While face steaming has long been a well-kept secret among dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts alike, the process has recently gained traction on social media. From Instagram to TikTok, Skincare Fanatics Swear by the Technology — But Does It Really Work?
Simply put, face steaming involves exposing the skin to hot steam from hot water. The basic method of steaming the face — exposing the skin to hot water, such as a sauna or a hot shower — has been commonplace across cultures for thousands of years. Now, with the advancement and advancement of beauty tools, celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Kate Hudson, Victoria Beckham and many more are using facial steamers at home. Next, we talk to the experts about skin care techniques and what you should know before buying an at-home facial steamer.
Facial steam, it turns out, increases blood circulation and opens up the skin’s pores—releasing built-up sebum, the natural oil that causes bacteria and acne. This simple technique can also help skin look younger and firmer as the steam increases blood flow and oxygen to the skin.
“With steam, the pores [and] The capillaries—tiny blood vessels in the skin—open up, rehydrating the skin and sinuses,” says Dr. Brandith Irwin, board-certified dermatologist and founder of SkinTour.com and MadisonMD Skincare. “Then, if you With an active serum like MadisonMD Skincare Niacinamide + Copper Serum, you’ll get more product absorption. ”
In addition to opening pores and fighting acne, facial steam provides intense hydration and boosts collagen and elasticity. However, experts warn that the steam should not be too hot – as this can permanently scar the skin – and people with certain skin types should not use the technique. “Heat can trigger or worsen certain skin conditions like rosacea, melasma, and eczema,” Dr. Tiffany J. Libby, board-certified dermatologist. However, it is safe for most people if you follow best practices:[Facial steaming] It’s great for oily, combination and normal skin types,” says Libby.
There are many ways to steam your face – in the shower or sauna, with a hot towel over a bowl of steaming water, and of course, with a face steamer. Dermatologists recommend buying a face steamer because it’s the most hygienic and safest way to incorporate steaming into your skincare routine—it will increase your skin’s hydration, firmness, and overall health. Most at-home products follow a similar procedure—fill the device with distilled water, press a button, and place your face in front of the steam.
“Before starting any facial, the first step should always be a thorough cleanse,” says Dr. Dennis Gross, board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare says. “During the treatment, hold the steamer 12 inches from your face to ensure the steam is evenly distributed. The steam should feel warm, but not hot. A few minutes of steam will loosen solid debris, cleanse the skin, and improve hydration.” Finish with your favorite serum and/or moisturizer while still moist for maximum hydration.”
Dermatologists recommend steaming the skin for at least five minutes, but no more than 20 minutes, for best results. “If you’re prone to oiliness, you can steam three to four times a week,” Gross advises. “Especially during the dry, winter or warm months [and] If dry or waxy buildup is present in large quantities, it is a wet month. ”
Adding a few drops of essential oils — such as lavender, geranium, or eucalyptus — to water can also provide additional benefits such as relaxation and conditioning. However, those with allergies or sensitivities should skip this step.
“I designed my steamer for my patients to simultaneously clean pores, moisturize the skin and effectively exfoliate in the comfort of their own home,” explains Gross. “Precise water pressure, optimum temperature and micro-steam for better penetration and improved post-treatment efficacy of all skin care products.”
“This easy-to-use and affordable face steamer gets the job done with ease,” explains Libby. “[It] Delivers a steady stream of steam, leaving skin feeling soft and refreshed. ”
Plum Beauty’s affordable steamer opens pores and helps detoxify skin while promoting hydration. Simply add water to the back of the lightweight container, and skin will experience a litany of benefits in no less than six minutes—hydration, radiance, cleansing.
This Hailey Bieber-approved steamer is on the pricier side, but it really lives up to the hype. Designed by luxury skincare expert Sarah Chapman, this steamer delivers expert results with nano-sized steam particles that help remove debris and excess oil to thoroughly cleanse skin.
With over 26,000 5-star ratings on Amazon, this full-size garment steamer produces negatively charged ionic particles that help effectively penetrate and cleanse the skin.
“Facial steam helps clean pores, boost circulation, and moisturize, soften, and soothe skin,” says Gross. “The steam increases circulation to the skin, which improves oxygen flow in the blood for an immediate glow after treatment.”
This portable product from Vanity Planet uses nano-sized steam particles to hydrate the skin and improve circulation and blood flow.
For an at-home spa experience, Conair’s Facial Sauna System uses a steady stream of gentle steam to promote healthy and hydrated skin. Complete with a facial and exfoliating brush, nose cone, and moisturizing sponge, the system has everything you need for a facial steam.
Those looking to splurge should check out Fancii’s Rivo Face Steamer. This home garment steamer has six care modes for specific skin concerns – Moisturizing, Conditioning & Firming, Elasticity and more.
Using ultra-fine steam particles to penetrate and replenish the skin, this home steamer is easy to use and comes with thermoregulation safety measures to ensure skin is not irritated in the process.
This option from Flawless by Finishing Touch combines all the must-haves of a facial steamer and more: a double-sided mirror, an easy-to-clean water tank, and a steady stream of steam that increases skin’s elasticity and moisture.
“All skin types benefit from hydration and circulation,” explains Owen. “It’s just that those with very dry skin will need a stronger moisturizer afterwards, while those with oilier skin may need [to] Wipe the skin with makeup off first. “
Affordable and lightweight, this facial steamer helps remove any built-up debris and increases skin’s moisture and elasticity.
This portable multi-steamer delivers plenty of steam and moisture to the skin, a dermatologist-recommended asset, especially during the colder months.