When it comes to facial steaming, there are two kinds of people: those who have the complete at-home steam room set up and those who stand over their dishwasher as it finishes its cycle.
But as it turns out, this skin-clearing ritual (that’s usually the most luxurious and relaxing part of any facial) can now be achieved through a small and very affordable at-home machine.
As far as the benefits go, facial steamers work by warming up and softening the skin, resulting in an unclogging of dirt and oil from deep within the pores, leaving the skin clear and purified. But wait, there’s more…
Keep reading to discover seven benefits incorporating a steamer into your routine will have on your skin, mind and wallet…
Increases circulation
When you steam you increase your body’s temperature, which often results in sweating. Sweating causes your blood vessels to dilate so that more blood can flow into the area, allowing more oxygen to reach your skin tissues. This rejuvenates dull, lacklustre skin and leaves you glowing and flushed.
Detoxifies skin
If you live in the city, your skin is probably dying for a good detox. ‘Sweating out toxins’ sounds like pseudo-science BS, but there is actually some truth to it. Skin cells, dirt, and anything else clogging pores rises to the surface when you sweat. You’d be surprised (and frankly, disgusted) by the amount of gunk that gets accumulated just by living your daily life. So by giving your face a deep clean with a steamer you will help clear out your complexion.
Softens skin
As we get older, our cellular turnover slows down and we need a bit of assistance – this is where face steamers come in. Face steamers provide exfoliation benefits by helping us shed dead skin cells, leaving our skin soft and plump. Plus, for those with easily irritated skin, this makes for a gentle alternative to exfoliation.
Kills acne-causing bacteria
Whenever your pores open, bacteria that is clogged inside is forced to the surface. By steaming your face once or twice a week, you can help get rid of the germs that cause acne and prevent any future breakouts.
Increases effectiveness of skin care products
Incorporate steaming into your routine after you cleanse and before you’ve applied your first serum. During the steam, your pores are opened, allowing your skin care products to reach deeper and provide better results. To restore any moisture lost during a steaming session, don’t forget to apply additional hydration.
Helps to relax and unwind
Had a tough day? Mix a few drops of relaxing essential oil into your steamer to create a luxury spa experience at home. Stress and anxiety can wreak havoc on your complexion, so taking a few minutes to chill out and breathe in some calming essential oils can help you to unwind and properly de-stress.
It will save you money
If you invest in a steamer at home, you won’t need to visit a facialist as often. For some, this can mean saving upwards of $300 a month.
Here are some at-home facial steamers we recommend:
Facial Steamer ($29 at Kmart)
Have you tried a face steamer before?
Main image credit: @drdennisgross
I love using my steamer and can see the difference in my skin
I have not tried this.. but i dont think ill really like this. I hate the feeling of my face feeling so moist ehh
Ultraceuticals products are amazing ! I highly recommend them for sensitive & combination skin types
I’ve never used any of their products!
Oooh. I’m so on board with this! I used to do this with Vicks as a child.
Like a facial sauna!
Between dermaplaning and steaming, they are very effective ways of prepping your skin for product penetration!
I’m off to steam my face now!