The benefits of face steaming won’t be news to anyone who’s ever been to a spa. It has become a popular trend in recent years as people look for ways to improve their skin without harsh chemicals or expensive treatments. The routine has been proven to offer many benefits to young or aged skin. It’s a process that has been used to rejuvenate the skin for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. But how often should you steam your face?
Typically, you should steam your face 1-3 times per week, depending on your skin type. The ideal steaming time is 5-10 minutes. Overdoing it could lead to excessive dryness or oiliness. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about facial steaming.
What Are the Benefits of Facial Steaming?
- Face steaming allows you to open up your pores and eliminate all the dirt, sebum, and impurities that have accumulated over time. This deep cleanse can do wonders for your skin, leaving you with a radiant and healthy complexion.
- In addition to cleansing the skin, facial steaming softens hard sebum and impurities for easy removal by exfoliation or by using an ultrasonic skin scrubber. This can help to reduce the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads.
- It can also help improve circulation and increase blood flow to the face, giving you a natural glow. The increased blood flow also allows your skin to better absorb moisture and other products you apply to your face.
- Face steaming is a great way to relax and de-stress. The warmth and the steam can help to soothe and relax your muscles, making it the perfect way to unwind after a long day.
How Often Should You Steam Your Face?
The benefits of face steaming won’t happen with one session. You must be consistent to reap the rewards, but how often should you steam your face?
Face steaming can be done once to three times per week, depending on your skin type. That will be enough to clean and open your pores without stripping your skin of its natural oils.
For Oily Skin
For Dry Skin
In general, dry skin is more delicate than oily skin, and as a result, it cannot tolerate frequent steaming. So face steaming should be done once to two times a week. The steam will help open your pores and allow your skin to absorb moisture more effectively.
For Acne
Acne-prone skin can benefit from face steaming once a week. The steam will help open your pores and release the build-up of oil, dirt, and bacteria that can cause breakouts. If your pores are very clogged, you can steam your face twice per week.
How Long Should You Steam Your Face?
The time will depend on how the skin responds to the steam. Begin with 5 minutes and see how your skin reacts. If it feels dry or tight, increase the time to 7 minutes.
It’s fine to continue steaming for up to 10 minutes if you feel good after 7 minutes. If you have sensitive skin, it’s advisable to start with a shorter steaming time and work your way up.
If you’re using a face steamer, follow the instructions that come with it. Most face steamers will have a timer to tell you when your steaming time is up.
How to Steam Your Face at Home?
You don’t need to go to a spa to enjoy the benefits of face steaming. You can do it at home by yourself with just a few basic items.
What You'll Need:
- A bowl of hot water
- A clean towel
- Essential oils (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a bowl with hot water and set it on a stable surface.
- Add a few drops of essential oil to the water, if desired.
- Position yourself so that you are leaning over the bowl, and drape a towel over your head to trap in the steam.
- Keep your face about 6 inches above the bowl.
- Steam your face for 5-10 minutes.
What to Do After Steaming Your Face?
Taking care of your skin after steaming is necessary. You don’t want to undo all the good work you’ve done.
Once you are done steaming your face, it is important to cleanse your skin. You can do this by using a gentle cleanser. Gently massage the cleanser into your skin in a circular motion, then rinse it with lukewarm water. You can also use an ultrasonic skin spatula after steaming to help expel oil, dirt, and debris from your pores.
After cleansing, you will want to apply a moisturizer. This will help to hydrate your skin and keep it looking healthy. Choose a moisturizer that is right for your skin type and apply it to your face.
What Are The Disadvantages of Steaming Your Face?
Although face steaming can have many benefits, there are also some potential disadvantages associated with this practice. These can include:
- Skin redness or rosacea: If you have sensitive skin, steaming your face can cause redness, flushing, or aggravate rosacea.
- Dry skin: Steam can strip away the natural oils from your skin, leaving it feeling dry and tight.
- Broken capillaries: If you have thin, delicate skin, steaming your face can cause broken capillaries (vessels) to become visible.
- Burning: If the steam is too hot, it can burn your skin. The same could happen if you don’t follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using a facial steamer.
- Acne: Although face steaming can help open up pores and remove dirt and oil, it can also backfire by causing pores to become clogged and leading to breakouts.
FAQs
When Should You Steam Your Face?
The best time to steam your face is after cleaning it; it should be the second step in your skincare routine.
Is it OK to steam your face every day?
No. Even though face steaming has lots of benefits, steaming every day can be harsh on the skin and end up causing problems, especially if you have a skin condition.
Should I wash my face after steaming?
Yes, you should always wash your face with cool water after steaming to remove any dirt or impurities that may have been loosened during the process.
When should I not steam my face?
You should not steam your face if you have open wounds, cuts, or scrapes.
Is steaming good for acne?
Yes, steaming can be beneficial for acne-prone skin as it helps open up the pores and clear out any dirt or sebum that may be causing breakouts.
Conclusion
Steaming your face can offer many benefits, including cleansing the skin, improving circulation, and relieving congestion. You can steam your face twice a week to enjoy these benefits. Be sure to cleanse your face afterward and apply a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Remember to apply sunscreen if you are going to be in the sun.