Proper blood flow helps skin build collagen and elastin, which give skin a plump, bouncy look. The increased blood flow from steaming encourages this natural process. “Steaming can make skin look firmer and younger because it increases circulation,” says Diliberto.
According to Tevelin, facial steaming can also help counteract signs of aging. "Facial steaming helps to boost hydration, which means it has a soothing, smoothing effect, and it also boosts radiance," she says.
Promotes Collagen and Elastin Production:
Increased blood flow experienced during a steam facial promotes collagen and elastin production. This results in firmer, younger-looking skin. I find it's highly noticeable after a face steam.
No, you should not use steam on your face every single day. Although the benefits of steaming face are far too many, steaming everyday can prove to be slightly harsh as the pores will not have enough time to close. Therefore, limit the process to 10 minutes once a week for best results.
Steaming your face might make your skin slightly softer and more hydrated and can help unclog your pores. It's safe, as long as you don't have skin concerns triggered by inflammation, including melasma and eczema, and as long as you don't make the water too hot or get too close.
“Although the benefits of steaming face are far too many, steaming every day can prove to be slightly harsh and do more harm than good as the skin pores will not have enough time to close,” Dr Bansal warned, further suggesting to “limit the process to 10 minutes once a week for best results.”
You don't need to cleanse your face right after steaming. In fact, you should apply your skincare products like serums, masks, or moisturizers after a face steaming session to make the most out of the open pores and enhanced absorption.
Use steam after cleansing your skin, in the morning or at night. Choose a day when you have some free time to relax and make it part of your self-care routine.
Always rinse and tone when you're finished cleansing.
Whether you steam or use a mask, always remember to rinse away the dirt when you're finished. Follow up by using a toner on your face. Toner helps restore your skin's pH balance after cleansing, giving it a youthful, glowing appearance and helping to close pores.
The steam can help clear out your sinuses and stimulate circulation, moving fluid out of the eye area.
Use soothing essential oils for your facial steam
Lavender oil is great for relaxing and calming the skin. You may try eucalyptus oil or tea tree oil for acne or if your skin feels congested. Orange essential oil really helps to brighten dull skin and release clogged pores.
As you get ready to begin your skincare routine, a common question is, “Do you cleanse before or after steaming your face?” The answer is to cleanse your face before steaming. Cleansing your face first removes makeup and dirt.
A clothes steamer directs a flow of hot steam onto clothing or household items, such as drapery, from a hand-held component connected to a water reservoir. The steam interacts with the fabric to loosen tightened threading and fibers, thus removing wrinkles caused by washing, drying or prolonged bunching.
Steaming your face may not be the best idea if you have sensitive skin. The heat can cause irritation and inflammation. Always avoid getting too close to the steamer. It's important to keep a safe distance from the hot water to prevent burning yourself.
Before steaming, most experts recommend a light cleanse. Cleansing before steaming aids in the removal of any remaining dead skin cells. Since the pores may dilate with heat, this avoids further clogging. However, if you don't also cleanse your face after the procedure, those dead cells may clog your pores once more.
What temperature is ideal for use on the face? While a steaming hot shower sounds tempting after a long day, it may not be as great for your skin. Extra hot water can strip away the natural oils and dry you out. “When washing your face, cold or lukewarm temperature is always better.
Exfoliate. One of the best times to exfoliate is after steaming your face. The heat from the steam should loosen up stubborn buildup, excess sebum, and impurities lodged in your skin. So this is your chance to remove them and clear your pores easily.
In general, you can steam with a hot towel or bowl for up to 10 minutes at a time. But keep an eye on how your skin responds. “If your skin feels great after a 10-minute steam, stick with that length of time,” Diliberto says, “but if you feel too hot or notice irritation, cut back or discontinue use.”
Whether you clean it afterwards too though is entirely a matter of choice. If you're worried about all that sweat being left on your face after steaming then you can either splash your face with lukewarm water, use a toner to remove any residual sweat and dirt, or do another gentle cleanse.
When to Use a Facial Steamer in Your Skincare Routine. You can use a facial steamer morning or night. Make sure you're always using it on clean skin, either after you wash your face or as you cleanse it. Use your steamer for up to 15 minutes.