What is facial steaming? A facial steamer produces a warm mist/steam that can help target skin issues like acne. Steamers are great at releasing wrinkles from clothes and removing grime from floors. And as it turns out, they’re also effective at getting dirt out of your pores.

How a facial steaming works.

The goal when steaming, is to soften and moisten the oil and debris in the pores, allowing for easier removal as you cleanse. While facial steaming can make it easier to eliminate oil and build up within your pores, the benefits go beyond that. Facial steaming can be especially beneficial for men who shave frequently. The steam can soften the hair on the face before they shave, which will allow for easier removal, thus leading to less tugging and pulling of the razor over the skin. This in turn should reduce skin irritations and razor burn.

The warm vapour increases blood flow to the skin and results in a temporary flushed look. It can also boost the skin’s ability to soak up serums and topical treatments and may aid in the skin’s collagen and elastin replenishment process, resulting in fewer signs of ageing. If you suffer from a sensitive skin, you need to remember that the extra blood flow to the skin may make your skin glow, but it could also have the unintended effect of increasing inflammation. As a result, prolonged exposure to heat can exacerbate certain skin conditions like acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, redness, or melasma.

Therefore, knowing your skin type is extremely important. Steaming should be done in moderation. Steaming your skin too frequently or for too long can dry it out, much like a hot shower, as more water ultimately leaves the softened skin during this process.

How to Steam  

Start by cleaning your skin of any makeup, accumulated dirt, oil, or any other pollutants. Exfoliate gently. You can do this with a scrub or with a chemical exfoliant. Next, you can start to steam your face and neck. After the steaming, put on a soothing face mask or a hydrating serum to nourish the face and bring that moisture back into the skin cells.

When using a Facial steamer, be sure to follow all product manual instructions, and as with any machine that uses heat, use with caution, and keep children and pets at a safe distance when doing so. Also be sure to clean the accessory often, as explained in the instructions. Good hygiene is crucial to avoid mildew or other contamination within the facial steamer.

Within one minute of stopping the steamer, immediately apply a moisturiser to lock in moisture and hydrate the skin. Since anything you apply at this point can penetrate deeper, moisturisers with harsh chemicals and/or fragrances can lead to irritation or flare-ups of conditions like eczema. This is another reason we recommend using an organic or natural based product. After you moisturise, apply an SPF facial sun screen to protect your skin from potential sun damage. Note that most topical skin medications are formulated to be applied to dry skin, so be sure to read instructions and avoid use after steaming, if necessary.

If you have any uncertainty about whether you should use a facial steamer, be sure to consult with your doctor or a dermatologist before doing so.

Always be careful with products you don’t know. Do tests before your use any new product/equipment on your face.  Stay safe and healthy.

Remember, what makes us more beautiful than any make up or procedure is that beautiful smile you should wear all the time.