The connection between healthy, radiant skin and a good skincare routine is just as much a fact as the law of gravity, or The Beatles’ influence, or that 1+1 = 2. It’s plain and simply true – there’s no arguing about it!
There are, however, a few skincare steps that many believe are worth debating over. One perfect example: Facial steaming.
These days, this trendy technique has gone from a typical step at spa treatments and professional facials to a spot at people’s at-home beauty ritual. It reportedly delivers a variety of benefits for the skin. Many swear by it. Some doubt it. We, on the other hand, want nothing more than to discuss it.
Does it really benefit the skin? And more importantly, is it really necessary?
In this article, we break down everything there is to know about facial steaming – myth or magic? You’ll have to read on to find out!
What is Facial Steaming?
For those of you who are new to the concept, facial steaming is as straightforward as it sounds. It involves exposing the face to steam from hot water, which, in turn, is supposed to open up the pores, allowing it to release all the trapped gunk.
One could argue that it is basically a form of facial cleansing, albeit more unconventional but undeniably more natural. The biggest difference being, facial steaming only requires one thing – hot water (and, in some cases, some vitamins or essential oils depending on the spa or salon you go to!)
Now, let’s be clear: Facial steaming is NOT meant to replace facial cleansers or other skincare products. Rather, it helps detox the skin and prepare it for the rest of the beauty routine.
Is Steaming Your Face Good?
If it wasn’t already clear – yes, absolutely!
After all, there’s a reason why skin therapists and dermatologists include it as a necessary step in professional facials. It is a safe and natural way of cleansing the skin of unwanted impurities, thus ushering in a plethora of other benefits.
It was only until recently that portable facial steamers and DIY tutorials became popular for at-home use, which is likely what caused the unsafe techniques and horror stories that prompted people to speculate its effectiveness or safety.
That said, as skin experts, we ALWAYS advocate for safe and proper ways of performing beauty techniques. And we hate to break it to you DIY junkies – but when it comes to facial steaming, having it done by a professional is the best (and truthfully, only) route you should consider.
While it may seem like a simple process to do on your own, it involves hot, steaming water that not only (1) can burn your skin if not handled properly, but can also (2 cause worsen skin conditions (like rosacea or inflammation) if done too long.
However, if left to the professionals, facial steaming can do wonders for the skin! Allow us to break them down for you.
8 Benefits of Steaming Your Face
- Deep cleansing and detox
If you’re a big fan of hot baths and showers, then you know their reputation for cleansing the body of deep-seated impurities and dirt – that is, of course, second to the relaxation it gives the body. Well, the same can be said about facial steaming!
The steam from hot water opens up the pores and softens any dirt, oil, dead skin cells, bacteria, and other impurities that can build up over time. Basically put, it’s like treating your skin to a much-needed detox! And, in turn, preventing even bigger problems – which leads us to this next benefit:
- Anti-acne
As a result of this deep cleanse and purge, face steaming gets rid of trapped sebum and acne-causing bacteria, which are responsible for pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Just to be clear, steaming is by no means a one-and-done solution. Rather, it addresses certain triggers that could lead to inflammation and irritation, thus preventing future breakouts. That said, it is best done in tandem with other anti-acne solutions like cleansing and exfoliation, further equipping the skin against such problems.
- Deep hydration
This one’s pretty self-explanatory. Just as water hydrates the body, so does steam give the skin a much-needed hit of H20. You’ll immediately notice a softer, smoother, more plump texture after just a few minutes!
Now, keep in mind: There is a difference between moisturisation and hydration. While keeping the skin moisturised with face creams and lotions is important, keeping it hydrated is totally a different story, one that can only be satisfied by good, old fashioned water.
- Better blood flow
Facial steaming also increases circulation of blood throughout the skin, thus delivering more oxygen and ensuring healthier skin. All these things may be happening underneath, but trust us, there are results to back it up! Better blood flow nourishes the skin from the inside, appearing as a natural, healthy glow on the outside.
- Anti-aging
Yup, you heard that right! Who knew a little heat could help keep the skin youthful and radiant (pun intended)?
Increased blood flow is known to stimulate collagen and elastin production, two proteins responsible for our skin’s structure, flexibility, and resilience. Hence, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines!
- Skincare prep
On top of delivering direct benefits to the skin, facial steaming also primes, prepares, and opens up the skin to absorb other skin care products. This means even more benefits from your toners, serums, moisturisers, face masks, and so on. Basically put, the more, the merrier!
- Sinus congestion
Skin benefits aside, facial steaming also serves as a natural remedy for sinus congestion. The warm, moist water vapour helps clear the nasal airways from mucus, viruses, and other blockages, especially with the aid of additional herbs or essential oils like mint, eucalyptus, and bergamot.
- Soothing and relaxation
And the biggest bonus of all – a moment of much-needed pampering! Trust us – feeling that gentle warmth and soothing sensation of heat on your skin will instantly relax your senses and drown out your worries. Pair that with the calming ambiance of a spa or salon, and you have all you need for the ultimate self-care experience!
Is Facial Steaming Safe For Everyone?
Technically, facial steaming is a safe and natural process that can benefit everyone, especially those with oily skin and dry skin.
However, if you have sensitive skin, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, or similar inflammatory skin conditions, it may trigger redness as heat dilates blood vessels. In that case, make sure to let your aesthetician or dermatologist know beforehand. They may leave it out of the facial routine if needed.
Professional Steam Facials: The Best Alternative to DIY Facial Steaming
If you’re interested in trying out a facial steam session on your own, here’s a better (and safer!) alternative for you: Professional facials. After all, they were the original purveyors of this amazing concept!
Spas and beauty salons are known for their premium facial treatments that involve a comprehensive and curated skincare routine to deliver a slew of benefits for the skin. These include deep cleansing, moisturising, massaging, and facial steaming among many other skincare steps.
Here at Lovoir, our Janesce Holistic Facials offer all that and more!
We use plant-based skincare products that harness the power of medicinal herbs and flowers to heal the skin from the inside out. An important part of our facial is the use of the fragrant herbal steam to lock in moisture and hydrate the skin. This is coupled with a deep cleanse, gentle enzyme exfoliation, and a soothing mask and facial massage – all working together to cleanse, hydrate, soften, and rejuvenate the skin.
Ready to try it out yourself? Visit our website and book your appointment. If you have any more questions or perhaps want to learn about our other beauty treatments, you can also start by booking a consultation with our skin therapists.
Book a Janesce Facial here
Whatever the case may be, you can trust us to deliver only the best treatment plan and results tailor-fit for your specific skin condition and goals! Give us a call, and we’ll see you at the salon!
Visit our Beauty Salon & Day Spa at Lovoir The Crossing:
