Steam has been long been recognized as the key to helping open pores, soften skin, increase circulation and allow better penetration of various serums and moisturizers. As an esthetician, I find that steam is essential in each and every facial I perform for my clients. I’ll give you a little trick of the trade – you don’t have to visit your local spa to enjoy the benefits of a good facial steam. In fact, you can do your own mini steam at home using just a few items.

A DIY Facial Steam for Every Skin Type

Just be sure you start with freshly washed skin and don’t steam for more than 10 minutes as over steaming can have the opposite effects on your skin! You’ll need a pot of boiling water, heat safe bowl (ceramic/glass) and towel (large enough to cover your shoulders, head and bowl). Choose the correct essential oil or herb combination from below that fits your skin type:

Rosemary & Chamomile Steam for Mature/Aging Skin:

After bringing a pot of water to a boil add:

• 1 tablespoon of rosemary herbs (fresh or dried)
• 1 tablespoon of chamomile flowers (fresh or dried)
• 1 drop of frankincense essential oil

Transfer to a heat safe bowl and place on flat countertop. Immediately drape a towel over your face, shoulders, and bowl, keeping your face about 10-18 inches from the steam.

Enjoy 5-10 minutes of steam and then follow with a mask, serum or moisturizer while your skin is still damp.

Tea Tree & Basil Steam for Oily/Acne Prone Skin:

After bringing a pot of water to a boil add:

• 3 drops Melaleuca/tea tree essential oil
• a few fresh basil leaves

Transfer to a heat safe bowl and place on flat countertop. Immediately drape a towel over your face, shoulders, and bowl, keeping your face about 10-18 inches from the steam.

Enjoy 5-10 minutes of steam and then follow with a mask, serum or moisturizer while your skin is still damp.

Geranium & Lavender Steam for Norman/Combination Skin:

After bringing a pot of water to a boil add:

• 1 tablespoon of lavender (fresh or dried)
• 3 drops geranium essential oil

Transfer to a heat safe bowl and place on flat countertop. Immediately drape a towel over your face, shoulders, and bowl, keeping your face about 10-18 inches from the steam.

Enjoy 5-10 minutes of steam and then follow with a mask, serum or moisturizer while your skin is still damp.

Have you ever tried a facial steam, do you have any combinations you would love to share?

Photos by Ana Stanciu

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