Face steaming is a relaxing self-care ritual that can provide numerous skincare benefits. Adding essential oils to the steam enhances the experience and targets specific skin concerns. Here is an in-depth look at some of the top essential oils to use for face steaming.
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Why Steam Your Face
- Opens pores and unclogs skin
- Loosens blackheads and whiteheads
- Softens and hydrates skin
- Boosts circulation
- Relaxes facial muscles
- Prepares skin for extraction or mask
How to Steam Your Face Using a Face Steamer
A face steamer is a useful beauty device that provides deeper cleansing and hydration benefits compared to traditional face steaming methods. Face steamers come in handy desktop models equipped with an arm to direct steam towards your face. They provide a consistent steam temperature and makes the process completely hands-free.
Using a face steamer offers several advantages over DIY steaming. The main benefit is the ability to steam for longer periods of time. While you can realistically only steam your face for 5-10 minutes holding your face over a pot, a steamer allows you to comfortably steam for 15-20 minutes. This extended steaming time allows your pores to open fully and release more impurities.
Face steamers also provide deeper penetration of moisture and skin-nourishing ingredients. The concentrated direct steam infusion boosts the effects of serums, masks, and essential oils applied beforehand. Nutrients are able to penetrate below the surface level of skin for better absorption.
The consistency of the steam temperature and flow rate from an electric steamer ensures safety and prevents irritation. You don’t have to worry about water getting too hot or generating inconsistent steam. Just relax and enjoy a peaceful steaming session.
Using a high-quality face steamer a few times per week will leave your complexion looking clear and vibrant. The deep cleansing, hydration, and circulation boost provide both instant and cumulative skincare benefits.
How to Steam Your Face Without a Face Steamer
- Boil water in a pot, remove from heat
- Place pot on a towel on a stable surface
- Drape a towel over your head to form a tent over the pot
- Close your eyes and relax as the steam penetrates your skin
- Steam for 5-10 minutes
- Rinse face with cool water when done
Best Essential Oils for Face Steaming
Tea Tree Oil
- Powerful antiseptic and antimicrobial properties
- Helps kill acne-causing bacteria
- Reduces inflammation and redness
- Dries out blemishes
Lavender Oil
- Soothes and calms irritated skin
- Balances oil production
- Reduces appearance of pores
- Provides an aromatherapeutic relaxation boost
Rosemary Oil
- Improves circulation
- Reduces puffiness
- Tightens enlarged pores
- Leaves skin looking rejuvenated
Chamomile Oil
- Anti-inflammatory, calming properties
- Soothes itchy, dry skin
- Reduces redness
- Hydrates and nourishes skin
Lemongrass Oil
- Natural astringent properties
- Deep cleanses oily, acne-prone skin
- Exfoliates dead skin cells
- Brightens and tones dull complexions
How to Use Essential Oils
- Add 5-10 drops of oil to pot of steaming water
- Can blend 2-3 oils to target multiple concerns
- Perform a patch test before use to check for allergies
- Avoid getting oils directly in your eyes
After Face Steaming
- Splash with cool water to close pores
- Apply serum, moisturizer to hydrate skin
- Can extract blackheads after steaming session
- Repeat 1-2 times per week for best results
Face steaming with essential oils is a pampering ritual with many skincare perks. Be sure to choose oils suited for your particular skin needs to maximize the benefits. With regular practice, you can achieve clean, healthy, glowing skin.