An "integral" part of every facial and a rising DIY trend - but is it for you?
Facial steaming is part of what makes a facial feel so luxurious. The part where the pores "open" and the skin becomes dewy and invigorated. Sometimes aromatherapy is even mixed in for a true "ah..." moment. Read more to find out if it's for you...
Here are the basic steps that many estheticians are taught in their schooling:
- Cleanse.
- Consultation.
- Steam.
- Exfoliation.
- Extraction.
- Massage.
- Face Mask.
- Final Applications.
We're here to talk about Step 3: Steam.
Let's get this out of the way:
- Steaming does not open your pores. The pores do not open and close.
- Steaming is not beneficial for all skin types.
Big news: Sensitive, damaged, inflamed and sometimes dry and mature skin types should not steam. Though seemingly gentle, steam can irritate and further inflame these types.
Estheticians recommend steam for the oily-skinned and breakout-prone.
For these types, the benefits of steaming include:
- Increased circulation, which can help promote collagen and elastin.
- Helps release trapped sebum (skin oil) by loosening debris.
- Helps your skin better absorb skin care products
- It’s soothing.
- Helps with sinus congestion.
Talk to a trusted esthetician to get the scoop on your skin type, but also, use your senses. If you feel irritated after a conventional facial, your esti may have been taught to steam everyone! It's a bit of an epidemic. Trust your skin if it shows discomfort.
Does your skin like steam? Tell us + your skin type in the comments below!