases blood flow to the face which encourages new cell growth and promotes healthier looking skin. The increased circulation can also help reduce puffiness in the face or under eyes due to sinus congestion or allergies.
  1. Hydration: Steam helps to add moisture back into your skin by increasing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), making it an effective way of hydrating dry skin without having to use heavy creams or oils that could potentially clog pores further down the line.
  1. Acne fighting: When your skin cells trap sebum in your follicles, it can lead to acne caused by bacteria growth, inflammation, and other issues. Doing a facial steam can help open up the pores and release the sebum, thus preventing pimples from forming.
  1. Relaxation: In addition to its other benefits, facial steaming is incredibly relaxing! Sitting back with warm steam on your face can help you unwind after a long day while providing nourishment for your skin at the same time.
  1. Product absorption: Steaming your face before applying toner, serums, or moisturizer can help you get the most out of these products. When your skin is prepped for product penetration through steaming, it will be more receptive to the products and their benefits.

Tips for Better Facial Steaming

To ensure the best possible facial steaming experience, use these five steps regardless of which method you choose:

  1. Cleanse your face before steaming to remove dirt and oils that can clog the pores.
  1. Use a towel or face cloth to cover your head while steaming in order to trap the steam and direct it toward your skin.
  1. Use distilled water for steaming as tap water may contain minerals that could irritate your skin or leave behind residue on your face after steaming.
  1. Steam for no more than 10 minutes at a time, allowing the heat to penetrate deeply into the skin without overdoing it which can lead to redness and irritation.
  1. Finish with a cool rinse afterwards or apply a facial mask immediately following steaming to help close up the open pores and lock in moisture.

    Different ways of facial steaming 

    There are a few ways you can enjoy this versatile skin treatment at home.

  1. Electric Steamer: An electric steamer can also be used for facial steaming. These devices are designed specifically for this purpose and usually come with an adjustable nozzle to direct steam at different angles on the face. They tend to produce more consistent temperatures than boiling water, making them safer and more comfortable to use.
  1. Herbal Infusions: Adding herbs such as chamomile, lavender, or rosemary to boiling water before steaming can enhance its benefits even further by providing additional calming and soothing effects on the skin and helping clear out pores more effectively. Simply add 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs per cup of boiling water in a bowl or pot before starting your facial steam session as usual.
  1. Essential Oils: If you don’t have any dried herbs on hand but still want to reap extra benefits from your facial steam session, consider adding 2-3 drops of essential oils such as tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil directly into the boiling water just before starting your session.

The bottom line

The steam that comes from a shower is sufficient to give your skin the healthy radiance it needs. However, if your skin reacts positively to steaming and you enjoy the feeling of pampering yourself, then there's no harm in continuing with your routine.

If you have an inflammatory skin condition, it is important to consult with your doctor before indulging in a weekly face steaming session as a form of relaxation. However, this activity can be beneficial for promoting healthy skin if given the green light.

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