Face steaming is a very old, yet still very popular technique to cleanse your face. You can have one in beauty salons and spas, but also do it at your home. It’s easy, inexpensive and extremely effective.
Let’s find out more about the benefits, the dos and don’ts and all you need to know about facial steaming.
Face steam benefits
Makes it easier to remove blackheads
Blackheads are formed when excess sebum and dead cells gather in your skin and clog your pores. They appear most frequently on the face (nose, forehead and chin), back and neck.
Face steam softens your skin and makes it easier for you to remove blackheads using an extractor tool.
Prevents acne
Dirt, pollutants, excess sebum and make up, when gathered in your skin, clog your pores and encourage bacterial growth, leading to acne.
Face steam cleans the pores, removes bacteria and balances excessive sebum production, preventing the appearance of pimples, bumps and whiteheads.
Hydrates the skin
The lack of moisture in your skin, often leads to dehydration. When your skin is dehydrated, it looks dull and it is more vulnerable and prone to fine lines and wrinkles. The steam hydrates and softens the skin, helping it retain its moisture.
Improves product absorption
Face steam prepares your skin to better absorb the skin care products you will apply next. When dead cells are removed and the pores of your skin are cleansed, the active ingredients of your skincare products will penetrate deeper into your skin and thus be more effective.
Stimulates blood circulation
Hot steam dilates your blood vessels and improves blood flow, making your complexion look healthy and young. Dull skin is rejuvenated and glowing skin
Boosts collagen and elastin production
Improving blood flow can make your skin look brighter, as the production of collagen and elastin is promoted. Collagen and elastin prevent premature aging, soften fine lines and wrinkles and increase skin’s elasticity.
Relaxes and calms
The psychological impact of a face steam is similar to that of a sauna bath or a spa treatment. It relieves stress, improves your mood, and acts as a feel-good ritual.
How to do a facial steam at home
There are two basic techniques you can follow. Using a bowl with hot water or using warm towels. Let’s take a closer look at these techniques.
Steaming over a bowl of hot water
- Put some water into the pot and bring it to the boil.
- When the water begins to boil, add the herbs and let it boil for another 2 minutes.
- Remove the pot and carefully pour the water into a bowl. At this point you can add your essential oils.
- Grab a towel and wear your hair in a bun.
- Place the bowl in a table and the towel over your head and hold your face above the water.
Steaming with warm towels
- Put some water into the pot and bring it to the boil.
- When the water begins to boil, add the herbs and let it boil for another 2 minutes.
- Remove the pot and carefully pour the water into a bowl. At this point you can add your essential oils.
- Soak a towel in the water and then wring it out.
- Lay the towel over your face for 5-10 minutes.
What to do before, during and after the steam
Before the face steam
- Make sure to be well hydrated and drink lots of water.
- Cleanse your face thoroughly to remove pollutants and make up. You can also use a mild face scrub to exfoliate your skin and better prepare it for the steam.
During the face steam
-Keep your eyes closed to avoid irritations and itchiness.
- If you steam over a bowl, keep a distance of 20 cm. to avoid burning.
- If you steam with warm towel, make sure it’s not too hot for your skin.
- If you experience dizziness or your skin starts to feel itchy, stop the procedure and rinse your face with lukewarm water.
After the face steam
- Rinse your face with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.
- Apply a rich moisturizing cream to deeply moisturize and nourish your skin.
- Apply your favorite facial oil and gently massage using a jade roller or gua sha to relax your facial muscles and get a more sculpted look.
Herbs and essential oils you can use
Face steaming can be done with plain hot water but adding some dry herbs and essential oils will enhance its effectiveness. Depending on your skin type there are several herbs and oils you can use.
Face steam for oily/acne prone skin
- Ideal herbs: Rosemary and mint
- Ideal essential oils: Eucalyptus and tea tree
Face steam for dry and sensitive skin
- Ideal herbs: Chamomile and calendula
- Ideal essential oils: Ylang ylang and geranium
Face steam for combination skin
- Ideal herbs: Lavender and helichrysum
- Ideal essential oils: Bergamot and rose
Frequently asked questions
How often can I do face steam?
Steaming once a week is ideal for most skin types. If you have very dry skin, do a facial steam every two weeks.
How long should it last?
Keeping your face too long over the steam, may dehydrate your skin. Limit the time of your facial steaming to 5-10 minutes.
Are there any side effects?
Face steaming should be avoided if you have extremely sensitive skin or you suffer from dermatological problems, such as rosacea and eczema.
Our favorite products for a home steam:
Kalliope's - Face Steam Floral Mix
Ln Handmade Soaps - Face Towel
