Feel like your skincare routine is missing something? A facial steamer might just be it. With one, you’ll have glowing, stunning skin in no time. Plus, if you suffer from stuffy sinuses, it’s got you covered there too. By clearing your blocked nose, you might actually be able to get a good night’s sleep now. Aaand relax.
In this article, we’ll check out more of the benefits of facial steaming, how to use a facial steamer and answer some common questions. Let’s get started…
What does a facial steamer do?
A facial steamer pumps out a gentle stream of warm steam onto your face. This helps to open your pores, making it easier to deeply cleanse your skin. It also boosts your blood circulation – which can give your skin a healthy, radiant look. While the warmth and moisture are incredibly relaxing, turning your skincare routine into a mini spa experience. If you need a spot of pampering during a night in, it’s absolutely perfect.
How to use a facial steamer
So, how do you use a facial steamer? We’ve put together a handy step-by-step guide to get the most out of yours:
Prep your skin – Start by cleansing your face. This’ll remove any oils, dirt and makeup, and makes sure the steam can penetrate your pores.
Fill the steamer – Pour some distilled water into the reservoir.
Add essential oils (optional) – If you feel like it, add some essential oils to the water. Lavender will leave you feeling relaxed, while eucalyptus is great for your sinuses.
Turn on the steamer – Plug in the steamer and switch it on. Let it heat up and start producing steam.
Steam your face – Sit about six to ten inches away from the steam. Close your eyes and chill out, letting the steam flow over your face. Steam for around five to ten minutes for the best results.
Follow up with skincare – Done steaming? Your pores should now be open, making it easier to apply skincare products. Use a toner to close your pores, followed by a serum and moisturiser to hydrate and nourish your skin.
Clean the steamer – Once you’re done, unplug the steamer and let it cool down. Empty any remaining water and wipe down the steamer with a soft cloth. Cleaning it regularly will keep it in good condition.
Are facial steamers good for skin?
They’re not just good – they’re great! Facial steamers will really benefit your skin in a few different ways…
Deep cleansing – The steam opens up your pores, letting you cleanse more effectively. And this’ll help to remove dirt, oil and other impurities that can lead to breakouts.
Hydration – The steam hydrates your skin, making it feel soft and supple.
Improved circulation – Warm steam boosts the blood flow to your face, giving you a healthy, glowing complexion.
Better product absorption – After steaming, your skin is more receptive to skincare products. So, they’ll penetrate deeper and work even better.
Are facial steamers good for sinuses?
Absolutely. Facial steamers can be a life saver when you’re all bunged up. The warm steam loosens mucus and soothes blocked and irritated nasal passages. And this makes it easier to breathe. It’s a gentle and natural way of finding some much-needed relief.
How to clean a facial steamer
Your facial steamer is going to need some regular TLC. Then it’ll work the way it should and keep your skin looking nice and healthy.
Here’s how to clean it:
Unplug and cool down – Always unplug your steamer and let it cool down before cleaning.
Empty the water – Pour out any leftover water that might be sat in the reservoir.
Wipe down – Grab a soft cloth and wipe down the inside and outside of the steamer.
Descale – If you spot any mineral buildup, you’ll need to descale your steamer. Fill the reservoir with an equal mixture of water and vinegar, then run it for a few minutes. Once that’s done, rinse it thoroughly and you should be good to go.
How long and how often should you use a facial steamer?
When it comes to facial steaming, moderation is key. Here’s what we’d suggest:
Duration – Aim for about five to ten minutes per session. This is enough time to get all of the benefits without overdoing it.
Frequency – Using a facial steamer once or twice a week is ideal. Doing it too much can lead to dryness and irritation. So, it’s important to give your skin time to recover between sessions.
FAQs
Can I put essential oils in a facial steamer?
Yes, you can add a few drops of essential oils to your facial steamer for an extra aromatherapy element. Just make sure you use oils that are safe on your skin, like lavender or chamomile.
Can you use tap water in a facial steamer?
While you can use tap water, it’s better to use distilled water. Tap water might have minerals in it. And these can build up in your steamer over time, affecting its performance.
Can facial steamers cause burns?
Facial steamers are generally safe, but it’s important that you use them properly. Keep your face at a safe distance from the steam (about six to ten inches is good) to avoid burning yourself. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions beforehand too.
Do I need to wash my face before steaming?
Yes. It’s a good idea to cleanse your face before you start steaming. It’ll remove any makeup or dirt, letting the steam penetrate your pores more effectively.
Is steaming ok for acne-prone skin?
Facial steaming can help your acne, as it’ll unclog pores and remove any impurities. But, if your acne is severe, or you’ve got particularly sensitive skin, we’d recommend talking to a dermatologist first. It’s better to be on the safe side.
So, that’s everything you need to know about facial steamers. And if you need any other stunning skincare tools, we’ve got those too!
With our big read on all things face cleansing brushes: the ultimate guide, your skin will be even smoother and silkier. And if you want to take it further, transform your skincare routine with LED face masks. They’re one of the trendiest health and beauty gadgets you can get your hands on right now.
